Lin Yuan held tightly onto Qian Renxue's arm, gripping so hard that she couldn't break free.
"Where are you going?"
With a slight tug, Lin Yuan pulled Qian Renxue to a halt. He turned to look at her faintly flustered profile, his tone carrying an air of complete certainty.
"You've already come all this way. Why rush back and wear yourself out?"
"Stay and have a meal with us."
Qian Renxue bit her lower lip, her chest rising and falling faintly. She didn't look at Lin Yuan, instead glancing instinctively toward Bibi Dong, who stood not far away.
Bibi Dong remained where she was, saying nothing to ask her to stay and nothing to send her away. Her beautiful eyes simply rested on Qian Renxue, calm and serene.
Seeing that Qian Renxue was still hesitating, Lin Yuan didn't give her the chance to come up with another excuse. He tightened his grip and pulled her toward the rear garden.
"What are you dawdling for? Don't let the food get cold."
Half dragged along by him, Qian Renxue could only follow obediently, no matter how awkward she felt.
The rear garden was exceptionally quiet and secluded.
Several exquisite Soul Tool lanterns hung from the branches, casting a gentle glow. A round table, polished to a glossy smoothness, stood in the middle of the garden.
The tabletop was laden with more than a dozen steaming dishes. Lin Yuan led Qian Renxue to the table and swiftly surveyed the spread.
Braised earth-dragon meat, steamed snowfish, and several exquisitely prepared poultry dishes. Without exception, every dish was made to suit Lin Yuan's favorite tastes.
The maids set out the bowls and chopsticks with practiced efficiency, then withdrew from the garden without a sound.
The vast garden was left with just the three of them.