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Author: Ba Jin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1981-09-01
Features: "Why is your expression always so gloomy?" Jue Xin asked with concern. Jian Yun smiled, but it was obvious that his smile was forced. He said, "Others say so, but I don't feel that way myself. I think it might be because I'm physically weak, or perhaps because my parents died so young." His lips trembled slightly, as if he were about to cry, but no tears came out. "If you're physically weak, you should exercise more. Worrying alone won't help," Jue Min said, looking up with disdain. His words were not yet finished when footsteps suddenly echoed outside. A female voice called out, "Big cousin." "Miss Qin is here," Jian Yun whispered, a faint light crossing his face. "Ah, please come in," Jue Xin quickly stood up and greeted loudly. At that moment, the door curtain stirred, and indeed it was Qin who entered, followed by her mother and servant Zhang Sheng, though Zhang Sheng quickly left again. Qin wore a light blue lake silk cotton jacket, tied with a blue skirt. Her hair fell over both ears, accentuating her oval face perfectly. Beneath her neat bangs, a pair of large eyes stood out between two well-shaped eyebrows and a slightly high nose—neither too high nor too low. These eyes were very bright, not only adding radiance to her smile but also making the room seem brighter as soon as she entered. All eyes were fixed on her. She greeted the few people inside with a smile, accompanied by her mother. Jue Xin and the others greeted them in return. Jue Min and Jian Yun quickly stood up to offer seats, while they took the two chairs facing the window. Jue Xin rang for someone to bring tea. "Mingxuan, I heard that Xinfaxiang has arrived with some new fabrics. I'd like to buy a couple of pieces. Do you think there are any suitable ones?" After talking for a few moments, Mrs. Zhang said to Jue Xin, "Yes, there are many varieties, mostly wool and silk." Without hesitation, Jue Xin replied, "Then please accompany me to take a look, would you?" "Auntie wants to go, I'll go with Auntie. Now?" Jue Xin said, standing up and looking happily at Mrs. Zhang, awaiting her reply. Mrs. Zhang said with pleasure, "Are you free now? Then let's go now." She also stood up, glancing back at Qin. Qin smiled and said, "Mom, I won't go. I'll wait for you here." She stood up and walked to the writing desk. "Alright," Mrs. Zhang said. Seeing Jue Xin lift the door curtain to let her go first, she stepped out first. Jue Xin followed her outside. "Third cousin, what book are you reading?" Qin asked, standing in front of the writing desk and looking at the magazine in Jue Hui's hands. "The New Youth, the latest issue," Jue Hui looked up at her and replied proudly. He clutched the magazine tightly, as if afraid Qin might snatch it away. Seeing his reaction, Qin smiled slightly, "Don't be afraid, I won't take it." Jue Min laughed and said, "Qin, I have a new issue of The Young China. Here, take a look." Jue Hui sat up and handed the magazine to Qin, continuing...