The chopsticks lay on the table. No one moved.
It wasn't that they didn't want to eat. They simply couldn't chew anymore.
Su Li looked over the table full of dishes and fell silent for two seconds. Then he lifted his wineglass and clinked it once each with Saina's and Elena's.
"Let's drink."
Saina's hand trembled badly. Su Li brought the cup to her lips, and she took a small sip.
Elena held her own cup. Her arm began shaking halfway up, and Elonore reached over to support her elbow. Elena gave a soft huff and swallowed that mouthful of wine.
The four cups touched above the table.
Clink.
A very soft sound.
Elena set down her cup and leaned back in her chair. Her eyes were half-open as she looked at the old map of Ginkgo Alley hanging on the wall opposite.
"I've earned enough in this life."
Her voice was faint, as though she were merely saying the weather was nice today.
"Seven cabinets full of account books. Started with nothing and made it to number one in the kingdom." She paused, the corner of her mouth twisting. "Worth it."
Saina turned to look at her, then looked at Su Li.
Her eyes were astonishingly clear today.
"In the next life..." Saina opened her mouth. "You'll still make braised pork ribs with green beans for me, right?"
Su Li set down his glass.
"Sure."
"Two and a half spoonfuls of soy sauce."
"I remember."
"The green beans have to be tender. The old ones are too tough to chew."
"I know."
Satisfied, Saina nodded and rested her head against the back of her chair.
Elena suddenly spoke. "Why do you only make it for her?"
Su Li glanced at her.
"You'll have your share too. Braised fish, no