The woman next to him laughed and chimed in, "Even if someone notices, it's no big deal. It's not like it's something shameful." She paused, her eyes curving into crescents. "Young man, come here. I'm curious, why did you buy so many at once? Is it for your girlfriend?"

Su Ming stammered, unable to speak. He grabbed the plastic bag and turned to leave. "Forget it! I'll go pay over there!"

With that, he hurried to another checkout counter.

Behind him, the laughter of the two women echoed.