Ding Wan looked at her niece and said happily, "This is what everyone has been doing these past few days. They're learning and making things fast. There are things here and also in the inner room."
Su Binglan saw many things on the brick bed and even the windowsills. Fortunately, the brick bed was large enough for everyone to sit apart. She sat on the edge of the bed and placed her hands under the blanket, asking, "Is the bed warm enough for you guys?"
"Yes, it is."
"Madam Ding warms it up for us every day. The brick bed stays warm all day, and we won't catch a cold."
…
Everyone hurriedly replied whenever Su Binglan asked a question. They were awkward when faced with her, but they wore grateful smiles. They would also exchange a few words with each other to avoid awkward silences.
Although everyone talked to Su Binglam, their hands did not stop moving. Instead, they continued making dolls and sewing.