As the driver and his helper rolled off with their precious cargo, the hum of the tricycle engine fading into the bustling street, Mianmian dusted her hands and turned to Cheongsam.
"Well, that went smoother than I expected," she said, slipping the now-thinner envelope back into her bag.
Cheongsam let out a low whistle. "You're like a walking masterclass in negotiation. First the shopkeep, now the driver… Who's next? The landlord?"
Mianmian smiled. "Don't give me ideas."
The sun was still blazing, but the air felt different now. Their steps were lighter, the kind of relief that came with crossing an important item off a long-standing list.
Cheongsam stretched his arms high above his head as they approached the nearby bus stop. "You know, we could head straight back, but since we're already out…"
Mianmian caught the glint in his eyes and laughed. "You want to explore, don't you?"
His grin was answer enough.
