New ink fragrance in old times

Upon hearing this, Lin Wenru lowered his head and fell into deep thought, as if weighing the rationality of this explanation. After a moment, he nodded slightly, as if accepting Lin Xueqian's statement, and did not ask further questions.

The others present, including Li Ling, Hua Juan, and Lin Xiqian, also expressed their agreement with this explanation. Some sighed softly, some looked worried, but most expressed their concern and admonishments for Lin Mo.

Lin Wenru turned to Lin Mo and said earnestly, "Douzi, you must remember this lesson and never try such dangerous things again. Alcohol is not a joke, especially since you are still young and your body can't handle it."

Hearing this, Lin Mo nodded obediently.

Lin Sijian and the others watched the adults' conversation, their eyes filled with confusion. They didn't quite understand what important matter they were discussing, but they vaguely sensed that it was related to Brother Douzi. However, none of this affected their continued joy of drinking tea and enjoying their innocent time.

Lin Mo followed the crowd on his way home, his steps brisk but cautious. He secretly felt lucky that he had escaped danger again today.

Lin Mo knew very well that he had to hide at all times and not reveal any flaws to avoid being discovered.

At this moment, the basket in Lin Xueqian's hands was heavy. The aroma of chestnuts and the tempting taste of meat patties intertwined, causing Lin Mo to swallow unconsciously. He secretly glanced at the two meat patties wrapped tightly in paper, and a hint of desire flashed in his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.

Recalling the scene when he just left his second grandfather's house, Lin Mo couldn't help but sigh in his heart. He finally realized what it meant to have the ways of the world engraved in his bones.

At that time, Han Xiufang, the second grandmother who always had a smile on her face, was carrying a large basket filled with plump and attractive chestnuts.

As she added chestnuts to the basket, she greeted Lin Xueqian enthusiastically, "Shi Tou, these chestnuts are all from our own trees. They're very fresh. Take them back and let your parents have a taste."

Seeing this, Lin Xueqin quickly waved his hand to refuse: "Second Aunt, no, no, we have some at home, you can keep it for yourself." His voice was full of sincerity and gratitude.

However, Han Xiufang wouldn't listen to his excuses. With a smile, she shoved the basket into Lin Xueqian's hands and brought out steaming meat patties from the kitchen. The golden crust was glistening with oil, and the aroma was mouth-watering. "And here are some freshly-cooked meat patties. Let the kids satisfy their cravings. Don't be polite, we're all family."

Lin Wenru also echoed the sentiment. He patted Lin Xueqian on the shoulder and said with a smile, "Shitou, don't refuse it. Listen to your uncle and accept it. Why are you being so reserved with us?"

Faced with the tough attitude of Lin Wenru and Han Xiufang, Lin Xueqin finally had no choice but to accept this heavy gift.

Lin Mo now recalled the exchanges between the few people. He, Dalang and Erlang watched quietly from the side without being able to say a word.

Finally, I could only carry the heavy basket and go home.

Alas, what a sweet burden.

After returning home, Lin Xueqin told his parents about his uncle's family's concern. He handed the basket to Old Mrs. Lin and said, "Mom, this is what my uncle and aunt gave us. They said they wanted us to try something new."

Old Mrs. Lin took the basket and said, "Oh, your uncle and aunt are so thoughtful."

Lin Sixuan and Lin Siyuan returned to their room. They didn't know how to face Lin Mo for the time being.

"Brother, how do we get along with Sanlang now? I'm afraid of irritating him." Lin Siyuan said worriedly.

Lin Sixuan sighed, and after a moment of contemplation, he said, "Erlang, don't worry too much. We should be careful on a daily basis and be careful not to say the wrong thing, but we don't need to be too deliberate. Just be more concerned about him as usual, and that's all."

Meanwhile, Lin Mo was happily playing in the yard with Lin Sizhe, Hua'er, and other children, as if he had truly returned to his carefree five-year-old days. He would constantly tell himself, "I'm just a five-year-old kid. I don't know anything. I just need to have fun."

As the sunset gradually sank into the horizon and night fell quietly, the Lin family's courtyard was decorated with the light of lanterns, making it look like a picturesque scene.

The busy figures of adults were walking around, carefully hanging each lantern to ensure that every corner was filled with festive joy.

Finally, night fell and the Lin family ushered in the most solemn moment.

The Lin family members gathered in the center of the yard without any prior arrangement, and everyone's face was filled with respect and anticipation for the traditional festival.

As the elder in the family, Mr. Lin took the lead in setting up the incense table. His movements were both serious and pious.

Mrs. Lin carefully arranged the carefully prepared persimmons, dim sum and moon cakes on the side, each of which represented her love and blessings for her family.

The children also excitedly joined in, helping to deliver items and occasionally stealing a glance at the tempting food, their eyes gleaming with anticipation.

"Come, everyone, stand still. We are going to start praying." Old Master Lin lit the incense and candles, clasped his hands together, and prayed devoutly to the bright moon: "May our family be safe and sound, with good weather and a good harvest."

The others followed suit, each closing their eyes and silently reciting their wishes.

Lin Mo also imitated Grandpa Lin, clasped his hands together, closed his eyes, and made a silent wish in his heart.

When he opened his eyes, he met the concerned gazes of Lin Sixuan and Lin Siyuan. Lin Mo pretended to be confused and smiled at them.

The moon worship ceremony slowly concluded amidst devout prayers, and the moonlight gently bathed the courtyard. Then, a feast for the senses and palates quietly began. A sumptuous dinner unfolded before the family like a meticulously arranged scroll.

On the dining table, the mooncakes are carefully arranged in a circle, with exquisite patterns printed on the golden outer skin, emitting an enticing sweet aroma, as if instantly evoking everyone's longing for and warmth of home.

The barbecue becomes crispy on the outside and tender on the inside under the charcoal fire. The fat dripping onto the charcoal makes a sizzling sound, and the tempting aroma fills the air, making people want to feast on it.

The persimmons, like little autumn suns, were bright red and exuded a refreshing fruity aroma, adding a touch of natural charm to the dinner. Their skins were carefully peeled, revealing the crystal-clear flesh. Every bite was an ultimate temptation for the taste buds.

The meat patties that I brought home at noon had already been divided and were now lying quietly on the plate. They were fried until golden on both sides, with a crispy outer skin and tender and juicy meat inside.

Mr. Lin picked up his chopsticks and said with a smile, "Let's eat!"