The next day, Li Ye got up early and went to pay respects at the graves with Grandpa and dad. Then the whole family prepared to return to the capital.
Before setting off, Li Ye called Wang Jianqiang.
"Qiangzi, we've finished visiting the graves. What's going on over there?"
"Brother, I'm almost done here too. We'll leave together in a little while."
"Alright, then let's meet at the west side of town at nine thirty."
When they had come from the capital this time, Wang Jianqiang had told Li Ye that they would head back together after visiting the graves and would not stay in Qingshui County for the New Year.
Although, according to the customs of Dongshan, Wang Jianqiang's behavior would draw criticism for being "unfilial," given the state of his relationship with his family, there was no point even mentioning filial piety.
The phrase "a kind mother and filial son" had been passed down for many years too; it was tradition as well. Besides, Wang Jianqiang had the excuse that "work comes first," which gave the old Wang family a way down the slope.
But Li Ye and the others waited at the west side of town until nine forty without seeing Wang Jianqiang, so Li Ye called him.
The moment the call connected, Li Ye heard a woman cursing, followed by Huang Suwen chattering away as she argued.
Li Ye said helplessly, "What is it, Qiangzi? Is your wife fighting with your mother again?"
Wang Jianqiang said dully from the other end, "It's nothing, Brother. Why don't you go on ahead? I'll catch up with you later."
"Alright, then."
Even an upright official could not settle family disputes. Li Ye could not say much about the Wang family's affairs, but just as he was about to hang