Ye Chenghai and the others watched enviously. They wanted malt milk and instant noodles too, but after sneaking a glance at their own mothers, they could only sigh inwardly. They would have to rely on themselves after all.
Thinking of the half bucket or more of seafood they had just caught, he felt motivated again, brimming with energy.
But Third Uncle had already left, so anything good they found would have to be handed over. Ye Chenghai thought it wasn't worth it. He couldn't let his mother get all the benefits!
After a whispered discussion, they decided they should go home for lunch first, then come back out when Third Uncle did. They couldn't work for their mothers for nothing!
But Ye Chenghai was afraid of getting scolded, so he kept signaling to Ye Chengjiang and Ye Chenghe with his eyes. Neither of them was stupid enough to volunteer for a scolding.
The three stood there at an impasse, making faces at one another, until Ye Eldest Sister-in-Law noticed and let loose another torrent of abuse.
Bracing himself, Ye Chenghai said quickly, "Mom, Chenghe said he's hungry and wants to go home for lunch!"
A little brother's greatest use was taking the blame at a crucial moment!
Ye Chenghe stared at Ye Chenghai in disbelief, his eyes wide. "It was obviously you..."
Ye Eldest Sister-in-Law immediately exploded, glaring at Ye Chenghe. "Eat, eat, eat! All you think about is eating! You've barely helped pick up anything, and all you want is food. Fill a whole basin for me first!"
Ye Chenghe meekly agreed, feeling wronged, but he still resented it. When Ye Chenghai crouched down, he gave him a shove, sending him sprawling into the water.
Well, now neither of them would let it go. The brothers immediately began wrestling