Eat a Bowl of Tea

Mei Oi and Ben Loy move to Stanton, Connecticut, to the relief of both of their families. Mei Oi herself is anxious to leave New York, feeling the need for a fresh start away from the city. Remembering Ben Loy’s violent outburst, however, she is reluctant to agree to his plans immediately and acts as if she is unsure about the move. Ben Loy hopes that leaving New York will not only separate Mei Oi from her lover but also help him forget her indiscretions. A few weeks after the move, Chin Yeun visits the couple and is unable to hide his admiration for Mei Oi. Ben Loy is flattered by his friend’s envy and doesn’t notice Mei Oi flirting back. Chin Yeun fantasizes about having an affair with her.

Ben Loy’s cousin Wing Sim asks his wife, Eng Shee, to visit Mei Oi in the couple’s new apartment. Eng Shee initially resists, harshly criticizing Mei Oi for the rumors of her infidelity, but her father-in-law, Wang Chuck Ting, insists on the visit. Eng Shee goads Mei Oi by talking openly about unfaithful wives and illegitimate children. Mei Oi refuses to react, unwilling to give Eng Shee the satisfaction of upsetting her.