Explore Chapter 17 of "Divorce" with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
Old Li was at his desk in the government office, though his mind was far from his duties. The chatter and laughter of Little Zhao and the others grated on his nerves, feeling merely like noise.
Elder Brother Zhang approached and patted his shoulder. 'Old Li,' he said, 'don't always wear that frown. Life goes on, after all.' Old Li managed a bitter smile and remained silent.
After work, Old Li ambled slowly homeward. At the mouth of the alley, he caught sight of Young Mrs. Ma returning with a basket of vegetables. She wore a light blue cheongsam that day, lending her an air of delicate grace.
Young Mrs. Ma noticed Old Li and acknowledged him with a nod and a smile. Summoning his courage, Old Li said, 'Been out shopping, Mrs. Ma?' 'Yes,' she replied. 'Just off work, Brother Li?' They stood for a moment, exchanging a few words.
Old Li asked why she was so often alone. Young Mrs. Ma sighed. 'Fate has been unkind-I married the wrong man.' A pang of sympathy shot through Old Li’s heart, leaving him at a loss for words of comfort.
Upon returning home, he found his wife scolding Ying and Ling for soiling their clothes. Old Li paid no heed and retreated directly to his study.
That night, Old Li lay awake, haunted by Young Mrs. Ma’s words. He, too, felt his marriage was a mistake, yet for the children’s sake, he resolved to bear it.
The following day at the office, Old Li overheard Little Zhao gossiping about Young Mrs. Ma, branding her a temptress. Fury surged within him, and he nearly lunged forward, but Elder Brother Zhang held him back.
Elder Brother Zhang cautioned, 'Old Li, best not to pry into such matters. The Ma family’s affairs are tangled enough.' When Old Li pressed for details, Elder Brother Zhang merely shook his head.