Liu Yunche showed not a trace of embarrassment. The corners of his mouth even lifted slightly as he said:
"Miss Xuanyi, you flatter me."
"This item..." Lin Xuanyi paused.
Then she changed tack and smiled.
"Ordinarily, we wouldn't allow a purchase on credit. But Brother Liu is exceptionally gifted, and I'd like to forge a good connection with you."
Afraid Liu Yunche would say something startling again, Lin Xuanyi fixed her eyes on his.
"But only one item."
Liu Yunche smiled calmly and nodded.
"Then thank you, Miss Xuanyi. I'll take this Redfire Red Lotus."
Lin Xuanyi closed the treasure box and pushed it toward him.
She also handed him a small token patterned with gold. "Brother Liu, this is the Myriad Treasures Pavilion's Gold-Character Token. From now on, you'll receive a ten-percent discount on purchases here."
Liu Yunche accepted the token and treasure box, then cupped his hands in thanks. "Thank you, Miss Xuanyi."
Only then did Le Qingrou catch on. "Sister Xuanyi, have you taken a fancy to my senior brother?"
Lin Xuanyi was not offended. Instead, she covered her mouth and laughed. "A young prodigy like Brother Liu would naturally set hearts fluttering."
Liu Yunche lightly flicked his fingertips without thinking. His expression remained unruffled, and he made no attempt to answer their teasing. Silently, he tucked the treasure box containing the Redfire Red Lotus safely into his robes.
Then he cupped his hands, rose, and took his leave of Lin Xuanyi.
Lin Xuanyi personally escorted the two of them out of the Myriad Treasures Pavilion. Standing atop the stone steps, she quietly watched the white-clad figure walk away.
The young man carried himself with an upright, gentle bearing and walked at an unhurried pace. Though he did nothing but stroll down the street, he possessed an