"Why did you two take so long to get here?" Zheng Fang complained to Tan Yunlong and Tan Wenbin, her arms laden with bags.
The long-distance bus she took had arrived long ago, and after waiting for quite some time, she was even bothered by the persistent drivers of black cars asking if she needed a ride.
Tan Yunlong replied, "I was already downstairs at your son’s dormitory by noon."
Zheng Fang asked, "Isn't your son in the dorm?"
"He is, and I just happened to see him when he came out."
"Then why did you..."
"He went out to eat and walk with a girl. I was waiting for him to come back."
"Then you... should wait."
Zheng Fang patted Tan Wenbin, who was loading his luggage onto the car, and asked, "Son, what kind of girl is she? Tell me about her."
"Mom, it’s not what you think; she's just a friend."
"Aren't couples just friends who become something more?"
"Mom, can’t there be pure boy-girl friendships?"
"Does that girl look ugly?"
"Mom, really, it's nothing. I've put the things away, now hurry and get in the car. Dad, drive quickly. We need to take Comrade Zheng Fang out for a nice meal to welcome her!"
"Which restaurant? Haven't you already eaten? Let's first head back to your dad's place. I need to tidy up for him; I can't imagine the mess he's making all alone."
"Exactly!" Tan Wenbin chimed in immediately.