As they walked, the three men grew increasingly resolute, their thoughts filled with the dedicated guidance and unwavering support Director Song had always provided for the work of the Supply and Marketing Cooperative.
Before long, the familiar little courtyard of Director Song’s home came into view. They straightened their clothes and checked the gifts in their hands one last time. Only then did they step forward to knock on the door, ready to offer their most sincere New Year’s greetings and begin a heartwarming visit.
Following the crisp sound of knocking, the door slowly creaked open. Standing there was a kind-faced woman with streaks of gray in her hair. She was somewhat petite, and time had etched shallow marks upon her face; the crow’s feet at the corners of her eyes and the fine lines on her forehead spoke of a life of toil and history. She wore a blue cloth jacket, faded from many washes—though not new, it was clean and tidy, with meticulous stitching visible at the collar, a testament to careful handiwork and repeated laundering. Her simple black trousers were practical, and as she moved, the cuffs swayed with a brisk energy. Tied around her waist was a dark blue apron, still dusted with a bit of flour, as if she had just been busy in the kitchen.
Chapter 518