Afu understood Shiyi's thoughts the best. Seeing his entanglement and silence, she knew he was upset for Marquis Chu but was too embarrassed to help. She gently pinched Shiyi's hand and said softly, "Good boy."
For some inexplicable reason, Shiyi was somewhat moved. Indeed, the one who understood him best was still his own "mother". He sniffled, then said aloud to Afu, "Before you go back to Dingzhou, please tell me. I will prepare some things for Grandmother Liao Chen, Uncle Atang, my little brother, and Dahu as a token for their past kindness to me."
What a clever and grateful boy! Afu nodded, approving his sentiment.
Seated at another table, Marquis Chu and the elder Marquis also discerned his implied meaning, and were deeply moved.
After the meal, Afu saw off the guests, then encouraged Chu Hanyan and her two little brothers to go rest.
After a bath with Yu'er, Afu played with her for a while to lull her to sleep. Afterwards, she stepped into her private space.