They cycled along a broad, spotless private road shaded by greenery, a world apart from the bustling everyday atmosphere of Old Town.
Luxurious detached villas stood hidden behind trees and meticulously tended gardens, looking exceptionally peaceful.
Wen Zhixia and Li Wanyin could not help looking around, murmuring in amazement. Lin Meng Qiu blinked too, her eyes full of curiosity.
As they cycled through the neighborhood, all three girls unconsciously lowered their voices.
Chen Shi'an, however, was perfectly at ease. He showed none of the reserve of someone paying a visit, looking instead like a cyclist who had wandered over on a whim.
His gaze swept over the villas and gardens, and he nodded inwardly in appreciation. From the architectural layouts and the layering of space to the smallest details of the landscaping, everything showed ingenuity and craftsmanship. With work like this, it was no wonder every inch of land here was worth a fortune.
They had not cycled far before a middle-aged man in an immaculate suit appeared at the junction ahead.
In stark contrast to his neat attire and composed bearing, the man looked hurried as he jogged toward them, no longer concerned with appearances.
Only when he spotted the four young people cycling at the end of the road-especially the young man in a plain-colored Dōfuku leading them-did his steps suddenly falter. A flicker of realization crossed his eyes, and he knew these were the guests he had come to welcome.
He kept moving, merely slowing his jog to a brisk, steady walk. A courteous yet respectful smile quickly spread across his face as he headed straight toward the four of them.
Chen Shi'an gently squeezed his brakes and stopped at the roadside. The three girls following on shared bicycles also stopped, curious.
Once the man drew close,