Chapter One: After the Flashbulbs

By the time Qiao turned back, it was gone. “Take a wrap photo for us,” Qiao said. She started to hand over her phone, then noticed the old camera around Jianwei's neck. “That still works?” “Yes. Film lens, digital back. The colors come out strange.” Its black edges had been worn pale by Jianwei's mother. She rarely used it in front of others. “Strange is good. Every picture today looks like an advertisement.” Qiao pulled Wen to her feet. Wen did not seem to enjoy improvised group pictures, but she did not refuse. Through Jianwei's viewfinder, Qiao grinned with her teeth showing while Wen held a standard fifteen-degree smile. Behind them, the makeup mirrors repeated both women in a shrinking row.