A not-so-chance encounter

"Mommy, why are those two big brothers hugging?"

At the sound of the child's innocent voice, Shen Shixu looked down and realized he was still leaning against Xiao Jinyi's chest. Xiao Jinyi hadn't pushed him away, either. They had stayed like that for quite some time.

Shen Shixu hastily pulled away from Xiao Jinyi's arms. Too embarrassed even to look up at him, he felt he could die of shame.

He had actually been so taken with Xiao Jinyi's physique that he hadn't wanted to leave his embrace. If Xiao Jinyi found out, how would they ever face each other again?

What if Xiao Jinyi thought he was a pervert?

The mere thought of Xiao Jinyi seeing him that way made Shen Shixu feel as though the sky had fallen.

"Your Highness, let me explain. I really didn't mean to stay in your arms. Something else suddenly came to mind, and I got so lost in thought that I didn't notice. If you feel I've offended you, I'll apologize right now."

Watching Shen Shixu scramble to explain himself, Xiao Jinyi reached out and ruffled his hair reassuringly. "Don't panic. I haven't misunderstood, and I'm not angry. Let's keep flying the kite!"

Relieved that Xiao Jinyi believed him, Shen Shixu let out a breath. Even so, he kept a careful watch on his movements afterward, trying to avoid any physical contact with Xiao Jinyi.

Little did he know how desperately Xiao Jinyi wanted that physical contact!

While the two of them got along pleasantly, if a little cautiously, Xiao Lie and Bai Lixi successfully had their "chance encounter" with Xiao Jiayi.

"Jiayi?" Xiao Lie called out in feigned surprise. "It really is you! I spotted someone from a distance whose back looked like yours, and now that I've come closer, it