The Year 1979 in My Life

Summary

In Chapter 32 of "The Old Chef in the Royal Mansion," the cold weather contrasts with Li He's lively drinking session with Li Aijun, who reflects on life and the value of youth. As they enjoy expensive liquor, a disheveled old man struggles in the rain, dismissed by a rude woman. Li He, moved by the old man's plea for food, offers to help him despite his own drunken state. After a chaotic encounter at the restaurant, where Li He faces nausea, he learns the old man's sharp tongue contrasts his starving condition. The chapter highlights themes of compassion amidst hardship and the stark differences in social status, culminating in a tense interaction with the restaurant owner.

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