Chen Xiaoqiu was hinting at something.
All I could do was send a wry smile.
I hoped I could get an answer, too.
Maybe it was because of that thought. After lunch, I lay down on the bed. The moment I did, I almost immediately sank into a dream.
At first, there was darkness—or rather, no scenery at all.
Then I heard a voice, somewhat indistinct, like a thought, or someone murmuring to themselves.
"...Xiaobao, you're so clever! You did so well on this exam. What reward do you want? Grandpa will get it for you."
"...If you want to learn, go sign up. Grandpa will pay the tuition."
"...Here, go have fun with your classmates. Don't tell your parents. Keep the rest of the money for yourself."
"...College tuition is that expensive? It's all right. I still have savings."
"...Don't skimp while you're in college. Eat well and go out with your classmates. Don't worry about the money. Your mother gives you spending money, and I'll give you five hundred yuan every month, too."
I gradually recognized the voice as Xu Guangzong's. These must have been things Xu Guangzong had said to Xu Guangming.
Was Xu Guangzong the subject of this dream?
As I wondered about it, a long silence passed, and then I saw Xu Guangzong.
He looked younger than he had when I'd met him. His black hair was streaked with white, and the age spots and wrinkles on his face were much less pronounced.
A rough hand passed over the top of my head.
Xu Guangzong's expression was kind and tender.
The scene quickly shattered.
The sound of Xu Tie and his wife arguing took its place.
"You good-for-nothing! I've spent my whole life squeezed in here with your parents, and