Time spent with the children always flies by quickly. As soon as noon arrives, the children scatter to return to their homes for lunch. In the afternoon, not all of them come back, because the good weather means they are often up in the mountains collecting herbs. The older kids help with work in the fields, leaving only the younger ones to continue playing with He Zhilan at the Niu Family's place.
At noon, He Zhilan ate with the Niu Family. Meals in the village were just as simple as the ones back in He Zhilan's hometown—very plain. Like ordinary farmers, meat was only seen during holidays, celebrations, or when guests visited. However, river fish was common on every household's dining table, much like how cicada larvae would occasionally show up during the summer.
Niu's father was just saying how it felt like someone was missing in the house ever since He Teng left, when suddenly a shadow appeared outside the courtyard gate and pushed it open.
"Zhilan! Uncle, Aunt!"
