The dusk in the courtyard is more fragrant than the New Year.
White smoke billows from Sister in law Liu's chimney.
A big bowl on the square table inside the house is steaming.
It's old hen soup that's been stewing for two whole hours, with a layer of golden oil floating on top.
"Dear, drink the soup."
Sister in law Liu pushed the bowl in front of her husband.
Her husband's injured leg was propped on a stool; as he looked at the bowl of soup, his Adam's apple bobbed up and down twice.
"Is... is the whole chicken in here?"
"Indeed it is."
Sister in law Liu untied her apron, her face glowing red.
"Wanyi gave it, said it's a deposit. As long as I do a good job, next week there'll be a pound of pork belly."
Her husband picked up the bowl and took a big gulp, the heat made him gasp, yet he couldn't bear to spit it out.
"A good person... she is our family's living savior."
...
The courtyard next door.
"Bang!"
Aunt Wang slammed her chopsticks on the table.
