Qiao Mai knew the elderly couple didn't want to return home, but she couldn't persuade them. They only spent two months a year in their hometown.
They also had children and grandchildren, and it was important to gather during festivals and special occasions.
On the 22nd day of the twelfth lunar month, she steamed some red and garlic sausages and brought them to the old couple while they were about to have lunch.
When they saw her, they made space on the heated brick bed.
"Dear, join us for lunch?"
"I brought some delicious food for you. Try it, and if you like it, you can take some with you when you leave. I've prepared extra for you. If it's not good, I won't bring it for you."
"It's definitely delicious."
Qiao Mai smiled as she took the sausages out of the food container. They were neatly cut and arranged on a plate.
"What's this?"