The indoor garden was quiet except for the soft trickle of a small fountain. Sunlight filtered through the glass ceiling, painting the space with dotted light. The scent of damp soil mixed with rose hung in the air. Micah sat hunched on the chair beside Zhou Ruyan, his mask tugged slightly down so he could sip at the tea she had poured him earlier. His leg bounced restlessly, heel tapping against the tiled floor.
"Grandma, I'm out of options," Micah whispered at last.
Zhou Ruyan set her teacup down elegantly, her hand resting lightly on the porcelain lid. She studied him, the lines around her eyes tightening in concern. "Why don't you let me try?" she suggested gently.
