Neighborhood Bonds

Gu Zi reached out to embrace Aunt Zhang, who responded with a look of surprise and gratification. It was clear that she hadn't expected such an intimate gesture from Gu Zi. Aunt Zhang was thrilled by the embrace, her voice trembling with excitement. "Gu Zi, it's been so long," she said. "If I had known you were coming, I would have dressed up a bit."

Gu Zi's eyes curved into crescents as she laughed. She had come to visit after a lifetime of laborious work that had left her physically and emotionally drained. In this life, she yearned for a peaceful and comfortable existence, filled with family meals, seasonal greetings, and occasional travels.