An Ning took out the beaded necklace again and placed it on the cloth for the old man to inspect.
This time, his inspection was even more meticulous.
It wasn't just the goateed old man by himself. Someone else came out from the back room to inspect it with him.
Only after both men confirmed its authenticity did they begin to discuss money with An Ning.
"Cash, or a bank transfer?"
"I have a passbook."
Using her schoolbag as cover, An Ning took out her passbook and showed it to the old man.
"Alright. We'll have to go to the bank together. Do you want to hold on to this, or leave it with me for safekeeping?"
"I'll leave it here."
This wasn't An Ning feigning magnanimity, but a display of extreme self-confidence.
The old man could see that, and he smiled with a certain scholarly grace.
"Excellent. It's true what they say about heroes coming from the younger generation. Let's go together."
