The moment the two entered the courtyard, several gazes locked firmly onto them. Startled, Xiao Yan hurriedly let go of Xun Er's hand, nearly raising his hands in surrender. Fortunately, he had seen plenty of the world—though he truly had never seen anything like this—and managed to keep his expression composed.
"Why are you standing there? Come sit!" Liuli brought the last dish to the table, glanced at Xiao Yan standing stiffly in place, and smiled.
Eight people—seven women and one man—plus little Xiao Xiao. The seating arrangement required considerable thought.
Zi Yan was rather simple-minded, with eyes only for delicious food, and naturally took the children's table. Thus, she sat on the side beside Xiao Xiao.
Qing Lin was close to Xiao Yi Xian, so they likewise occupied one side. Nalan Yanran understood that her relationship with Xiao Yan was ultimately one of friendship, so she neither fought nor competed, obediently taking a seat beside Qing Lin. Fortunately, the Eight Immortals Table was large enough that the three women were not crowded together.
The real issue lay with Xiao Yan, Liuli, Xun Er, and Cai Lin.
The three breathtaking women, each beautiful in her own way, said nothing. Yet in their seemingly casual exchanged glances, a faint smell of gunpowder still lingered.
Cold sweat beaded on Xiao Yan's forehead. Standing beside the table, he had no idea where to move.
Think, you stupid brain. Think!
After a long while, he licked his lips and said dryly, "Xiao Xiao and I haven't seen each other in a long time either. I'll sit beside her and look after her today..."
"Okay, okay!" Xiao Xiao excitedly raised her hand in agreement. At her young age, she could not understand the open and secret struggle between adults.
Cai Lin folded her arms across