"The judge told me that because of the countless lives I saved, my good deeds were boundless," Lina explained. "I wouldn't have to face judgment and could directly cross the golden bridge to be reborn as a human, enjoying fifteen lifetimes of prosperity."
"But I remembered our promise," she continued, a playful glint in her eyes. "So, I gave up the next fourteen lifetimes of wealth and chose not to drink Granny Meng's soup. If I had, there was no way I could have found you again. How about that? Did I keep my promise?"
Old Wang, tears drying up, let out a shaky sigh. "You... you haven't changed a bit. Still so mischievous."
A hint of doubt lingered in his voice. "Why didn't you tell me sooner? I didn't want to jump to conclusions and think you were… lying."
"If I had just said I was Lina reincarnated," Lina giggled. "You probably would have thought I was crazy and avoided me, wouldn't you?"