Over the past thirteen years, we have returned to Ms.Du’s place several times. Du runs a coal information shop which sits on a major transport route heading to all parts of China.

Dryness, dustiness, and noises are everything surrounding her. Drivers, coal dealers, and burglars wander into her shop as their stories unfolded amidst her wild laughter.

That winter, we greeted her again and found her lonely in her empty shop.