It wasn't until much, much later that Quinn Winters would finally understand. The smartest and most perceptive person in the Winters family had always been Sidney Winters, not him. By the time he realized it, it was far too late for regrets; everything was already beyond remedy.
...
That evening, the Ashworth Residence was abuzz with activity. After dinner, everyone gathered in the living room, filling the air with non-stop laughter and cheerful chatter.
On New Year's Eve, nearly every TV channel was showing comedy skits, variety shows, or the ever-popular Spring Festival Gala. However, few were actually watching. The group was huddled together, mostly just chatting and joking around.
The coffee table was laden with an assortment of pastries, fruits, and snacks. On the sofa, the two patriarchs continued their unfinished game of chess. The matriarchs, meanwhile, had gathered with Sylvia Blaine and the other wives to chat, while the men congregated nearby, talking and drinking.
