Shen Zhixing carefully tucked the brocade box into his breast pocket. His fingertips unconsciously traced the velvet surface, yet his gaze remained fixed on Yulan’s downcast lashes. The rhythmic ticking of the wall clock hung in the air until Mother Shen broke the stalemate with a gentle cough. "Aunt Mei says she’s stewed some lily and white fungus soup. Zhixing, go to the kitchen and bring it in; I have some private words for Yulan."
Once the door closed, Mother Shen gestured for Yulan to sit by the bedside. Her withered fingers smoothed out the wrinkles in the bedsheet. "Child, does it feel like things are moving too fast?"
Her clouded eyes reflected Yulan’s tense profile. "I was just like you when I was young, always afraid of owing others." The old woman suddenly chuckled, a raspy breath escaping her throat. "Back then, when your Uncle Shen was stationed at the border, he sent me a Swiss watch. I kept it hidden under my pillow for half a year, terrified of being accused of trying to climb the social ladder."
Chapter 72