They worked until dark before heading home, where they dug another two loads.
In the twilight, Black Dog ran up to greet them, barking. As they drew closer, the grunting of pigs and the clucking of chickens and ducks grew louder. These familiar, bustling sounds welcomed them into the courtyard. Like weary birds returning to their nest, they felt their worries melt away, replaced by an immense sense of peace and serenity.
Under the dim yellow light of an oil lamp, Mrs. Yang set out dinner, and the family ate and chatted together.
But enough about the cozy scene at the Zheng Family's home. After Li Changxing returned, he did as planned and asked Huang Dagunzi's mother—Grandma Huang—to inquire about Meizi's feelings on Li Changming's behalf. In truth, this meant asking for Gou Dan's mother's opinion.
He didn't dare to act on his own, so he found Li Changming and told him his plan.
