Yunying slung her bag over her shoulder, slipped her phone into her hand, and made her way down the stairs, each step slow but graceful, even if her legs still felt a little like overcooked noodles.
The smell of freshly brewed tea and warm soy milk drifted from the dining area. Jinxing sat at the table, already dressed for the day, scrolling through something on his tablet.
Auntie Ma was laying out dishes, steamed buns, eggs, and porridge. When she saw Yunying, the older woman smiled and gave a small bow.
"Good morning, Young Madam."
Yunying returned the gesture politely. "Morning, Auntie Ma."
Jinxing glanced up just as Yunying adjusted her bag on her shoulder. "You're not having breakfast?"
She shook her head lightly. "Can't. I'm the guest of honor at the family meeting. If I'm late, they'll probably start sacrificing goats in my name."
A corner of his mouth lifted at that. "Then I'll drop you off."
