"Elder He, surely you jest. Here, come and take a seat," Fang Yuan said warmly, rising with a practiced smile.
Yet the warmth only made Elder He Song's skin prickle.
To his eyes, this youth in front of him was a vessel brimming with trouble and even if it wasn't trouble, then Fang Yuan himself was a ticking bomb, waiting to go off.
Still, He Song reminded himself of his duty.
He gave a stiff snort, dragged out a chair with unnecessary noise, and sat heavily.
Fang Yuan returned to his seat and gestured. "Felicia, bring us the tea my aunt favors. Thank you."
Felicia dipped into a bow.
Her polite smile didn't hide her relief, she was more than happy to excuse herself and slip away, leaving the two alone.
Now the east courtyard was quiet, just Fang Yuan and Elder He Song beneath the pale light.
The elder's sharp gaze wandered over the space before finally clicking his tongue.
"So this is the east courtyard?"
"Yes, indeed it is."
