Mark's flight was to leave Beijing at 1:00 am on Thursday, with +16 hours of travel time, he prefered a connection flight via Toronto. The reason? he wanted to buy Amber something special on their first meeting after eight years.
On Saturday night, the whole family came together for dinner. All of Mark's favourite dishes were made. The table was lavishly decorated. Silverware were polished untill they shone brightly. White plates with gold rim and the prettiest floral vine enhances the effect of the red napkins arranged to look like a rose.
Grandpa Lu took his seat and everyone followed. Grandma Ann signaled for serving to be started. The housemaids served everyone with wonton soup and everyone prayed and started their meal. Light conversation started and a happy environment was created. But Mark was a bundle of nerves. He kept on shaking his leg, fidgeting with his spoon or playing with his food whenever someone points it out.
Finally it was 8 pm; time to leave for the airport. The drive was an hour long but it seemed like time had slowed down. Waiting for someone or something to happen moments before it happens is the longest time of wait. This was what Mark realised that day.