Had Granny really returned?
Hu Ma glanced toward the table but saw nothing.
To his eyes, there was only empty air, blending seamlessly with the night outside the door.
Yet, he noticed the genuine joy and affection on Little Hongtang's face.
If Granny had truly returned, he should have been able to see her.
Even if she had returned in another form, she would have made herself visible to him.
This puzzled Hu Ma, but he held back his questions.
Second Uncle had warned him not to ask such things, as it would be disrespectful.
Just because he couldn’t see her didn’t mean Granny hadn’t returned.
Others in the village couldn’t see their ancestors either, yet they still held them in reverence.
So, Hu Ma forced a smile, poured a cup of wine for Granny, and then served himself some dumplings.
He placed the first three dumplings on the table for Granny, gave Little Hongtang a small bowl, and took a large bowl for himself.
The family huddled together in the dimly lit room, sharing a reunion meal.
For a moment, Hu Ma felt as though he could see Granny sitting in the armchair, her loving gaze fixed on him and Little Hongtang.
His heart felt at ease.
That night, the village was aglow with lanterns that burned through the night.
Every household had their ancestors staying with them.