His insistence left me somewhat bewildered, and he simply answered, "If you insist on it, I can only admit that, yes, I am really a woman with a story, but a horrible story."

He laughed and raised his glass. "Dry."

I thank him for not asking. Although I haven't known him for a long time, I've got to know him. He's a man who knows how to behave.

We drank happily, and the distress in our hearts gradually dissipated. Gao Zi-an was very good at creating atmosphere. He said many interesting things, which made me laugh. I have to admit that this is the only time in years that I...