Chapter 266: Chapter 266
After the exam, it was still early.
Liu Runxi suggested taking Shen You’an out for a meal, to the acclaimed Hunan restaurant he had mentioned before.
Shen You’an agreed readily.
It was a private dining venue, secluded, elegantly decorated, and perfect for conversations.
Since the restaurant operated on a reservation system, it was still very quiet despite being close to noon.
The manager noticed the young man and woman entering and couldn’t help but remark, "What a strikingly handsome pair—they complement each other so well."
Truly a feast for the eyes.
His gaze fell on the young man, and there was a faint sense of familiarity.
Where had he seen this young man before?
As someone well-versed in greeting guests, the manager had developed a sharp eye. Suddenly, he clapped his thigh in realization and immediately greeted them with enthusiasm.
"Ah, Mr. Liu, what an honor to have you here! My apologies for not welcoming you earlier."
About half a year ago, Mr. Liu had accompanied his father for a meal here, leaving a deep impression on the manager.
Liu Runxi raised an eyebrow and said nonchalantly, "I made a reservation the other day—the Song Chrysanthemum room."
The manager smiled warmly, "Mr. Liu and this young lady, please follow me upstairs."
While ascending, the manager couldn’t help but discreetly glance at the young woman beside Liu Runxi.
Given Mr. Liu’s exceptional status, anyone accompanying him must also be of notable background.
Judging by her refined demeanor, she certainly seemed like the daughter of a high-ranking official or wealthy businessman.
Sighing inwardly, the manager led them to the Song Chrysanthemum room.
The private room wasn’t large but was fully equipped. Outside the window lay a riverside view—a truly spectacular scene.
After pouring tea and taking their order, the manager tactfully retreated.
Liu Runxi blew lightly on the clear tea, and the serene surface rippled outward in concentric circles.
"The test questions today were quite challenging."
"Hmm." Shen You’an responded faintly.
"But for you, it shouldn’t have been an issue."
Shen You’an replied, "Same goes for you."
The two exchanged glances and chuckled simultaneously.
Over the years, they could almost be described as rivals—perhaps no one in the world understood each other better than they did.
Each knew the other’s strengths and weaknesses, down to the last detail.
In Jingzhou’s Pear Garden.
The autumn sunlight was perfect, and the operatic performance drifted rhythmically, narrating tales of joy and sorrow.
In the master seat below the stage, an energetic elderly woman dressed in a crimson buttoned jacket sat with a woolen blanket draped over her knees, entirely captivated by the show onstage.
Around her, at other tea tables, were several elegantly adorned and poised noblewomen.
Amongst them, one slightly distanced noblewoman propped her head in mild boredom, her eyes betraying an understated sharpness as she quietly surveyed her surroundings.
The stage was singing of sisterly affection—it was ironic, really.
The old lady maintained an impressive presence, her hands adorned with golden and jade rings gracefully gesturing along with the drama. Her cloud-like hand motions and orchid fingers possessed a charm even finer than the renowned performers on stage.
Tsk-tsk, no wonder she was once the foremost actress.
Helian Yu took a sip of tea, noticing a noblewoman rising and walking out with the butler who had been waiting attentively nearby—likely to prepare for the midday banquet.
Helian Yu narrowed her eyes slightly and stood up unhurriedly. A maid positioned close by immediately stepped forward, respectfully addressing her, "Madam, is there anything you require?"
Helian Yu smiled gently, "I’ve had too much tea. I need to change clothes."
The so-called "changing clothes" was simply a polite euphemism for relieving oneself.
"Madam, please follow me." Read full story at novel✦fire.net
Helian Yu followed the maid out of the theater. Pear Garden occupied just a corner of the estate. Apart from it, there were the Chrysanthemum Garden, Lan Garden, and Plum Garden, collectively known as Four Seasons Manor.
Located on the prized slopes of Yan Mountain in the suburbs of Jingzhou, the estate was rumored to have been a former royal retreat in the last dynasty. Nowadays, it was merely one of the Yu family’s unremarkable private gardens.
The Pear Garden alone was expansive enough to lose one’s way. Every detail was meticulously designed—with careful thought. It was said the elderly lady was deeply devoted to feng shui, ensuring that both the Yu family properties and her favored retreats adhered strictly to its principles.
For instance, the restroom was located precisely at the easternmost portion of Pear Garden. Bathrooms belong to the Water element, while the east is associated with Wood. According to the principles of the Five Elements—where Water nourishes Wood—this arrangement benefited the feng shui.
The restroom itself resembled an elegant chamber, scented with sandalwood and adorned with luxurious green plants, even featuring an exceedingly rare blue cone stone wash basin.
Helian Yu pulled out a tissue and leisurely wiped her hands.
When she emerged, the maid was waiting attentively just outside.
Helian Yu smiled and said, "You can get back to your work. I’ll take a stroll around the garden."
The maid was unwilling to leave. "Madam, I’ll trail behind at a distance so as not to disturb your enjoyment."