Chapter 103

In the days that followed, Xu Shu thoroughly enjoyed his leisurely time in Xu Village. Every morning, he would accompany Li Xiurong to visit the village elders house by house to pay his New Year respects. At every home, they were met with warm hospitality. Everyone would sit together, cracking melon seeds, sipping hot tea, sharing interesting stories from the past year, and discussing their hopes for the year ahead. Xu Shu followed behind his mother, respectfully offering his greetings, his face glowing with a sincere smile. In the afternoons, it was time for fun with his childhood friends. He would gather with Xu Haitao, Xu Haitian, and others, either recalling fond childhood memories in the village clearing or huddling together to discuss future plans and share their dreams. They would burst into laughter one moment and fall into deep thought the next, a carefree atmosphere permeating the entire village. Since the elders of Xu Yuan and Li Xiurong had mostly passed away, and the few remaining ones had drifted out of touch over the years, Xu Shu’s New Year visits were focused entirely on the village elders. It was a simple yet warm way to spend the holiday, and highly convenient. All in all, during this time, Xu Shu felt as if he had rediscovered the happiness of his childhood, his body and mind completely relaxed; he was truly content.