Guan Manling left with a smile in this summer full of blossoms.
In the end, she couldn't finish her novel.
Perhaps it was a bit regretful, or maybe it was relief.
Old Wu was stronger than anyone expected, quietly cleaning Guan Manling and dressing her in the military uniform she wore at their wedding.
He managed her funeral, comforted her parents and siblings, and received the guests who came to mourn.
He maintained a husband's necessary composure and thoroughness, arranging everything in perfect order.
Later, he took Guan Manling's ashes back to the Great Northern Wilderness.
He buried her under the birch tree.
Their names were still carved there, now a bit taller than when they were first inscribed.
"Lingling, we have returned..."
"Don't be afraid. Wait for me, once I've taken care of everything, I'll come find you..."
Beside the new grave, there was a pack of jujube flower cake and a bundle of orchid.
...
