The next day was much like the day before, still so stiflingly hot that it was hard to breathe.
Wen Ning was crouching behind the counter, searching for a box of tea leaves that had been shoved into some forgotten corner.
Suddenly, he heard footsteps at the shop entrance.
He looked up and saw Grandma Li standing in the doorway.
Just like yesterday, she wore a simple, short-sleeved floral blouse, her hair neatly combed, and carried that faded floral cloth bag in her left hand.
"Grandma Li?"
Wen Ning stood up from behind the counter and set the tea tin down on it.
"You're here. Come in and have a seat."
Only when Grandma Li saw his smile did she step over the threshold, her gaze sweeping around the shop.
"Where is everyone else?"
"They've all gone out."
Wen Ning came around the counter and pulled out a nearby chair.
"Have a seat. I'll get you some water."
"Oh, no need. I was just passing by. I don't really know anyone around here, so yours is the only place I can come and sit for a while."
Despite her words, Grandma Li held on to the back of the chair and slowly sat down, placing the floral cloth bag on her lap.
Wen Ning noticed that little detail.
He had noticed it yesterday, too. Wherever Grandma Li went, that bag never left her side.
He brought over a glass of warm water, set it on the coffee table in front of her, then sat in the chair opposite.
"Grandma Li, did you sleep well last night?"
"Very well, very well."
Grandma Li nodded quickly, but her gaze flickered. She lowered her head to drink, using the glass to avoid Wen Ning's eyes.
Wen Ning did not press her. Instead, he