Because Shi Yi had caught a wild boar a few days ago and had not shared even a scrap of it with anyone else in the village, and because the savory scent of meat drifted from his dilapidated little shack from time to time, everyone in the village was envious.
Consequently, no one gave Wang Zhijiao a pleasant look. They all glared at her with furrowed brows, casting sidelong glances and muttering unkind words. Of course, many men also stared at Wang Zhijiao, their thoughts wandering. Though she was thin, she was truly beautiful. Yet, others continued to insult her: "A vase that looks good but is useless. Can she work the fields? Can she turn a millstone? That kid Shi Yi is a total fool. What use is there in bringing home a woman who doesn't have the strength to truss a chicken?"
Wang Zhijiao had been subjected to countless cold remarks throughout her exile. She had remained unmoved when people spat at her on the official roads, so she paid their taunts no mind. She kept her eyes fixed ahead, her expression icy as she passed through the crowd, until she reached Granny Chen’s house. Before she could even knock, she heard Granny Chen complaining inside.
Chapter 56