Zhao Jinling (right) and Zhou Yuying examine the tea leaves they picked from their tea garden at home in Lishui, East China's Zhejiang province, April 18, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

Zhou still took care of him just as she had in the past. "After getting married with Zhao, I still treated my ex-husband as my brother, and took care of him."

Another surprise was in store for Liu, who was shocked that Zhao took care of him with as much care as Zhou did. "This couple brings me washing water every day, and wash my body three times a day, and we even have meals together as they eat by my bed. They also talk with me and we watch TV together at night. I am moved by them and really grateful to them," he said.

"My relationship with Zhao is even better than with real brothers. He is a good man," he said.

Once, when Liu developed bedsores he had to stay in the hospital for three months to get treatment. During that time, patients who observed Zhao care for Liu were so moved they thought Zhao and Liu were real brothers.

Zhao also treated Liu's daughter like she was his own. "She will graduate from a university this year, and I will ask her to observe filial duty to Zhao just like to me."

Zhao and Zhou had their own daughter in 2006. The tea business has grown bigger in recent years and they built a small villa in the village.

"I'm an outsider. Liu and Yuying offered me a family here, " Zhao said.

"Liu's inclusiveness allows Zhou and Zhao to live a good life, and Zhou's insistence of taking care of Liu helps him to live and Zhao's love has braced up this special family," said Ye Shubing, deputy head of Songyang county civilization administration office. "They are really good people."