13: Preparing Her First Meal
Back home, Li Mei sets a small fire, the warmth adding a comforting glow to her otherwise bare room. She boils water in the old cooking pot, adding the rice, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and greens. The aroma fills her modest home, and she feels a rare moment of peace as she watches the ingredients blend together.
The meal is simple—a watery porridge, but the taste of something warm and nourishing lifts her spirits. She eats slowly, savoring each bite. As she finishes, a gentle tiredness settles over her, reminding her of her weakened state.