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 The Dragon's Pearl Excerpt

That night between songs Mai-ling had drinks with dozens of men who came to wish her farewell including Mr. Chang.  All pressed money and gifts onto her and she duly sent them back to her room to be packed without even looking or opening them to see what they were.  When the last song was over she rushed to her dressing room knowing she was late.

"Mai-ling . . . "  The maid Kuai Hua started to scold.  She was Mai-ling's cousin, the only servant she wasn't given as a gift and she was not bound by the strict conventions that the others were.

"I know I know Mr. Chang had to say a proper farewell.  He bought the club a drink and toasted me until he couldn't stand on his own two feet.  I had to see him to his car safely.  Hand me that beige traveling suit."  She said as she slipped behind the changing screen.

"I wish I had a rich old man unofficially adopt me as his daughter."

"I thought you wanted a husband dear." 

Kuai Hua grinned.  "That too." 

Mai-ling laughed as the door flew open without a knock.  "Have you seen Mr. Chang?"  Mr. Li demanded to the figure that the shadow of which could easily be seen as bare behind the screen.

"Of course I've seen him.  I had to help him into his car so he didn't pass out in the lounge and have your men riffle through his pockets.  He left not ten minutes ago."  Mr. Li was quiet for a moment.  "Why couldn't you have booked a ship that left at noon?  This is damn inconvenient to board before seven when you work until early in the morning."

Mr. Li ignored her complaint.  "Did he give you anything?"

"Doesn't Father Chang always give me something even if I am not going anywhere?  Money and some dresses for the trip ones that don't show more skin than they cover.  I sent them back so Kuai Hua could have them put in the car." 

Mr. Li turned to go slowly his mind on other things.  "Are you sure you have to go?" 

Mai-ling stepped from behind the screen in only a close cut slip.  It took his mind off his worries for a moment.  "Damn it I didn't ask to go.  You're sending me remember!  Your club can last two months without me.  You fleece enough money from your gambling tables without me to draw them in.  Let me finish dressing and go on your business."

"Don't be mad Mai-ling."

"Goodbye Mr. Li I'll see you when I get back."  She shooed him out and pulled on the dress.  "Come on let's get out of here before he really does change his mind.  Heaven is to be away from him for an entire two months."  Mai-ling quickly buttoned her dress.  They grabbed the last things and slipped out the back door giggling like they were doing something wrong.