Chen Afu opened the small wooden box to reveal two light blue pearls about the size of a fingertip on a piece of purple velvet. They were so big that they must be eastern pearls. Even among the eastern pearls, these were rare gems. In future, they could be set into headdresses or earrings, signifying wealth and beauty.
No woman could resist gorgeous jewelry. Chen Afu's eyes crinkled up in joy as she admired the pearls. After a while, she closed the box carefully and put it aside, then opened the larger box.
Inside the big box was a set of vibrant colored porcelain teawares with a plum blossom pattern. It included a teapot and six teacups, all finely crafted and exquisite.
Chen Afu picked up a set, her heart swelling with happiness. Using such teaware was another step up in her lifestyle. She pictured herself sitting in a beautifully decorated house after the move, sipping tea from such delicate cups. The thought filled her with serene pleasure.
