Tang Qiyue was completely unaware of everything happening back home; she had been incredibly busy every day.
Ever since the chili sauce incident, her cooking skills had become widely known. People constantly came to her for advice, and there was a steady stream of visitors in her courtyard. Because of this, she had no opportunity to do anything secretly, which troubled her greatly.
Fortunately, she maintained a good attitude. Since she couldn't use her space for now, she decided to focus on building good relationships with the people in the family compound.
During this time, she became quite familiar with many military wives. They even gave her various seeds, which she planted throughout the vegetable garden in her courtyard.
Every day, groups of them went to the beach to harvest oysters and collect shellfish, occasionally catching fish and shrimp. Sometimes they were lucky enough to find large quantities of sea urchins, ribbonfish, kelp, and jellyfish.
Life was fulfilling.
Zhan Zeye was just as busy as he had warned. He barely had time to rest and couldn't return home every day. Even when he did, he could only stay briefly—hugging and kissing Tang Qiyue before rushing off again.
After a week, aside from the occasional visits from Tang Xiuyuan and Bai Xu—which drew attention—Tang Qiyue found island life quite pleasant.
On the day they were allowed to leave the island to shop, Tang Qiyue and Xu Qiuju realized they were missing many supplies, so both volunteered to go.
"Sister-in-law, thank goodness you came with me, otherwise I wouldn't know what to do!"
Xu Qiuju said gratefully as she handed her older child to the school teacher and watched the children walk away.
Tang Qiyue waved her hand. "It's nothing. We were just bringing the children here. But only your eldest goes to school—it must be exhausting taking care of the younger ones every day."
Xu Qiuju wiped her eyes. No mother could easily bear to be separated from her child—it was simply out of necessity.
"I heard from Hu Peng that a childcare class will be set up on the island to help look after the younger children. They're just waiting for teachers. Once teachers arrive, it will begin!"
Tang Qiyue had heard of this before but thought it wouldn't happen. It seemed the real issue was a shortage of teachers.
She herself could have taken the role—she had a steady temperament and a high school education—but she had other plans.
The two walked hand in hand toward the supply and marketing cooperative.
Xu Qiuju wanted to buy snacks, candy, malted milk powder, and small household items for her children.
Tang Qiyue had plenty of money. Zhan Zeye had given her many coupons before she left, more than enough for her needs.
They used up most of their coupons and bought many items. The goods were stored at the cooperative, and the canteen staff would later help transport them to the boat.
Afterward, they went to the market, where local villagers traded goods.
Both women wanted to buy chicks and ducklings. The island had plenty of small fish and shrimp, which could be used as feed.
They found a stall and, being cautious, didn't buy too many—afraid the chicks might not survive.
Each bought ten chicks and six ducklings. Seeing their purchase, the old vendor even gave them cages to carry them.
They also bought vegetables and fruits, which were scarce on the island.
With their baskets full, they returned to the dock, where their earlier purchases had already been loaded.
After waiting for the others, they boarded the boat to return.
Fewer people were seasick this time—not because they had improved, but because the sea was calm and Old Li was steering at a slower pace.
The atmosphere on the boat was relaxed and cheerful.
When they returned, Tang Qiyue was about to carry her things home when she saw Zhan Zeye waiting at the dock.
"Aren't you training today?" she asked, surprised.
Zhan Zeye had been so busy all week that she hadn't expected him to show up.
The other military wives looked on enviously—none of their husbands had come to pick them up.
Zhan Zeye took the items from her hands. "I just came to check on things and thought I'd walk you home."
Tang Qiyue accepted the explanation.
They didn't talk much on the way—she was tired, and he seemed to be thinking about something.
Once home, Tang Qiyue didn't rest immediately. Instead, she checked on the chicks and ducklings. Seeing they were fine, she felt relieved.
"I'll cut some bamboo later and build them a coop," Zhan Zeye said.
Though he didn't fully understand why she wanted to raise them, he followed his usual principle: don't interfere, but help where possible.
Tang Qiyue nodded. "If needed, I can handle it myself. For now, they'll stay in cages. There are weasels and wild monkeys here—I'm worried they'll get eaten."
After chatting briefly, Zhan Zeye suddenly said, "I received a telegram today about your family."
Tang Qiyue froze.
She hadn't expected news to reach the island, but considering his position, it made sense.
"Was the Tang family raided? Or are they all dead?" she asked calmly.
Zhan Zeye rubbed his nose, surprised by her reaction.
"It's not that serious. Your father donated most of the family's wealth, so things didn't escalate that far. But because of overseas connections, your family will likely remain under scrutiny."
Tang Qiyue vaguely remembered this outcome.
Without her death and with Zhan Zeye's involvement, it was already a miracle the Tang family hadn't suffered worse.
"As long as they're alive, it's fine," she said indifferently.
Her response surprised him. He had even considered helping them if she were worried.
"Don't help them," she added. "If they don't suffer a little, they'll never learn. Also, I heard Tang Chunlan is in a nearby educated youth settlement. What if she regrets it and comes looking for you?"