"Mr. Li Wei, what do you think of this?"
Erin looked up eagerly from the workbench and showed Li Wei the little bird in her hands. It was roughly the size of a pigeon, with a metal frame and fabric wings and body, giving it something of the look of a kite. She demonstrated its wings for him, then twisted it with both hands.
The "bird's" tail spread outward into a circular brim, while its body gradually swelled into the crown of a hat. Its wings and little head stretched flat, and in the blink of an eye, the bird kite became a black top hat decorated with wings.
Li Wei took it, put it on his head, and nodded in satisfaction.
"Very nice. I never imagined you were so good with a needle and thread, Erin."
"I didn't used to like this sort of thing, but Mother made me learn."
Erin lifted her head proudly, her face wreathed in smiles.
"She said a girl had to know how to sew and cook once she got married... she also said..."
At that, Erin's expression grew a little melancholy.
"She also said she'd give me her finest embroidery at my wedding..."
The mood sank for a moment. Fortunately, the Elevator's bell broke the awkward silence.
"Hello, Mr. Li Wei."
Inspector Lestrade stepped out of the Elevator with a broad smile. Erin hurriedly shifted her mood and went to greet him, taking the visitor's hat and coat.
"Hello, Mr. Lestrade."
"Ah, hello, Miss Erin..."
Inspector Lestrade nodded to Erin, who dutifully went off to attend to her tasks. Watching the girl's retreating figure, he chuckled.
"It seems this young lady is doing quite well."
"Very well indeed."
Li Wei was also very pleased with Erin. She was well-behaved, clever, capable, and hardworking.