1.18

The crisp winter air was invigorating as Wushuang and Mrs. Bai made their way through the bustling market, their arms laden with bundles of firecrackers. It had been a busy few days, preparing for the New Year, but they were almost done with their shopping.

The streets were lined with colorful decorations and the cheerful chatter of people eagerly preparing for the celebrations.

Mrs. Bai, now looking healthier and more radiant than ever, adjusted the bundle of firecrackers in her arms. "Look at us, Yaya. I can't believe we're actually buying so many firecrackers. It feels like a dream."

Wushuang, her cheeks rosy from the cold, laughed. "I know! Last year, we couldn't even afford to look at them. Now we're stocking up as if we're going to set off the entire city!"

Their light-hearted conversation was interrupted by a tentative call. "Mrs. Bai? Yaya, is that you?"

Both women turned around to see Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian standing a short distance away. The two women seemed hesitant, their eyes wide with surprise and curiosity.

Wushuang couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between now and their previous life. Both Mrs. Bai and Wushuang had changed significantly. Where once they wore tattered clothes and looked gaunt, now they were dressed in clean, fine fabrics, their faces fuller and brighter. The transformation was so dramatic that it took Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian a moment to recognize them.

Mrs. Bai's face lit up with recognition and delight. "Oh, it's you two! I didn't expect to see you here. What a wonderful surprise!"

"Aunt Ma, Aunt Qian," Wushuang greeted warmly, her smile genuine. "It's been a while. I'm so glad to see you both."

The two women approached, still looking at Wushuang and Mrs. Bai with a mix of astonishment and admiration.

Mrs. Ma took Wushuang's hand, examining her with a motherly gaze. "Yaya, you've really filled out. It's good to see you looking so well. I was worried about you surviving the winter."

Mrs. Qian echoed her sentiments, holding Mrs. Bai's hand with genuine warmth. "Sister Bai, you look amazing! You've aged backward. It's like you've been rejuvenated."

Mrs. Ma nodded vigorously. "Yes, you were always known for your beauty back in the day. Hardship took its toll, but now, you're as radiant as you were then."

Wushuang offered a slight chuckle. "It's too cold to stand out here chatting. Why don't you come over to our place? We have hot water and some food ready."

Mrs. Bai quickly added, "Yes, come in and warm up. It's too chilly to stand around here."

With that, they all walked back to Wushuang's house, which was not far from the market. As they approached the small blue brick courtyard, Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian's eyes widened in admiration. The house, while modest, was clearly well-maintained and inviting.

Inside, the warmth of the house was a welcome relief from the biting cold outside. Mrs. Bai and Wushuang set out a feast, and the aroma of the cooked meat filled the room. Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian hesitated at first, but with Mrs. Bai's insistence, they finally started enjoying the meal.

Mrs. Ma, her eyes scanning the table, marveled. "You've really outdone yourselves. This spread is incredible."

Mrs. Qian, a little overwhelmed, added, "We don't usually see such abundance. It's a treat."

As they ate, Wushuang observed Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian with satisfaction. They had been kind and supportive in the past, and now that Wushuang was in a better position, she was glad to be able to show her gratitude.

After a while, Wushuang cleared her throat, preparing to discuss her offer. "Aunt Ma, Aunt Qian, I'm planning to open a shop after the New Year, and I need some staff. I'd like to offer you both positions. I promise it will be fair. I'm offering four coins of silver."

The offer was tempting, especially since the usual wages for such work were only two coins of silver. Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian looked at each other, clearly considering the opportunity. However, Mrs. Ma was the first to speak up.

"Yaya, we appreciate your generosity, but we know it's not a good idea to offer such high wages. In the market, wages for our age group are usually lower. It's kind of you, but it's not necessary."

Mrs. Qian nodded in agreement. "You don't have to give us more than the standard rate. We're capable of managing on our own."

Wushuang shook her head. "I understand your concern, but this isn't just about giving you more money. I need help around the house for my mother. She's been alone too much, and having you both here would be a great comfort to her. You'll be helping with housework and keeping her company. That's why the wages are higher."

The two women considered this, and Wushuang could see they were warming to the idea. Leaving Liujia Village had been a difficult decision for them, and the chance to work in a new environment was appealing. Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian were both eager for a change of scenery and a new opportunity.

Finally, Mrs. Ma spoke, her voice filled with resolve. "Alright, Yaya. We'll take the offer. We're ready for a fresh start and appreciate the chance to work with you."

Mrs. Qian nodded in agreement. "We're in. Thank you for thinking of us."

With their decision made, Wushuang felt a sense of relief and contentment. The additional help would ease her worries about leaving her mother alone, and Mrs. Bai would have some companionship.

As Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian prepared to head back to pack their things, Wushuang remembered her other plan. "I'm thinking of getting a dog for extra security. It's always better to have loyal protection, especially with the New Year coming up. I'll go and look for one soon."

Just as she opened the door to step outside, she nearly collided with Wu Yi, who was standing there, hand raised as if about to knock.

Wu Yi looked surprised to see her. "Oh, Miss Yaya! I didn't expect to see you here."

Wushuang quickly recovered from her surprise. "Wu Yi! What brings you here?"

Wu Yi cleared his throat, looking somewhat uncomfortable. "I came to inform you that we've caught all the human traffickers from the earlier incident. I just wanted to make sure you knew that they're being dealt with properly."

Wushuang nodded, relieved. "Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate your diligence. I'm actually heading out to find a dog for added security. It's been quite a busy period preparing for the New Year."

Wu Yi's expression softened with understanding. "That's good to hear. It's always better to be prepared. If you need any help or have any concerns, feel free to let me know."

With a final nod, Wu Yi left, and Wushuang turned back to her house, her mind buzzing with plans and preparations.

If only dealing with everything was as simple as buying firecrackers or picking out a dog. But with everything coming together, I'm feeling pretty optimistic.

She resumed her conversation with Mrs. Ma and Mrs. Qian, finalizing their plans and ensuring they were comfortable with their upcoming new roles. As they made their preparations, Wushuang felt a deep sense of satisfaction. She was looking forward to the New Year and all the joy and festivities it would bring.