"Is anything the matter?" Zhoucheng asked Zhan who was lost in thought. Still holding the phone in his hand which had been disconnected from the other end for a while now. "What's wrong? I hope it isn't bad news?" Zhan fought against the tears that threatened to fall. He forced a smile and met Zhoucheng's gaze.
"N-no... it isn't bad news. We should head back to grandfather's house, Cheng. The lawyer might be waiting for us there."
Cheng, still puzzled, followed Zhan's lead without objection. Zhan remained quiet in the car, lost in his thoughts. Zhoucheng sensed that Zhan's mind was elsewhere.
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When they reached the house, Tang San lawyer is already there. Like Zhoucheng, the lawyer has been visiting the house over the past few days, but it had been locked. Zhan felt relieved that the lawyer didn't ask where he went.
"And by the way, Zhan," said the lawyer after Zhan signed the documents transferring Tang San's property under his name. "I have brought the key to Tang San's safety deposit box at the bank." He handed Zhan the key. "You are familiar with the bank's procedures, including the necessary identifications and such..."
"What else is contained within the safety deposit, Attorney?" Zhan asked warily.
"You yourself said that grandpa Tang San had no money..."
The lawyer shrugged his shoulders. "For people like Tang San, memories hold the same value as precious treasures. That could be the contents of the safety box. A memoir."
Zhan could only agree to that. "We're going to the bank, Attorney. And maybe I'll be gone for a few days." He cast a glance at Zhoucheng, who was observing them quietly. Prior to their return home, he contacted Lan Corporation and learned that Lan Quiren and his son were currently on Gusu Island, accompanied by their guest. "We can discuss the renovation upon my return..."
"It's up to you, son, just give me a call then. I will take my leave now."
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"Thank you," Zhan thanked the bank manager as he placed a small box in front of him.
"You're welcome, Mr. Xiao Zhan," the manager replied politely. "Feel free to examine the content inside, should you wish to do so."
"It is not necessary, thank you." He rose from his seat and extended his hand for a handshake with the manager. Then he turned and left the bank.
"That small box, have you seen what's inside?" Zhuocheng asked when he got into the car.
"I'm just going to open it now," Zhan said. But the jewelry box was so familiar, he wanted to add it, but restrained himself.
Zhan stared at the jewelry box for a few moments before he began untying the knot of red ribbon that was wrapped around it. Just as he was about to lift the lid, he was interrupted by Zhoucheng's laughter, who exclaimed, "Dyan... dya... rann...!"
"Shut up!" Zhan grinned at Zhoucheng and he inhaled softly when he saw some pieces of Tang San's jewelry, the same ones he had previously seen on his chest drawer.
"Your grandfather's jewelry." Zhoucheng looked at the contents of the box. "Wow! Just look at those stones, Zhan. The price of those is no joke. The stones are definitely genuine."
He responded with a nod. Once again, sadness filled his entire being. Although there were not numerous jewels, the quantity was substantial enough to meet the old man's needs for the past four years. Tang San had not died a pauper. The old man just doesn't want to touch the things what he believed are for Zhan.
Zhan made an effort to suppress the sobs that threatened to escape his lips. "I do not deserve this, grandpa. I have not done what you desired. I am so sorry..."
Zhan closed his eyes and leaned back. Zhoucheng respected his silence.
Zhan opened his eyes to meet Zhoucheng's gaze.
"Can I ask a favor, Cheng?" asked Zhan.
"Anytime." Zhoucheng replied.
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