The elders were visibly reluctant to let Little Fei leave, but when they heard what was happening at the veterinary clinic, their disappointment turned into concern.
"Oh dear, poor Ice Cream," Grandma Li murmured, already distressed on the cat's behalf.
"I'm sorry. I'll bring Little Fei again next time," Elena said apologetically.
"Xiulan, don't apologize," Grandma Li replied, patting her hand. "Go quickly. I hope dear Ice Cream is alright."
Huang Yuyan turned to her younger son. "Drive safely. You have a child in the car."
"Don't worry, Mom," Jin Yang answered obediently.
Grandpa Lu, however, had different priorities.
"Wait, wait! Little Fei can't leave empty-handed!" He began piling gifts into the child's arms. "This is from Great-Grandpa Lu. And this one. And this. And this too. Oh! And this!"
Treats, toys, picture books, tiny clothes, shoes. It was as if a miniature department store had exploded into the foyer.
