Everyday Life in Xiqiao Town

Chang Xiao had been frail since childhood, and his parents died early, so he grew up eating meals provided by the townspeople.

The abbot of Baolin Temple had once read his fortune and declared that his life would be full of hardship and cut short. Still, he had managed to grow up, stumbling along every step of the way.

The Chang family used to run an herbal medicine shop. Chang Xiao had picked up a thing or two just by being around it from a young age, so he could treat the townspeople's minor ailments and earn a little pocket change.

He was gentle by nature and greeted everyone with a smile.

He should have made a good husband, but his frail health meant no one showed any interest when he reached marriageable age.

Lin Zhouhui was the former young master of the Five Flavors Restaurant in Xiqiao Town. Why former? Because his father was a gambling addict, and after selling the family business to pay his gambling debts, he died.

He had only two wishes in life: first, to buy back his family business; second, to find his good friend Chang Xiao a wife who suited him.

The first was easy. The second was as hard as climbing to the heavens, because Lin Zhouhui's standards were simply too high.

She had to be able to look after Chang Xiao, know how to cook, and know how to earn money. If she was too gentle, she'd get bullied; if she was too feisty, she'd bully Chang Xiao.

No matter how many candidates he considered, he couldn't find anyone who suited him. One day, Lin Zhouhui saw his reflection in the water jar he was using to wash his face.

Why couldn't it be him?

He was handsome, had looked after Chang Xiao since they were little, was a great cook, and knew how to make money. Why couldn't it be him?

As countless matchmakers shook their heads and left the Chang family courtyard, Lin Zhouhui slipped inside. He found Chang Xiao covering his mouth as he coughed, his brow slightly furrowed.

"Xiaoxiao, what do you think of me?"

Chang Xiao's brow relaxed. He gently patted Lin Zhouhui on the head. "You're such a fool."

P.S. 1. A cozy, everyday-life story, not a husband-and-wife role reversal.

2. The shou is very frail. I just love stories about sickly beauties.

Theme: Keep your feet on the ground while reaching for the stars