On the way, Uncle Xie had to make a detour into town. Worried that Ji Huan might be in a hurry, he asked if she wanted to catch a ride back first with someone else from their village.
Having just earned some silver, Ji Huan needed to purchase a few things. Her original plan was to return to Xie Ditch and go to town with Widow Xie, which would allow them to head straight back to Dafeng Village after their shopping.
But seeing the sun already slanting toward the mountainside, she worried there wouldn't be enough time and suggested going into town with him.
After spending half the day with him, she could tell Uncle Xie was a steady and honest man, so she wasn't worried about flashing her new wealth.
Once they arrived in town, Uncle Xie went to the blacksmith's to get some farm tools repaired, while Ji Huan headed for North Street.
