Before dawn, Li Xiu got up quietly. He left the room, careful not to wake his wife.
When he got to the kitchen, he saw the back basket his wife had packed for him the day before and smiled to himself. He knew she doted on him. After washing up and making breakfast, he was just about to eat so he could head into the mountains when Zhou Lian walked in, rubbing her eyes.
"Bao'er, why are you up? It's not even light out. Did I wake you?" Li Xiu asked gently, pulling Zhou Lian into his embrace.
Zhou Lian rolled her eyes. 'Honestly, this man. How could I possibly sleep, knowing he's going into the mountains!'
"It's nothing. I was awake, so I got up. You should eat something first. You'll be heading into the mountains soon!"
"Then eat with me, Bao'er!" Li Xiu held Zhou Lian and wouldn't let go. 'This trip into the mountains will probably take a few days. Every extra moment I can hold her counts. I won't get to see my wife for days.'
