When the clock signaled the end of work, Wang Cuihua dragged Zhao Xiahe home.
"I'm marrying you off today. Hurry and pack your things. If you throw a fit, don't bother taking anything."
"Mom, where are you marrying me off to?"
"Into the mountains, where you can learn to behave. Don't make me angry. Or else you know what will happen."
"I won't get married. This is such a feudal way of thinking—it's an arranged marriage."
Wang Cuihua laughed in exasperation. "I've told you, behave, and you can take your things. I'll give you a hundred yuan for the bottom of your chest. But if you make a fuss, I'll tie you up and take you to the mountains."
Looking at her mother's expressionless face, Zhao Xiahe resented her deeply. But if she really caused a scene, she'd end up with nothing.
Lowering her head, Zhao Xiahe went back to her room to pack. She managed to pack two big bags, filled with clothes, shoes, and socks. Her personal belongings were separately bundled.
