"Father is right. We must study hard, practice martial arts well, and protect mother and sister when we grow up."
"Yes, wipe your tears. We are men. Men don't cry easily, understand?"
"Understood!"
Finally, Qiao Mai could have some peace. Without them around, she was free. She placed Ling 'er on the bed and sat by the table. She took out some paper and paintbrushes and sketched the blueprints for her new home.
Ling'er, who was almost a year old, could already walk. However, she spoke a little late and still could not call her mother.
However, she was obedient. When her mother worked, she would play with balls, blocks, and boxes on the brick bed. She would put things in, take them out, put them in again, and take them out again. She did not feel bored at all.
Qiao Mai would occasionally turn to look at her. They would always smile at each other when their eyes met.
