Brother Zhao Considers the Big Picture

Jiang Lu furrowed his brow, fixing his gaze upon Brother Zhao as he inquired, "That young lady from earlier happens to be my fellow classmate. Pray, may I inquire as to your pursuit of her, my good sir?"

Brother Zhao, upon hearing this revelation, couldn't help but burst into a hearty laugh. He responded, "Well, I'll be! I hadn't the faintest inkling she was connected to your esteemed academic circle!"

With a slightly humbler demeanor, Brother Zhao added, "Had I been aware of this fact, I would have certainly extended a more deferential approach."

"In truth," Brother Zhao continued, his eyes glancing in Xia Ye's direction, "I was merely partaking in a jesting exchange with my fellow classmate. I implore her not to take it to heart."

Witnessing Xia Ye's distress as Brother Zhao's gaze fell upon her, she found herself choking back her sobs, her fear evident in her eyes.