The evening had settled over Fu Xing Jia, a home that had become a sanctuary for many, thanks to the enigmatic Miss Zhan. The air was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the distant laughter of residents, a testament to the warmth and care that permeated the place. Miss Rang, the new doctor, found herself caught in a web of curiosity, her mind teeming with questions about the mysterious weird woman.
When she left, Miss Rang and the Manager were left. As she couldn't hold She asked the Home care manager," Aunty Xiang, Who is she?"
Aunty Xiang, the manager, regarded Miss Rang with a knowing smile, her eyes reflecting the wisdom of someone who had seen much in her years. "We too never knew who she is and where she is from. When we were in perplexity, she came like a Samaritan and emancipated us. Some see her as our child while some of these people see her as an incarnation of their ancestors to help them. Everyone has their perspective and belief. But I think she is a good, compassionate child with a good upbringing. Her parents must be very proud of her.", she said, her voice carrying the weight of gratitude and respect.
"That means she is doing this as these people treat her like a family and more than a family and nothing else?", Miss Rang Asked. Miss Rang listened intently, her skepticism slowly giving way to intrigue. She had come to Fu Xing Jia, not with a sense of duty but had not expected to find herself drawn into the lives of its residents so deeply.
Aunty Xiang laughed at the logic of this lady in front of her. She had long seen the reluctance in Miss Rang's eyes when she joined the Fu Xing Jia as a doctor. Maybe she is different and her worldview is different. With due care, Aunty Xiang started explaining, " If you know in what sort of situation we met, You won't say this. Well, it's already late. You better sleep early.", she said, her tone suggesting a story yet untold, a narrative that held the essence of Miss Zhan's character.
"Aunty Xiang, Don't try to divert the topic. What do you mean? Just like Miss Zhan, I wish to know my employer better to work with them. It will also help me to understand the situation of these people too. So please tell me.", Miss Rang asked.
"I better not say anymore. She will get angry if she hears it." Aunty Xiang was planning on stopping talking. But with Her pestering, She can't end the conversation. Heaving a sigh, "If you insist. But we can't possibly talk about it here. Let's go to my room to talk."
with no other choice, Aunty Xiang took Miss Rang to her room. When they arrived, Miss Rang was quite surprised. Though they call it a room, She can see that the space was designed carefully. And she suddenly recalled that not only this room But almost all the rooms of the homestay were designed carefully. She now can't judge this Miss Zhan bluntly. Though she appears carefree, Miss Rang can see the effort she put in. It piqued her curiosity on her more.
"Dr. Rang, Please have a seat. I know my room is not that good compared to yours, But I still insist you make yourself comfortable.", Aunt Xiang humbly treated her.
" You are saying that my room is different. But I don't think so. They are pretty much the same.", Miss Rang denied her words. Thinking of it, She didn't see much difference between the two rooms, except for how they were furnished.
Aunty Xiang smiled, " Dr. Rang, I guess you didn't pay attention. Didn't you realize that Your room is noise free all time? Yours is an individual house while our rooms are more in an apartment fashion. It was Miss Zhan who arranged it like that for you. Miss Zhan ordered that we shouldn't disturb you much except for the consulting hours unless and until we have an emergency. Also, She brought in all those electronic things to make your stay comfortable."
After a short silence, "Aunty Xiang, Can I ask you this. Though it might sound a little off, Who is This miss Zhan?", Miss Rang Asked out loud.
"I don't know how to answer this question as well.", Aunty Xiang said.
"Why do you say so? Don't you guys know her for at least two years by now?", She questioned.
"Yes, you are not wrong. These people know her for three years to be exact and I know her for like two years and some more months. Just like you, I came here to work. Just like you, I too know very little about Miss Zhan. It is also the reason why I brought you to my room because the old lady who shares this space with me knows the details. Wait for some time, She will be back after showering."
Understanding her situation, Miss Rang didn't mind waiting for some time after knowing that she and Aunty Xiang were no different, But she had a different question, "You have never been curious about her?"
" I was well aware of my position. So, I didn't ask about the details.", While they were talking, the door of one of the rooms was opened while a lady in her late fifty came out.
"Oh, it was Little Xiang and Miss doctor. I was wondering who is talking at this time.", The old lady said while she hang her wet towel in the hanger.