Side Jobs

"Sweet pills. Take one each month for half a year," Fang Yuan suggested with a confident smile, "I assure you that your health will flourish, ensuring a lifespan of 100 years."

Laughter filled the room. "Hahaha, is such a wondrous thing possible in this world? It must come at a lofty price, isn't that so? Yuanyuan, pray tell, where did you chance upon such a treasure?" Old Master Bo marveled at his granddaughter-in-law's unexpected thoughtfulness. At his age, his wants were few, but robust health was his unspoken desire. Longevity had become his coveted dream.

"May I partake immediately?" Impatient fingers swiftly uncorked the dainty porcelain vial. The intention was to retrieve a single pill, yet in his excitement, he tipped out a small mound instead.