Dinner in Las Vegas (4)

Xiaohui is sitting on the ground with a plate in her hand, observing everything in silence. They all look friendly. Happy. Laughing and teasing each other, but there is no malice. Some appear to be young, preteens maybe, and they are joking and having fun with members of the army who are probably in their twenties and thirties.

Xiaohui is coming from an environment where hierarchy based on seniority is strictly respected, and she finds it fascinating that all these people (about twenty years apart in age) are interacting like equals.

"Is this seat taken?"

Daniel's voice startled her.

Xiaohui looked up at him and then in the direction he pointed at, and she was not sure where he sees a seat. It's just ground. She gestured that he could sit if he wants.

"Hi, I am Daniel."