Lin Lan put the money away securely, closed the door, and went to the woodshed to grab a sickle and a back basket. She dropped Little Douzi off at the old lady's house, then went to Niu Bei Mountain to cut grass.
Just as she reached Old Chen's thatched hut, an invigorated Old Chen called out to her. "Little Lin, I'll be heading home in a bit."
Lin Lan was happy for him, too. "Congratulations, Uncle Chen! That's wonderful!"
Old Chen bowed to her. "Little Lin, thank you!" He recalled his darkest hour; it had been Lin Lan's help and encouragement that had restored his confidence. Now that he had finally seen the light at the end of the tunnel, he was overcome with gratitude.
Lin Lan quickly stepped aside. "Uncle Chen, let the past be the past. Things will only get better from now on."
