Because he had upset Wang Meilan yesterday, Zhao Youcai got up before five this morning and personally made breakfast for the whole family.
When breakfast was ready, Wang Meilan still hadn't gotten up, so Zhao Youcai had no choice but to take his bowl and eat alone by the stove.
After eating, Zhao Youcai went back inside. He first changed into his mountain trousers, then wrapped his puttees, pulled on his cotton-padded jacket, and finally slipped on his white overcoat.
As he took his gun down from the wall, he noticed Wang Meilan stir. Zhao Youcai whispered, "Meilan, breakfast is ready. Get up and eat in a bit, okay?"
The moment he finished speaking, Wang Meilan's voice came through. "If you go showing off again and catch a cold, see if I don't throw you out."
Zhao Youcai chuckled and pushed the door open, leaving.
After Zhao Youcai left, Wang Meilan got up from the kang bed and got her two little girls up to wash, dress, and eat.
