Dad was getting the fishing rods ready.Lines, hooks, and the small box with baits.
Hao thought back — in the old days, everyone liked fishing.Except mom.Dad, brother, Hao, and little sister — they loved the quiet water.
When mom wanted to go shopping, she let dad take Hao out fishing.If dad went alone, he would take the older brother instead.
Maybe mom didn't like bringing Hao along.But every time they came back from shopping,they always brought snacks Hao liked.So maybe it wasn't so bad.
Now, with a grown mind, Hao could see it differently.Maybe the little him was really naughty back then.
Vroom—The car engine started.Dad packed everything in the trunk.Brother and sister were already inside.Hao got in, took the seat near the window.Mom locked the door and joined them.
The car moved.A small trip to the fishing pond.
Outside, the sky was soft and clear.Hao looked out, lost in thought.Then—"Ah!" he suddenly said.
He saw Kanghui.And in that moment,he remembered what he had forgotten last night.
Mom turned her head. "Why are you shouting?"Hao: "Nothing. I just remembered… I was supposed to meet Weihao and Kanghui."Mom didn't answer.Hao smiled. "It's fine. They'll understand."
The pond was not far.Around twenty minutes away.The road was quiet — everyone still sleeping,or maybe dreaming about not working.
Soon, they arrived.Hao helped dad carry the gear.Mom was told to come pick them up later.
Dad said, "You go find a spot. I'll pay first."Hao nodded. "Can I pick whichever?"Dad smiled. "Any place you like."
Hao walked around.The right side looked emptier.Maybe because it was still early.
Dad came back with two drinks.He said hi to the other fishers.Everyone answered the same — "Just arrived."
Maybe that's how fishing people talk.
Dad sat beside Hao.He started tying the line, fixing the hook.He used the floating style.
Everything was ready.The first cast — the line cut through the air,falling softly into the water.
Sunlight shone on dad's back.And Hao thought,this moment felt even more real than a dream.