Family Affairs

Coming back, with two bags in his hands, Lou Cheng was somewhat embarrassed and was at a loss as to what to say, even though he had practiced in full preparation. Finally, he decided to be direct and said, "Dad, mom. These are for you."

"Gifts?" Lou Cheng's mother put aside her work and looked at him with surprize and suspicion. "Why did you buy us gifts? Have you made a mistake at school? Just tell us, and we won't blame you."

Such misunderstandings amused Lou Cheng and he shrugged off his embarrassment. He passed the gifts over and explained, "No, I bought them for you with my first bit of earned money. The knitted sweater is for you mother and the two thermal underwear are for Dad. Try them to see if they fit you well."

"Your first bit of earned money?" Lou Cheng's mother was confused but soon gave him a big smile. "You're a good boy. You don't have to buy gifts to show you are a caring son since we both know it."