Madam Xiao complained that Xiao Xiao had gone to the hospital to visit a patient without bringing flowers.
Flowers always lifted a patient's spirits.
When Xiao Xiao returned to the hospital room, Old Master Zhao was back.
The old man in the bed smiled broadly when he saw Xiao Xiao walk in.
"I knew it was you as soon as I saw that pastry box."
"Have you been here long?"
"Sorry about the timing. I was out getting some sun."
"Perfect timing. I just changed the water."
Xiao Xiao smiled as he set the vase on the table.
"These flowers are lovely."
Old Master Zhao beamed.
Their colors were understated, but they still brightened eyes accustomed to the dreary hues of a hospital room.
Beautiful things always lifted people's spirits.
"I'm glad you like them."
Xiao Xiao adjusted the flower stems.
"I do."
Old Master Zhao nodded. "Next time I visit your family's teahouse, I'll thank your mother in person for choosing this bouquet."
"Sure."
Xiao Xiao smiled. "The Xiao Family Teahouse will be delighted to welcome you again."
Old Master Zhao paused.
Then he burst into laughter.
"Haha!"
"Good."
"Once I'm discharged, I'll definitely come by your family's teahouse and impose on you."
"Young Friend Xiao Xiao, your school break is coming up, isn't it?"
The old man sat on the hospital bed.
Xiao Xiao raised the head of the bed for him.
"Thank you."
The old man leaned back against the bed.
His features relaxed.
"Mm."
Xiao Xiao sat back down in the chair beside the bed. "The long National Day holiday is almost here."
"Do you have any plans for the holiday?"
The old man's question made Xiao Xiao suspect there was something behind it.
He shook his head.
"Nothing in particular."