Meggie seemed especially cheerful today, constantly asking Bella to go instruct the kitchen to prepare Emily’s favorite dishes.

"Oh, and make sure they prepare a pot of duck soup, with ginseng, astragalus, and goji berries. It's great for women, both nourishing and beautifying," Meggie said, examining Emily's face closely, looking a little sad. "Why have you lost weight again?"

Emily kept her gentle smile, comforting her, "I was dieting."

"No more dieting, young lady," Meggie scolded gently. ...