The last batch of down jackets was exchanged by a few female classmates who came from afar for two hams and a half-new bicycle.
The yard, piled high with fabric, was finally emptied.
Sister-in-law Liu cut the last thread and let out a long sigh of relief.
"It's finally done."
"Yeah, these past two months, I've done more work than I have in my entire life."
"But we've earned a lot!"
A few military wives chattered and laughed, their faces filled with the joy of harvest.
Lin Wan Yi clapped her hands, quieting the yard.
"Ladies, thank you for your hard work."
She paused.
"Starting tomorrow, our little courtyard workshop will be temporarily closed."
The laughter in the yard came to an abrupt halt.
Sister-in-law Liu's wrinkles stiffened.
"Stop... stop working?"
"Why, Wanyi? Weren't we doing well?"
Zhang Family's Sister was also anxious, rubbing her hands fiercely on her apron.
"Is it something we did wrong? Tell us, we'll change!"
"Yeah, Wanyi, you can't leave us!"
