The air became awkward and tense for a moment.
Maureen said, "The teacher will review the test papers in the afternoon.
We should head back early. I have to leave in half an hour."
Liam nodded and said coldly, "Yes, we should get going.
Let's not delay the main affair."
The two of them began to walk side by side towards the hotel. Suddenly, Liam rummaged through his single-strap bag and pulled out a stick of golden pen. Under the sunshine, the golden pen glowed with a sparkling Sheen.
He held it quietly in his hand and offered it.
Just beyond the tree-lined road is traffic noise, mostly obscured by Liam's tall figure.
Only tranquility and the passage of time remain.
A sugar-coated hawthorn stick is wrapped in clean plastic wrap, which is further covered in a layer of newspaper.
The exposed top hawthorn is smeared with honey syrup, and its rich red exterior has a hint of golden, looking both sour and sweet.
