Chapter 10
Edward Quan ·
I picked up a slice of char siu for my mother.
“Mom, the soup is delicious.”
She put some food in my bowl too. “Then have another serving.”
“You eat too.”
“I am eating.”
Outside the window, the lights in the roast-meat shop were still on.
The braising broth bubbled away in the kitchen, sending steam into the air.
Life was like a slice of char siu fresh from the oven: full of everyday warmth, and sweet with a savory fragrance.
I looked at my mother and said softly, “Things will only get better from here.”
She nodded. “Mm.”
Early the next morning, an employee called from the kitchen.
“Boss, where should this order go?”
I tied on my apron and picked up the knife.
“The Cantonese restaurant next door.”
“Manager Lin needs fifty portions today.”
“Got it!”
My mother’s voice came from outside the door.
“Xiaoyuan, the soup’s in the pot.”
I smiled. “I know, Mom.”
I used to think that when it came to family, if you just gave in a little, everything would work itself out.
Later, I understood.
Some people only think you’re easy to bully when you keep giving in.
Two hundred yuan can’t buy a twenty-table seafood banquet.
And it certainly can’t buy my conscience or self-respect.
Whoever orders the food pays for it.
Whoever causes trouble takes responsibility.
That’s the simplest truth of all.
(END)
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