Explore Chapter 24 of '老张的哲学' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
Li Jing's uncle was lying on the kang. Li Jing sat on the edge, her uncle's hand tightly holding hers. The stove in the room had gone out, and a cold wind seeped in through the window cracks, making Li Jing shiver. Her uncle's voice was so faint it was almost inaudible: 'Jing'er, it would be a relief if I died, but it leaves you in a hard spot.' Li Jing held back her tears and said, 'Uncle, don't say that. There must be a way.'
Her uncle shook his head and said, 'What way out is left? Lao Zhang is pressing hard, and I can't borrow any money. Your aunt means well, but she can't help either. Jing'er, listen to me. Marry Master Sun Ba. At least you'll have a good life.' Li Jing stood up abruptly and said, 'No! I'd rather die than marry him!' Her uncle sighed and said no more.
At that moment, Wang De pushed the door open and entered, his face eager. Seeing Li Jing and her uncle, he quickly said, 'Sister Jing, I have an idea! We can go to Long Shugu. Although he owes Lao Zhang money, he might be able to plead for us.' Li Jing said with a bitter smile, 'Long Shugu can't even protect himself. How can he help us?' Wang De insisted, 'Trying is better than not trying at all. I'll go right now!' With that, he hurried out.
Li Jing watched Wang De's receding figure, and a surge of warmth filled her heart. She knew that Wang De truly meant well for her, but she also knew it was not easy. Her uncle started coughing on the kang. Li Jing hurried over to tend to him. Outside the window, the wind grew stronger, and the sky gradually darkened.