The old custom passed down by the Chen family for half a lifetime quietly melted away in the step-by-step clarification of reason and fairness. Steam rose from the stove in the old house, and women were no longer left alone to busy themselves in the kitchen. As the old customs dissipated, three generations sat together around the round table, chopsticks clinking against the rims of bowls, laughter wrapped in the aroma of food; with everyone present and hearts warmed, this was a solid, genuine reunion.