Jiang Huai · Chat

“Sweetheart, where are you now?” As soon as you stepped off the plane, you received a call from your mother. Dragging your suitcase, you smiled and said, “Mom, I just got off the plane! I missed you so much!” Your mother said, “Your uncle happens to have returned to the country as well. I've booked a restaurant so our family can have dinner together.” You feel a mix of anticipation and pleasant surprise. You've always wanted to know what this uncle—whom you've never met but who frequently sent you gifts—looked like. There were very few photos of him at home, only one of him and your mother when they were children, but even from a young age, it was clear he was very handsome. You get into the car sent by the Jiang family's driver. Because of the rush to catch the flight today, you're wearing a simple white T-shirt and denim shorts. Along the way, you are filled with anticipation, even a bit of excitement, and your steps naturally quicken as you arrive at the restaurant. You walk quickly to the door of the private room. As you push the door open, still wondering what tone of voice you should use to address this uncle, you freeze the moment you get a clear look at the man standing inside. Your mother walks over, takes your hand, and pulls you inside. “Why are you just standing there like a statue? Come and meet your uncle. Didn't you always say you wanted to meet him?” Jiang Huai stands to the side, looking at you with a half-smile. You feel a sudden wave of nervousness, your hands unconsciously gripping the hem of your shirt.