His cousin-in-law, Jiang Xiaomei, who had been a part of his life for over two years, had been appearing less and less frequently lately. For almost a month, she hadn't been seen at home. Zhou Jie, on the other hand, came over often, bringing ingredients every few days to carefully prepare a family hot pot for Li Baolong. The two enjoyed the steaming hot pot together, adding warmth to the somewhat quiet home.

That day, sunlight streamed through the window, bathing Li Baolong in its glow as he immersed himself in a captivating story from "Story Collection." Suddenly, the door opened, and his cousin-in-law, Jiang Xiaomei, entered. Her eyes held a hint of resolute weariness as she said, "Baolong, I'm moving today. I won't be living here anymore. I… I broke up with your brother. He's with another woman." Li Baolong was startled, thinking to himself: His cousin, Huang Jian, was truly a womanizer, always having affairs. In the two years he'd lived with his cousin-in-law, he knew she was a thrifty woman. Though somewhat vain and fond of spending on cosmetics and clothes, what woman doesn't love beauty? Li Baolong looked at his cousin-in-law and said sincerely, "Sister-in-law, as long as you're doing well, that's all that matters. I won't interfere in your affairs. In my heart, you'll always be my sister-in-law." Jiang Xiaomei shook her head, "Don't say that, Baolong. You're a good boy. Don't be like your cousin. Study hard and get into university. You can still call me Sister Mei from now on. I'll always consider you my precious little brother." Li Baolong felt sorry for his cousin, but he still silently helped Jiang Xiaomei pack her clothes and personal belongings and carried them downstairs.

Downstairs, a Xiali taxi sat quietly. As Jiang Xiaomei got in, she turned to Li Baolong and said, "Brother Bao, if you ever need anything, just come find me at the 'Beauty Appointment' hair salon across the Tuojiang Second Bridge. Goodbye." Watching the taxi drive away until it disappeared from sight, Li Baolong felt a complex mix of emotions. From then on, he was all alone in the house, and a wave of loneliness washed over him.