The sun slowly sank behind the western hills, its warm red afterglow spreading across the little courtyard. Wisps of cooking smoke rose gently, painting a peaceful, homely scene. A clean wooden table had long been set in the yard, with the five of them gathered around it. Laughter and cheerful conversation filled the air, and the atmosphere was relaxed and harmonious.
"Xiao Yi, Auntie truly has to thank you for taking such good care of Nannan all this time." Mother Jiang was brimming with warmth as she kept placing food into Xiao Yi's bowl. The satisfaction and gratitude in her eyes could not be concealed.
As a mother, she had always worried about her daughter studying far away in Shrek City. During the meal, she had quietly watched Jiang Nannan and Xiao Yi's every move. Seeing the shy affection neither could hide when their eyes met, the worry she had carried for so long finally eased somewhat. Still, there were things she wanted to ask in person.
"Wutong, have some more too." Mother Jiang smiled as she placed a serving of food into Tang Wutong's bowl. Tang Wutong sat beside her, reserved and well-behaved. "From now on, you and Nannan should treat each other like real sisters and keep each other company."
Tang Wutong hurriedly nodded obediently, drawing in her neck like a timid little quail.
"And Xiaoya, thank you for staying by Nannan's side and taking care of her all these years."
Tang Ya's eyes curved as she smiled softly and brightly. "No need to be so polite, Auntie. Nannan and I have always been the best of sisters. It's only right that we look after each other."
As she spoke, she secretly winked at Jiang Nannan, her gaze carrying a teasing glint.
Jiang Nannan's cheeks instantly flushed crimson