Li Qing's barbecue stand opened suddenly the next day, and they were nearly bursting at the seams with customers.
Li Qing hadn't even finished his meal before he started bustling about, greeting the guests.
Although the place was packed, the faces were mostly familiar.
Last night Li Qing had treated Tang Jianmin and others to dinner, and tonight almost all of them had brought their families to support Li Qing's new venture.
Someone had even set off a few strings of firecrackers on the main road, fizzing and popping away.
In an instant, it felt like a grand opening.
Han Mei and Wu Xingxing grilled skewers, their mouths curved in smiles the whole time.
Even though they were working amidst smoke and flames, they were genuinely happy.
The booming business also attracted nearby villagers who couldn't resist joining in on the fun.
They stayed busy until close to midnight before the last of the customers finally left.
