The saleswoman stood to one side, a smile on her face, with the composure of someone who had seen it all before. She gestured. "Mr. Wang, Miss Wei, this way for the paperwork, please."
There was actually very little left to do. Wei Zijin had come yesterday, and the temporary plates and all the fees had already been taken care of. Wang Xiaoliang accepted a heavy plastic document pouch containing all the vehicle's paperwork, with a set of temporary plates standing out among it.
The saleswoman led them to the car. "Mr. Wang, please take the driver's seat, and I'll explain the basic controls." Wang Xiaoliang climbed in somewhat stiffly. The leather seat immediately enveloped him, cradling his body with gentle support. The leather of the steering wheel felt so fine in his hands that he could hardly bear to let go. He listened as the saleswoman explained everything, from starting the engine and shifting gears to the various function buttons. She clearly explained every button and every indicator light. Wang Xiaoliang tried desperately to remember it all, but only starting the engine and shifting gears stayed in his head. He could figure the rest out later. Wasn't there a manual, too?
"Mr. Wang, you can try starting it now." Wang Xiaoliang nodded. He pressed the brake and pushed the start button. The engine gave a low rumble, quiet but pleasing to the ear. The car trembled slightly, and so did his heart.
With the sharp pop of a confetti cannon, the handover ceremony ended.
They waited for the saleswoman to remove the red silk.
Wang Xiaoliang got into the driver's seat.
He brushed his palm over the steering wheel. Wei Zijin was already in the passenger seat with her Safety Harness fastened. She smiled at him. "Honey, let's go."