Chapter 5: She is the Little Evil Star
The well in their village was located in the center, not too far from their home. By the time they arrived, many villagers were already lined up to fetch water.
"Zhao Dong, here to fetch water?"
"Yeah. Have you eaten yet?"
"Just cooking now. Oh, little Tongtong is out helping her dad fetch water too!"
"Yes, Uncle! I’m really strong now, you know."
The neighbors continued to greet each other. Zhao Zhitong, with her little mouth as if smeared with honey, chirped sweet "Uncles," "Aunties," "Grandpas," and "Grandmas." Her adorable and well-behaved demeanor drew much playful teasing from them.
No matter what they said or how they teased her, Zhao Zhitong handled it all admirably, and the neighbors couldn’t stop praising her intelligence.
Hearing the neighbors’ words of praise, Zhao Dong could hardly conceal the proud expression on his face.
The sun was about to set, and the cool weather made it the peak time for fetching water. Since it would still be a while before their turn, Zhao Dong let Zhao Zhitong play nearby.
Many children from the village were running and chasing each other on the street. A few children about Zhao Zhitong’s age were squatting in front of a doorway, playing house.
Seeing Zhao Zhitong arrive, they happily called out to her, "Tongtong, Tongtong, come play house with us! You can be the bride this time."