Thinking of a son and a daughter, Huai Zi's heart swelled with tenderness. He wanted to say something to Juhua but couldn't get the words out, afraid she would misunderstand and think he was anxious to have a baby. He unconsciously reached out to tuck the fine hairs at her temple behind her ear, then gently caressed her small earlobe and gave her a brilliant smile.
Juhua smiled back, holding the bowl up to him and gesturing for him to have another piece. Their eyes lingered on each other for a moment before Huai Zi ate another Nangua cake. He then took the bamboo canteen, drank two large gulps of water, and rinsed his mouth.
After he finished, he didn't dawdle. He immediately stood, hoisted his carrying pole, and headed out, saying to Juhua, "If I work quickly, I can finish up earlier tonight and come home to keep you company."
