Lucky's Secret
Meanwhile, Belle and April were happily playing in Jack and Jill's Room, completely unaware that a pair of mischievous hands was about to cause trouble.
April had a bandage wrapped around her head, and Jill Evans fussed over her, even dropping a few golden beans in her worry, which sent everyone into fits of laughter.
"Belle, are you going to the fields again tomorrow?" April, still shaken from today's events, leaned on Belle with a look of dependence.
"Of course! Our mushrooms are at a critical stage—just half a month until they're ready. Mr. Li and the Serenity Vegetarian Bistro have already placed their orders, so I have to keep a close eye on things. We can't afford any mistakes." Belle smiled, patting April's hand. "Madam Lily trusts us so much, and she's always so kind. I have to work even harder so I won't let her down."
April grinned, "I want to help Madam Lily too!"
Belle affectionately tapped April's nose. "That'll have to wait until you're a bit older. For now, just focus on getting better. Madam Lily even gave you time off—she really cares about you!"
"April, have some of these!" Silverbean stuffed a handful of red dates into April's hand. "Sister Lily says red dates are good for your blood. You lost so much, you need to eat lots to get strong again!"
"Okay, I'll eat them! Silverbean, you have some too!" April giggled, popping a date into her mouth and then offering one to Silverbean.
The two children laughed and played together, and Silverbean wrapped some dates in a handkerchief, announcing she’d bring them to Lily tomorrow.
Lily Evans lifted the curtain and entered, arms full of newly purchased fabric.
Lucky was up to something sneaky, and when he saw Lily come in, he quickly hid whatever was in his hands behind his back.
Lily burst out laughing, set down her things, and walked over. "What are you hiding? Afraid I'll catch you?"
"N-nothing..." Lucky scratched his head, cheeks blazing red as he shuffled backward.
"Oh? What's so secret you can't show me?" Lily was even more curious, pressing forward until Lucky was backed into the corner of the bed. "Come on, show me what's in your hand."
"N-no, really, it's nothing, Lily." Lucky's face was flushed as he shook his head with all his might.
"So you've learned to lie now, huh!" Lily put on a stern face, scaring Lucky into tossing his hidden stash away. "Lily, I didn't mean to trick you, please don't be angry!"
With a loud clatter, several books hit the floor. Lily picked them up, her eyes going wide in disbelief!
They were those kinds of illustrated guides, complete with notes scribbled in the margins—someone had clearly been studying them with great dedication!
"Where did these come from!" Lily was torn between laughter and exasperation—Lucky had actually learned to sneak a peek at those sorts of books behind her back!
"B-Brother Zhang Mu gave them to me. Lily, don't be mad at Brother Zhang Mu—it was me who asked him for them." Lucky hung his head and tugged on Lily's sleeve, sniffling. "I'm not very smart, so I wanted to get a head start. I wanted to learn how to have babies, so I wouldn't let you down... Please don't be mad, okay?"
Lily was so moved she wanted to laugh and cry at the same time. She ruffled Lucky’s hair. "You silly goose, you’re already doing your best. But next time, ask me instead of sneaking around!"
Lucky nodded, eyes shining with hope. "Lily, will you teach me?"
Lily grinned mischievously. "I’ll teach you, but only if you promise not to peek at those books anymore!"
Lucky broke into a big smile. "I promise! I’ll only learn from you, Lily."
Belle and April watched the whole exchange, giggling behind their hands. Silverbean chimed in, "Lily, can we learn too?"
Lily burst out laughing. "You little rascals! You’re too young for that. When you’re older, I’ll teach you everything."
Everyone in Jack and Jill's Room erupted into laughter, the air filled with joy and warmth.
Outside, the spring breeze carried the sound of their laughter far and wide, promising happiness for days to come.