As the New Year approached, Zhou Xueli had just arrived in Changan City and couldn't leave immediately, so he temporarily settled down, waiting to return to Wozi Village with the niece and nephew after the New Year.
Zhou Xiuer was permitted by Wufu to be released from the woodshed and moved into the guest courtyard.
Zhou Xueli saw her thinning figure, her little face pointed, eyes big yet void of spirit, filled instead with timidity and fear.
"You..." The words of reproach reached Zhou Xueli's lips but were swallowed back; seeing her like this, what was there left to blame her for? Her own conscience wouldn't let her be.
"Second Uncle, when are we going home?" Zhou Xiuer asked timidly.
Zhou Xueli replied, "After the New Year, we'll leave."
Zhou Xiuer said nothing more.
