Afternoon.
On the highway.
The sun had dimmed somewhat, and the weather changed without warning. Gradually, it was covered by dark clouds, making the air a little fresher and less hot.
"Teacher Jiang, are you hungry?"
"I'm all right. What about you?"
"Look at me—I'm tough. I'm fine."
"Hehe, then let's get ready to eat. At the next service area?"
"What good food could a service area possibly have?"
"We can just make do. Who cares whether it's good or not?"
"When were you planning to head back?"
"I originally thought I'd travel a little longer and take in the sights along the way, but since you're with me, I'd feel bad making you drive for me the whole trip. We should probably head toward Capital City soon."
"Hey, didn't we agree on this? I'm not in a hurry. I've been busy for half a year and I'm worn out physically and mentally. I was just looking for a chance to relax and have some fun. It's perfect to have you as company. Uh, unless you don't want to travel with me, then that's another matter. If not, I can leave the car with you. Can you drive?"
"What are you talking about? I'm happy you're keeping me company. Besides, it's inconvenient for a woman like me to hitch rides every day."
"Doesn't that settle it?"
"All right, then there's no rush to go back."
"That's more like it. Come on, let's find a restaurant."
"I heard the roasted lamb leg in the county up ahead is quite famous."
"Got it. Then we'll get off the highway up ahead. Hold on tight."
"Drive a little slower. Don't go so fast and get into another accident."
"Got it. I shall faithfully obey Teacher Jiang's imperial decree, hehe."
"You. The older you