As the sun neared the horizon, igniting the sky with a blaze of fiery reds, Wang Peifang, no longer the picture of past elegance, trudged towards Chu Village with a bundle on her back…
Stepping onto the smooth cobblestone road, she was taken aback by the transformation from the previously uneven path. The village seemed wealthier now, which secretly pleased her, thinking she wouldn't have to endure hardship anymore.
Her son, Chu Yanwen, nearly two years old, was dragged along, complaining of the pain in his hand, "Mom, where are we going?"
Wang Peifang looked down at him, "We're going to Chu Qingzhi's home. Her family is wealthy now. We can live well with them."
Chu Yanwen asked in confusion, "Who's Chu Qingzhi?"
Wang Peifang paused before explaining, "She was once my foster daughter, who was sent back later."
Chu Yanwen nodded, not fully understanding.