Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction Group 3 | Page 45

“Rich, but not without dignity.” The captain retaliated. “Understood.”
You untied the scarf and dropped it.
“There.”
Petrified.
“You…” the man seemed at a loss for words. “You’re a haizi. A… xiaonuer. ”
“So?” Scowling.
“Why is one so young risking themselves?” Stunned, he guiltily compared his fancy attire to yours.
“I have no other option.”
“The emperor allows this?” He looked outraged. “You are children! You must be protected!”
“Cruel times.” You warily studied him—that had been an unexpected reaction.
“You do not have education? Better clothes? Luxury?”
You darkened. Zhenghe said of things nobody on the ship could afford, things he thought other people
could afford but actually could not. “Not everyone can live luxuriously and wear silk. What I’m doing now
is for survival. There is no choice upon the matter. Unlike you, who’s been offered everything on silver
platters, I must do anything to support my family.”
Silence.
“Answering you, Captain, I cannot afford luxury . It’s a cruel world.”
Zhenghe ’s eyebrows knit. “Take it.”
Astounded, you snapped towards him.
“Take it.” He repeated. “Take everything. I cannot stand to watch youth live agonizingly while I am resting
at my home with unnecessary things. Take it.”
“I…” It was your turn for silence. Your mouth moved wordlessly like a yu out of water.
“Yes…” Zhenghe looked distressed. “Not enough…Please, I wish you luck with gifts.” He walked
forwards and pressed something into your hand—a jade hairpin, embroidered with gleaming gold. “This was
for a friend’s wife, but I see you need it more.” He closed your fingers over it. “You carry wisdom, young
one.”
“I…thank you.” You bowed. “I’m in your debt.”
“No.” He replied. “The country is in yours. I am in yours. Thank you for teaching me. Thank you for
sharing your wisdom. Thank you for opening my eyes.”
“You flatter me.” You responded. “Until we meet again.”
“Until we cross paths.” He bowed. “ Tianfei be with you.”
Then he retreated to his cabin.
“ Tianfei be with you.” You responded, and turned, swinging over to your ship.
“ Zhihao. ”
“Yes?”
“No more stealing.” You said in realization.
He broke out grinning. “No more.”
And the two of you watched the sunset, the peace settling at last.