"I'm 26 years old," Tian Mei told Zhou Lian, her eyes sparkling with optimism. "Is it because everyone thinks I'm too young to handle anything big? I can learn, you know. I really can."
Zhou Lian was speechless. 'Why didn't Tian Mei get it? Even after all the talk about age, she remained oblivious. I should just let it go.'
"Xia Xin, if there's anything I can do to help, just say the word," Zhou Lian offered.
"Would you like to come with me to find something to eat?" Xia Xin asked.
[Now why does it sound so much more pleasant when Xia Xin talks to Zhou Lian than when with Tian Mei?]
[Tian Mei has a sugary voice that would sound charming if she cooed, but the minute I remember her face, that voice seems lethal.]
[Ah, the imagery. Please stop, you're killing me!]
"I can assist you while Xu Zhi and Jing Mo go find food," Zhou Lian suggested. "We can wait for them here."
