With no other options, Mr. Sheng finally conceded and sought out Sheng Shi's grandfather, allowing Mrs. Sheng to visit Sheng Shi.
Sheng Shi was originally sitting on the sofa, anxiously pondering whether his psychological tactics had failed. By now, his mother, known for her impatience, should have been in a full-blown argument with Mr. Sheng. Why hasn't she come to see him yet?
As Sheng Shi was caught up in these thoughts, he heard his mother's voice at the door: "Open the door; Dad told me to come and see Shi'er."
Upon hearing this voice, Sheng Shi immediately jumped up from the sofa in one swift move. He threw the cigarette butts he'd accumulated over the past few days onto the floor in the corner, then crouched down by the wall. He lit two cigarettes, took quick puffs, dissipating the smoke before tossing those butts down as well. He lit another cigarette, holding it leisurely as he leaned against the wall, striking a deliberately despondent and sorrowful pose.
