Yun Chuan froze for a moment.
Yu Xiuyuan tipped his chin toward the window. "I like that tree."
The answer caught Yun Chuan off guard, and he followed his gaze outside.
"Look at that trunk, the slanted one. It's thick and low. I think lying on it for a nap would feel really nice."
Yun Chuan was surprised by the sudden leap in his thinking.
But he couldn't help picturing Yu Xiuyuan reclining against it, dozing lightly.
Yu Xiuyuan continued, "The shade would be perfect for a picnic, too. Or tea."
He was right. The tree had a large crown that cast a broad swath of shade.
The sunlight outside was lovely, with scattered flecks filtering through the leaves. It really did look comfortable.
Yun Chuan had lived here for years, but this was the first time he'd felt that way.
As he imagined the scene Yu Xiuyuan described, even his restless heat faded without him noticing.
He gently stroked Yu Xiuyuan's back, warmth welling up in his chest.
Yu Xiuyuan had that kind of charm. He could effortlessly make the whole world seem inviting to him.
Yu Xiuyuan kept working his magic. "As for your place feeling too empty, that's easy. We just need to get a few things."
"Replace the sofa with something softer. I like the kind you can curl up in.
Get a long-pile rug, the kind that feels warm underfoot even in winter.
Switch the floor lamp to warm lighting, preferably with a few different color options.
Get some pretty dishes for the kitchen. I love going to the supermarket to look at all the beautiful plates.
Hang a few more handsome photos of you on the walls, but ones where you're fully dressed. Otherwise, it'd be awkward if someone came over.
Put two loungers