"Uncle Li!"
A little girl with little horn-shaped pigtails raised her head and grinned.
It was Widow Wang's daughter, Er Ya.
"My mother told me to bring you these."
Er Ya held a little bag filled with dates.
Widow Wang's husband had died on the battlefield.
Life was tight for a woman raising a child alone.
Li Ping'an had often given these children soybeans, or a few pieces of meat when he ate it.
Whenever Widow Wang made something tasty or picked some fresh fruit,
she would bring some to Li Ping'an, though she knew his household lacked nothing.
Still, it was a token of her goodwill.
Li Ping'an did not refuse and picked up a red date.
He took a bite and found it sweet and succulent.
"Not bad! As it happens, I stewed some pork today. Take some home."
Er Ya's big eyes stared fixedly into the pot.
Her longing to eat was written all over her face, but she still shook her head.
"No, my mother said I can't keep eating your meat, Uncle Li. Earning money isn't easy for you either."
Li Ping'an smiled.
He had never been a cold-blooded man.
When he could help, he sometimes lent a hand.
Though he sought no repayment, people should at least say thank you and remember the kindness.
Someone like Sister-in-law Cai, far from being grateful, actually thought it was only natural that he should give her things.
That left Li Ping'an very displeased.
"I stewed so much, I can't finish it. Your Uncle Li has a very small appetite," Li Ping'an said.
Old Ox glanced at him. He did not even need to prepare his lies.
Er Ya swallowed, then took to her heels.
She seemed afraid her willpower would not hold.
"Goodbye, Uncle Li!"
Li Ping'an