Misfortune Strikes the Li Family

In the Li household, Mrs. Li carefully stowed away the red envelope in a secluded corner, hidden under layers of fabric, ensuring her grandsons couldn't lay hands on it. She summoned Li Chengyuan, and together they set off to the town market.

Meanwhile, Fu Bao, the youngest member of the family, blinked innocently at Li Xiaolei, who had been fixated on her for what felt like an eternity. Li Xiaolei's fascination with his sister knew no bounds, and he eagerly asked Lin Yanfen, "Mom, why is Fubao still so small? When will she grow up? I want to play with her, catch frogs, fish, pick fruits, and gather bird eggs!"

Li Xiaoyi, the third son, chimed in, "Me too! I want to play with my sister!"

Lin Yanfen gently explained, "Fubao just celebrated her full moon. You'll have to wait a while for her to grow up."

The two boys gazed fondly at Fubao, enamored by her innocence and charm.

Meanwhile, Fu Bao, feeling drowsy like a little doll, succumbed to sleep under the watchful eyes of her family. However, her slumber was soon interrupted by the sound of footsteps as Li Chengyuan and the others returned.

Lin Yanfen gently woke Fu Bao, announcing their return as she cradled her in her arms and stepped outside.

Upon their return, the solemn expressions on Li Chengyuan, Mrs. Li, and the two boys immediately set the room's mood.

Li Xiaoyi was quick to inquire about the somber atmosphere, followed by Lin Yanfen, who expressed concern.

Mrs. Li, her eyes red with emotion, struggled to speak as she addressed Fu Bao, "I'm sorry, Fu Bao. The money for your full moon celebration was stolen. I failed to protect it. We can't have the celebration we planned for you. I'm truly sorry."

The news shocked Lin Yanfen, who couldn't comprehend how such a thing could happen.

The old man in the adjoining room erupted in a fit of anger upon hearing the news, berating Mrs. Li for her carelessness. Mrs. Li, overcome with grief and frustration, lamented the loss of the money meant for Fu Bao's celebration, cursing the thief responsible.

The boys felt disheartened by the news but realized there was little they could do to remedy the situation. Lin Yanfen, though sympathetic, couldn't shake the feeling of unease knowing that the stolen money represented a month of Li Chengyuan's hard-earned wages.