Whatever Old Zhou was like in his youth, the man he was now seemed somewhat somber. He didn't speak much, and the few words he did say often carried an uncomfortable tone, as if he were some kind of leader.
Zhou Li and Zhu Shuang were used to it.
Generally, Zhou Li wasn't keen on interacting with him. Zhu Shuang would superficially indulge him, but in reality, the words went in one ear and out the other.
Old Zhou was fully aware of this, but he, too, had grown accustomed to it. This had become their family's way of life—no right or wrong, no good or bad, just living day by day, and that was perfectly fine.
However, Zhu Shuang's sister was not used to this.
So, before every visit from Zhu Shuang's sister, Aunt Jiang would give Old Zhou a few reminders. She told him to talk more and, preferably, show some concern for the girl. This was to make her feel that this uncle was 'quite amiable' and prevent any reluctance about future visits.
