But Shen Qing looked as if she'd heard something hilarious. "Do you think," she said, "that I said what I did just now to change your opinion of me?"
Old Liu didn't speak, but the expression on his face said it all.
Shen Qing's lips curved slightly. "Whether Mr. Liu is pretending to be ignorant or truly is, I have never believed that mere words can change a person's mind.
"The only thing that can earn sincerity is sincerity itself... and..."
Shen Qing's gaze dropped, as if casually sweeping over the little boy who was peeking out furtively from behind Old Liu, another stone in hand, ready to throw at her. "...strength," she finished coolly.
The little boy felt an inexplicable shiver run through his young heart. His hand went limp, and the stone tumbled to the ground.
Only then did Old Liu notice his grandson's antics. His expression darkened, and he barked, "Liu Runsheng, you cause any more trouble, and you'll be standing in the corner all night!"
