Wang Lao'er and Chen Laosi also wanted to head down into the water to catch clams, but Wu Hua firmly stopped them. Although he knew they could swim, they were unfamiliar with these waters, and safety had to come first.
By the time they returned to the reservoir management office, it was already two-thirty in the afternoon, half an hour later than planned. Fortunately, they were just in time for the braised fish. It was served steaming hot—two five-pound bighead carp, each split into a basin larger than a washbasin. On the table, there were also fresh corn, potatoes, eggplants, crisp little cucumbers, and bright, fresh scallions, all looking incredibly appetizing. The caretaker had also specially prepared a plate of the reservoir’s signature fresh shrimp; their vibrant red color was enough to whet anyone’s appetite.
Everyone was famished, so they washed their hands and gathered around to eat. The caretaker said heartily, "Boys, dig in! It’s a waste if there’s any left over!"
Chapter 197