Grandma Liang had decided to step out that morning, leaving Chen at home with Yun Hu sprawled lazily on the floor, occasionally batting at a stray toy. The crisp air carried the scent of the approaching autumn, and Grandma Liang felt it was the perfect day to wander to the bookstore.
She strolled along familiar streets, the rhythm of her steps light and steady. At the bookstore she went to the particular side for the particular type of books then, she approached the counter with a gentle mischieving smile. "I'd like this one, please," she said, handing over a novel that had caught her eye.
The bookkeeper, a friendly middle-aged woman who had seen her many times before, giggled softly as she took the book. "Ah, this story is really interesting! I've read it, it has many plots with perfect chemistry.Make sure to enjoy it thoroughly," she said, wrapping it carefully in brown paper. "You'll be curled up with a good tea and this story in no time, I'm sure."
They both give each other knowing look.
Grandma Liang left the shop, carefully holding her purchase. As she walked down the street, her steps slowed slightly in surprise when she noticed another familiar figure: Xiao Yushen, she has known him because he has come their home few times before,already standing outside another bookstore, deeply engrossed in a thick academic volume. His brow was furrowed, and he seemed completely absorbed in what he was reading.
"Xiao Yushen," she called softly, a note of warmth in her voice. "Why don't you join me for some tea at my house? I've got a fresh pot brewing."
Xiao's head snapped up, and for a moment, he looked startled. His mind was already heavy these days, weighed down by decisions about his next steps, and he hadn't intended to meet anyone, let alone step into social interactions. But as always, no one could resist the gentle insistence of an elder, especially someone as sweet as Grandma Liang.
"I… uh… alright," he replied, adjusting the strap of his bag. With a resigned sigh, he followed her, knowing there was little he could do to refuse.
They walked together, chatting quietly about books and tea blends, their conversation calm and leisurely.
He asked grandma which book did you bought?
She coughed awkwardly hiding book and said just some typical grandma thing novel haha.
Xiao said oh and start talking about something else.
It was peaceful, a rare interlude in Xiao's otherwise tense routine.
Meanwhile, Juri and Zhou Kai were not far away. The arcade had been their afternoon haunt, but now they wandered along the street when Juri's sharp eyes caught sight of the familiar pair.
"Professor Xiao?" Juri whispered, nudging Zhou Kai.
Zhou Kai turned and followed Juri's gaze.
Xiao noticed them too and smiled politely. "Oh, these are some of Chen's students," he said, gesturing toward Zhou Kai and Juri. "Zhou Kai and Juri smith."
Grandma Liang's eyes twinkled as she extended a hand. "Hello, young men. It's lovely to meet you. You've been in care of my grandson, have you?" xiao continued " she's chen's grandma".
Zhou Kai's eyes practically lit up. "Yes, ma'am," he said, slightly in awe. He had heard about Grandma Liang
"Grandma Liang," he breathed, voice full of awe. "You're Professor Chen's grandmother? You're really… beautiful."
Grandma Liang chuckled softly at the compliment, her eyes twinkling. She reached out and patted Zhou Kai gently on the shoulder. "Oh, this kid," she teased, her voice playful. "You're cheeky, aren't you? Come, come, you want a free meal at your Professor Chen's home? With handmade tea, of course—freshly brewed and carefully served by me!"
Zhou Kai's eyes lit up, and Juri immediately mirrored his excitement, nodding vigorously. The thought of a warm home, good food, and Grandma Liang's attention was enough to make them both high-spirited.
Grandma Liang's steps grew even lighter, feeling the warmth of the moment. It wasn't just about the tea or the food; it was about taking strays—little ones who wandered into her life—and giving them a safe, nurturing place to feel at home. Today, it seemed, the strays were not only the four-legged kind, but also two young boys and 1 professor wandering near her wanting petting and treats from her.