After handing out red envelopes to the younger generation, the Yu family began their lively banquet. The Yu family was large—He Su Ye’s three uncles, one aunt, and all the younger generation together filled several tables.
Grandfather Yu, ever the traditional patriarch, left for his study after the meal, as was his habit. The atmosphere immediately lightened, becoming more animated. He Su Ye’s youngest uncle, sitting beside him, teased, “Hey, why haven’t you brought a girlfriend home for us to meet yet?”
Everyone laughed, and his little niece asked curiously, “What’s a girlfriend?”
Her older brother puffed up proudly. “You don’t know? A girlfriend is the lady who plays kissy-kissy with Little Uncle!”
The innocence of a child’s words sent the whole room into uproarious laughter. Even the housekeeper covered her mouth, trying to suppress her giggles. He Su Ye chuckled too. “These things can’t be rushed. When the right person comes along, you’ll meet her.”
But his relatives didn’t let it go so easily. “Not good enough! Penalty drink! Fill his glass!”
By the time the meal ended, he had drunk a little too much. He went to the bathroom to splash his face with cold water. On his way out, Grandma Yu called to him, “Su Ye, your grandfather wants to see you in the study.”
In the study, Grandfather Yu was seated at a chessboard. Seeing He Su Ye enter, he gestured for him to come over. “Su Ye, play a round with me.”
He Su Ye took the white pieces while Grandfather Yu played black. Having not played for a while, He Su Ye lost by a single point. Grandfather Yu nodded in approval. “Even though you lost, that was a good game. It’s been a while since you played, hasn’t it?”
Thinking carefully, He Su Ye replied, “About a year, I think.”
Grandfather Yu sipped his tea and then said, “Take a look at my leg. It’s an old injury from my time in the military—always aches when the weather gets cold.”
While examining his leg, Grandfather Yu spoke slowly. “Su Ye, we’ve never blamed your father.”
He Su Ye made a faint sound of acknowledgment, his throat tightening.
Grandfather Yu continued, “I may seem rigid and overly stern, but I still hope to enjoy the company of my children and grandchildren in my old age. Your father only has you, and with your mother gone, he’ll be very lonely in his later years.”
Nose stinging, He Su Ye dared not lift his head to meet his grandfather’s gaze. “I understand, Grandfather.”
“Your father brought it up when he visited me for tea. He asked about the distance between the two of you. At the time, I decided that if I ever saw you, I’d have to give you a good scolding. But I know you’re sensible and will figure out what to do.”
“I’ll make time to talk to him,” He Su Ye promised.
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