Afternoon.
The water room in the family compound was unbearably cold.
Li was vigorously scrubbing a large basin of military uniforms, her hands red like carrots from the cold.
"Oh dear, this weather is really a killer."
Sister in law Qian, next to her, wrung out clothes while exhaling white breath.
"Tell me about it, the water's as icy as shards."
"If you ask me, some people just have luck on their side."
Li smacked the clothes heavily against the washboard, splashing water everywhere.
"We're out here being workhorses, while inside, some people enjoy a cozy fire and rare delicacies."
Sister in law Qian immediately leaned in closer.
"You mean that lady from the Gu Family?"
"Who else but her!"
Li lowered her voice.
"Did you hear this morning? Sister in law Zhang's little one was crying out of envy just because he caught a whiff from their place!"
"I heard it was something like... strawberry jam!"
Sister in law Qian gasped.
