The call came into the brigade headquarters in Da Liushu Village.
At this time of year, everyone was holed up at home for the winter, though of course, there were always some who couldn't sit still and would gather outside to chat.
Suddenly, a voice came over the brigade's public announcement system.
"Shitou's mother, there's a call for you from Shitou. Please come to the headquarters immediately."
The announcement repeated twice, then went silent.
Shitou's mother heard it at home. Leaning on her stick, she hurried out of the house and rushed toward the headquarters.
Someone saw her and remarked, "Shitou really hit the jackpot following the He Family's Third Son. He got married, and I hear he even bought a house in Beijing City."
"Exactly. That He Family's Third Son doesn't know how to look after his own. Our families are distant relatives, you know, but you don't see him offering us any of these good opportunities."
