One day in late August, the purple chrysanthemums Jing Xin had planted bloomed a month early. When she woke up and saw the fragrant flowers dotted with dewdrops, she was thrilled and wanted to give the pot to Jiang’s mother.
During a previous conversation, Jing Xin had heard Jiang’s mother express her love for chrysanthemums, describing them as elegant and pure, unlike flashy roses and peonies.
After breakfast, Jing Xin took a bus for over an hour to the Jiang home. Upon arrival, she found Jiang’s mother watering flowers in the front garden. Excited to see Jing Xin, she put down the watering can and greeted her with a smile, “Jing Xin, it’s been a long time since you’ve been here.”
“Auntie, I’ve been busy working part-time at McDonald’s, so I haven’t had much time to visit. This morning, I noticed the purple chrysanthemums I planted had bloomed early, so I brought a pot. I remembered you love them.”
Jing Xin placed the flowers on the grass and picked up a nearby watering can, gently sprinkling water to enhance their beauty.
Jiang’s mother joined her, examining the flowers and her affection for Jing Xin growing. She took Jing Xin’s hand and said, “You’re so thoughtful, coming all this way to bring me flowers. Look how beautifully they bloom, just like your youth.”
They sat on a stone bench in the garden. Jing Xin had walked a bit after getting off the bus, and a few beads of sweat appeared on her forehead.
Noticing this, Jiang’s mother quickly stood up, “Wait here, Jing Xin. I’ll brew some tea for you.”
Last month, an old friend brought high mountain cloud fog tea from Taiwan, which I’ve been keeping in the refrigerator for you to try.
Jing Xin knew Jiang’s mother truly liked her. Every time she had something good, she saved it for her and cared for her meticulously. This motherly love warmed her heart, often making her feel deeply moved yet unable to describe it in words.
Jiang’s mother continued, “My health is getting worse. I can’t let go of Xiang Yang. That child is pitiful; he’s had a hard life. Jing Xin, do you have time? I want to tell you about Xiang Yang’s story.”
