It was evident that Liu Chunsheng’s love for Tongtong was driven by a desire to protect his beloved grandson, which explained his stern expression and constant contemplation of ways to ensure Tongtong's safety.
"Dad, that incident happened so long ago. Please don't worry anymore. Tongtong will be fine," Liu Yifeng said, understanding that his father's anxiety stemmed from Tongtong's impending start at school, placing the child outside his immediate care.
Liu Chunsheng scoffed at his son's words, "Yes, you're not worried. You only worry about your vegetables. They still haven't found out who secretly photographed you. The heat from the scandal is gradually dying down, and there's still no resolution. Doesn't this just give bad people more opportunities to do evil? Plus, Tongtong is going to school, which makes me even more uneasy. I think we should postpone Tongtong's schooling. Besides, our Tongtong is very clever; she doesn't necessarily need to go to school."
Liu Yifeng realized his father's underlying intention was to prevent Tongtong from attending school. "Dad, if you're going to be so opposed to Tongtong going to school, I'm starting to think you hired someone to orchestrate this whole incident just to stop her from attending."
Liu Yifeng was only joking. He knew his father well. While his father doted on his grandson, he had his limits and wouldn't stoop to such underhanded tactics.
"You brat, you dare joke with your old man now? I'll beat you to death!" Hearing Liu Yifeng's words, Liu Chunsheng became enraged and grabbed a broom nearby, swinging it at him.
Perhaps it had been too long since he had experienced such "torture," but for a moment, he didn't react and took a solid hit from the broom.
"Dad, I was wrong, I was wrong, I admit it! I'm so old, and you're still hitting me." It was like an ingrained family tradition. Liu Yifeng scrambled around the yard, dodging the blows.
Liu Chunsheng couldn't sleep that night because of this matter, and Liu Yifeng also remained sleepless. It seemed that he truly felt the seriousness of the issue if it remained unresolved.
With the introduction of organic chili peppers, the greenhouse business became busy again.
"Yifeng, I think we're a bit short-handed. Do you think we should recruit some more talent to help us?" Not only was Liu Yifeng very busy, but Lu Fei was also swamped.
When Lu Fei mentioned this, Liu Yifeng agreed that they needed help.
"I was thinking the same thing, but I'm not entirely comfortable with outsiders. I'll go talk to Third Uncle later and see if we can integrate his crayfish farm with the greenhouses. That way, he can help out with the greenhouses in his spare time."
Since the techniques for raising crayfish were already well-established, he didn't just want Liu Chasheng to be proficient in crayfish farming. He also hoped he could gain some knowledge about greenhouses, which would benefit the entire village.
Lu Fei nodded in agreement, "Yes, I think that's a good idea. If Third Uncle also learns about organic vegetable cultivation, he could even start another company."
He felt that Liu Yifeng always thought one step ahead in such matters.
Since the issue of insufficient manpower had been raised, Lu Fei didn't linger and began making arrangements.
"Yifeng, you've come at the perfect time! I was planning to find you. You won't believe how much profit I've made from the crayfish supplier you introduced me to. Suddenly, these crayfish fry aren't enough. If you have time, can you get me some more?"
Liu Chasheng's happiness was palpable; he had clearly made a good profit. Liu Yifeng was also pleased to see those around him doing well.
"Third Uncle, don't worry. I came to see you today precisely to ask if you're interested in organic vegetable farming. We're short-handed at the moment, and your crayfish business is well-established, requiring less of your attention. You could come and help me out."
Liu Yifeng stated it as a certainty, not a request. He was proposing an opportunity to earn more money, not asking for a job, so Liu Chasheng was more than willing.
His eyes lit up. "Really, Yifeng? You truly are my nephew! You think of your Third Uncle when there's a chance to make money. Don't worry, I don't need to be here much anymore. I trust your Third Aunt to look after things. When would be a convenient time for me to come?"
He presumed that with the increased production of vegetables, they were indeed short on staff. Liu Chasheng knew Liu Yifeng had helped them a lot, and he was very grateful that Liu Yifeng was still thinking of him.
"The sooner the better, Third Uncle. It depends on your schedule. If there's nothing pressing here, you can start helping at the greenhouse tomorrow."
Liu Yifeng checked the time. The cultivation of organic chili peppers didn't require much attention, but it was good to have someone overseeing it, especially since the technology wasn't fully mature yet, and he felt a bit worried. Moreover, his Third Uncle had experience watching the crayfish grow from infancy, so he would definitely be able to handle this task.
"Alright, I have nothing urgent to attend to. Don't worry, Yifeng, Third Uncle will study diligently and will be honored to help you solve a problem."
A benevolent smile appeared on Third Uncle's honest face.
"Oh, by the way, Yifeng, how is Tongtong doing?"
Then, as if remembering something, he hesitantly asked.
"It's just some media buzz, Third Uncle. You don't need to worry. I'll handle it. Tongtong is very safe," Liu Chasheng said. Although he didn't follow gossip news, he had heard some of it.
Neighbors would occasionally ask about it, and everyone liked Tongtong. They were also aware of Liu Yifeng's contributions to the village, so they were genuinely concerned.
"That's good, then. I imagine your father must be losing sleep and appetite. Sigh, someone must be jealous. How despicable and shameless, to even investigate a child's affairs."
Liu Chasheng spat disdainfully. He loathed people who resorted to underhanded tactics.
"Third Uncle, it's all in the past. I'll resolve it, so don't worry too much. I have other matters to attend to, so I'll be going now."
He had intended to go straight home, but on his way, he received a text message from Yun Duoer asking to meet.
Since she had proactively reached out, it was likely related to Tongtong's situation. Meeting would be beneficial.
"Aren't you afraid of being photographed near your home?" Yun Duoer told him to drive directly to the underground parking lot, suggesting it might be the only safe place for their meeting.