Nan Jiaojiao expressed her understanding; she didn't like farewells either, even if it wasn't tearful, it was uncomfortable inside.
"Grandpa Qiu, this is for you."
Nan Jiaojiao handed Uncle Qiu a string of beads, which she had picked out at the ancient town the day before. She feared Uncle Qiu might not accept it, so she hurriedly added, "It's not anything valuable, just something from a small stall, just a little trinket."
It's not that she was stingy; they had everything. Uncle Qiu had spent his lifetime with Elder Nan and had seen countless treasures. If she were to give him an antique string of beads, with her lack of appreciation for such things, it would have been making a fool of herself in front of an expert.
Uncle Qiu immediately put the beads on, "Be careful on the road, give the old man a call when you arrive to let him know you're safe."
"Okay, Grandpa, I leave him in your care."
"What care, it's just what I'm supposed to do."
