Yan Sinian's home lacked the festive atmosphere of the New Year, as neither father nor son cared much for formalities, and there were no women in the house to organize things.
They simply put up a pair of couplets as a token gesture.
Then one stayed in the hospital, and the other went out of town for a study exchange before the New Year.
Yan Sinian had also just returned a few days ago, with his suitcase still in the living room.
The exterior of the suitcase, however, was wiped so clean that it bore no trace of travel weariness.
"You should eat sweets during the New Year," Yan Sinian said as he handed Yue Qingqing a plate of confections.
They were hard on the outside, and a bit sticky on the teeth when bitten into, yet exceptionally chewy.
"This is Mareng Candy, a specialty from there."
Yan Sinian introduced Mareng Candy to Yue Qingqing, explaining that it was said to be a food prepared by caravan travelers on the early Silk Road for long journeys.
