New Year's Eve dinner passed amid a burst of laughter, and a few people tidied up and planned to go to an open place to set off fireworks.
Even though they didn't spend New Year's Eve with family, they all felt quite happy, and for some, being with family really wasn't necessary.
"New Year's Eve is still livelier back home; abroad, it's quite lonely."
The wind outside was chilly, and Cecilia wrapped her coat tighter around herself as she sighed.
Chinatown is a bit more lively, but the atmosphere just doesn't match that of back home. Looking at the brightly lit streets, Cecilia felt nostalgic.
Home is still better, with friends around, and everyone speaking familiar languages instead of those awkward English words.
Though she could speak English fluently, it ultimately didn't feel intimate.
In a foreign land, it's easy for sights to stir emotions.
Returning home now, everything felt familiar to Cecilia.
"Of course, no place is as good as one's own home."
