The bonsai's branches and leaves jutted out in a shape that made it awkward to carry.
A troubled look crossed the old man's face.
"Xiao Xiao, it'll be hard for you to carry it by yourself, won't it?"
"I'll help you carry it downstairs."
"We can call a car, too."
"When we get to your place, you can ask your father to come out and help you carry it inside."
Xiao Xiao smiled and shook his head.
"Grandpa Zhang, I can manage on my own."
Before the old man could express his doubts, Xiao Xiao bent down and lifted the bonsai.
He really did look as though it was easy.
Still, the old man suspected Xiao Xiao was putting on a brave face in front of him.
He reached out, wanting to help support the bonsai.
Xiao Xiao turned slightly to the side.
"Grandpa Zhang, you don't need to help."
"It'll be more awkward with two people."
"Just watch the path ahead for me."
Since he'd been given a task—
and Xiao Xiao was right.
If he insisted on helping, he might end up getting in the young man's way.
The old man drew back his hand.
"Then be careful."
"Take it slowly."
"There's no need to hurry."
The old man kept reminding him.
He hurried a few steps ahead of Xiao Xiao.
"Keep going."
The bonsai was just tall enough to block Xiao Xiao's view.
The old man had just been told that he could help by watching the path.
The old man opened the door. He was just about to turn around and remind Xiao Xiao to set the bonsai on the cabinet in the entryway and put on his shoes when he saw Xiao Xiao straighten up, his shoes already on.