After having lunch at the Cheng family, Qi Taiguo, reeking of alcohol, and Cheng Su returned from her parents' home. He sipped some tea and, glancing at the time, which was about right, he picked up his bag to head to the road at the village entrance and take a bus back to the troops in Qing City.
"Let me help you with that," Cheng Su offered eagerly as she reached for his luggage bag.
Qi Taiguo cast a fleeting look that held an indescribable weariness. She seemed eager, almost as if she couldn't wait for him to leave so he wouldn't be in the way.
Hmph, she'd better not regret this!
"No need," Qi Taiguo took back his bag.
"Taiguo, this is all smoked meat. Take it all back with you. When you have time, you can steam some for a treat," Mother Qi, carrying a bag full of things, ran out and stuffed it into Qi Taiguo's hands.