Some things didn't need to be said outright.
"Xuanxuan will love it..."
Zhang Bo was preoccupied with his cousin.
Compared to fireflies, butterflies—with their gorgeous colors, graceful postures, and fluttering flight—were clearly more popular with girls.
Xiao Xiao smiled.
His hand gave a slight shake.
The butterfly on his finger took flight.
Its outstretched wings shimmered in the sunlight.
It was as if they'd been dusted with gold.
The butterfly circled Xiao Xiao a few times.
Then it finally flew away, seemingly reluctant to leave.
"Third Brother."
Zhuge Yun suddenly had a flash of inspiration. "You're pretty good at attracting bees and butterflies."
"Fireflies, butterflies..."
"Does that mean you can attract bees too?"
"Second Brother."
Zhao Luzheng rolled his eyes.
"Do you even know what that means?"
"What?"
Zhuge Yun caught on. "Attracting bees and butterflies?"
"I mean it literally."
"Look for yourselves. Didn't Third Brother attract a butterfly just now?"
"If he can attract butterflies, I'm sure he can attract bees too."
"What's wrong with saying he attracts bees and butterflies?"
"People will misunderstand if they hear you say it like that."
Zhao Luzheng wasn't interested in Zhuge Yun's explanation.
"Fine, fine."
"I'll put it this way next time."
Zhuge Yun raised both hands and made air quotes. " 'Attracting bees and butterflies.' "
"Happy now?"
Zhao Luzheng: ...
Zhang Bo scoffed.
"Even the youngest doesn't want to talk to you anymore."
"What's wrong? What's wrong?"
Zhuge Yun shook his head with exaggerated sadness. "You people..."
"You're all so old-fashioned."
"Besides, there's no one else here."
"It's just us."
"And anyone who saw Third Brother wouldn't believe he was attracting bees and butterflies."
"He just doesn't look the part."
"Are you complimenting him or insulting him?"
Zhang