Fallen Flowers Have Intent (4)

Several days earlier, in that same tranquil bamboo pavilion, the breeze stirred gently, rustling the bamboo leaves. The two seated across from each other were intently discussing a matter of utmost importance.

Zhu Yaoyao sat cross-legged on the stone bench in a languid, carefree posture. One hand supported her cheek while the other toyed with a lush green bamboo leaf, turning it nimbly between her fingers like a lively emerald bird.

Su Miaoxi sat somewhat awkwardly opposite her, continuously twisting the hem of her clothes between her hands until fine wrinkles formed in her silk skirt. Her cheeks were faintly flushed, like peach blossoms just opening in spring.

"If you want to pursue someone, first, you need to know what type they like. Then you should work toward imitating that type. That is the only way to quickly close the distance."

As Zhu Yaoyao spoke, she deftly spun the bamboo leaf around her fingertips. Then she suddenly straightened up and fixed Su Miaoxi with bright eyes. "So—Student Su Miaoxi! What type does Senior Brother Shen like?"

Su Miaoxi jumped at the sudden question, shrinking back slightly as her gaze wandered. "Um... strong?"

Zhu Yaoyao raised a brow, clearly dissatisfied with that vague answer. She lightly waved the bamboo leaf in her hand, her words carrying a hint of coaxing. "What else?"

"Handsome?" Su Miaoxi blinked and added.

Zhu Yaoyao sighed and lightly tapped Su Miaoxi's forehead with the bamboo leaf. The gesture was gentle, yet carried the air of someone frustrated by iron that would not become steel. "Anything else?"

Su Miaoxi scrunched up her little face and racked her brains, her brows tightly furrowed. "Especially, especially outstanding?"

Zhu Yaoyao pressed a hand to her forehead, looking utterly helpless, her tone caught between laughter and tears. "...Student Su Miaoxi, do