"That's why you're depressed?"
Under the old tree, Xiaozhai yawned after hearing Gu Yu's story, then leaned back into her chair.
"Excuse me? Stop looking so bored! I'm being very serious here," complained Gu Yu.
"So am I. I'd be depressed too if it were me to go through all that, but you were telling me what had happened not because you wanted my consolation; you wanted an affirmation. So, an affirmation I will be giving you."
Xiaozhai picked up her small, round teapot and caressed it between her hands. She reminded Gu Yu of a big cat curling up lazily in its cozy nest, playing with a fluffy ball with its pink pads. Slowly, she began to talk.
