The gifts for her colleagues at the Lijing Hotel were simple: a pack of matcha candies paired with a Kyoto postcard.
For important clients, she gave premium matcha gift boxes, beautifully wrapped in elegant washi paper and tied with hemp twine—both pretty and understated.
"Thank you, Sophie! The candies are really delicious! Next time I go to Japan, I'll bring some back too."
"The Japanese tea set you gave me is so beautiful! I've already started using it!"
"Is this lacquerware handmade? Wow, it's incredibly exquisite!"
Colleagues and clients sent thank-you messages one after another. After replying to them all, Sophie rubbed her sore fingers and wrists, finally letting out a long breath.
She leaned back in her chair. "This family trip to Japan was truly rewarding."
Ned walked over, sat down beside her, and gently massaged her stiff thumb.
Sophie closed her eyes, savoring the moment.
