There's an old saying that the first day of the Lunar New Year should be filled with joy and celebration. That way, the rest of the year will be smooth and prosperous. While it's just a nice sentiment, it's one everyone holds onto, and no one wants to start the new year on a sour note.
Xiao Man's New Year's Day, however, was full of bumps and scrapes—anything but smooth and pleasant. If the old saying held true, she was in for a year of silent frustrations.
The Gu family banquet had separate seating for men and women. Gu Shaojun escorted her to Grandma Tang's side, then went to the front hall himself to join Grandpa Gu and Grandpa Tang for a drink and a chat.
