These days, it wasn't fashionable to throw a huge wedding banquet, but you still had to treat the neighbors who came to give gift money to a meal. So, the old lady had arranged in advance with a few aunties from the village she knew well to come over and help with the cooking and washing today.
The Li family wasn't planning a big celebration either. They set up two tables at home for lunch, serving guests as they arrived. The menu was six dishes and one soup, all decided on beforehand. They had learned from the experiences of other families who had recently held weddings, choosing a spread that was neither extravagant nor shabby.
"Oh, I know. Everything's already prepared. I even have the bone broth simmering on the stove."
