That's how they referred to them now, as taitai—ladies of luxury who could not be called housewives because, aside from cooking the occasional meal, they did no housework at all.
-- Narrator (chapter 2)

Importance: This describes the role that Lina fulfills now that she lives as an expat wife in a serviced apartment complex with no responsibilities. One part of her is bored and unfulfilled by this lifestyle, but another part of her likes the luxury and has grown accustomed to the privilege.

Love...is not some mysterious force that comes from nowhere. It requires time and commitment, both of which are in your control.
-- Fang Lijian (chapter 5)

Importance: This is what Lina's dad told her when she was a young girl. This was not her view of love, and she wanted romance and passion. However, she comes to love Wei due to their commitment to one another, the time they spend building a life together, and...