Chapter 9: Mei’s Wisdom (and a Twist)
The warm aroma of freshly brewed tea greeted Ava as she stepped into her grandmother’s kitchen. Morning sunlight streamed through the lace curtains, casting delicate patterns onto the cluttered countertops. Mei Lee sat at the table, her small frame wrapped in a floral shawl, carefully folding paper cranes with the precision of a master craftsman.
"You’re late," Mei said without looking up, her voice calm but tinged with that familiar note of disapproval.
Ava sighed, setting her tote bag on the chair before sinking into the one across from Mei. "It’s not like we scheduled this, Grandma."
"You don’t schedule wisdom," Mei replied, sliding a perfectly folded crane onto the growing pile. "It comes when you need it."
"Well, if you’re dishing out wisdom, I could use some," Ava said, leaning back and crossing her arms. "Your idea for karaoke night was... eventful."
Mei’s lips twitched with amusement. "I heard Ryan stole the show."
"He’s a menace," Ava muttered, though her tone lacked its usual bite.
"Ah," Mei said, finally looking up. "But not a boring one, hmm?"
Ava felt her cheeks warm. "Can we not talk about Ryan?"
"Fine," Mei said, pouring tea into two delicate porcelain cups. "Let’s talk about you."
Ava groaned, reaching for her cup. "Why do I feel like I’m about to be ambushed?"