Shen Funian (the younger sister-in-law) is so annoying, and I think that’s intentional. She’s loud, rude, and constantly puts down Wen Jiayue for giving birth to a girl. But her guessing that Wen Jiayue must have a lover because she stopped caring about the brother is such a petty and childish leap. It does add conflict, though. The part where she throws the red envelope and Wen Jiayue kicks it off the bed is petty satisfaction at its finest. I wanted to cheer.
Overall, the start is solid. A great hook, a likeable but flawed MC, and a clear sense of direction. The rough translation and pacing hiccups are there, but the core idea is strong enough to keep me clicking "next chapter".
I really appreciate the detail of him immediately getting her a room ready even after being so rude. You can tell that underneath all the bickering, he actually cares. The way he tells Song Steward to bring her extra breakfast because he knows she hasn't eaten is a small but very telling moment.
Xiao Yan's character is perfectly written for her age. She's not annoyingly precocious, but she's also not a prop. Her actions—offering food, asking questions, crying—all feel age-appropriate and endearing, which makes Lu Qing's attachment to her totally understandable.
Overall, this start hooked me. It has strong emotional stakes, a unique premise, and a heroine who uses her brain. The world feels gritty and real, and the fantasy elements are introduced gradually. I'd say this is a solid opening that promises an engaging story ahead.