The greenhouse buzzed with warmth and life as the soft glow of paper lanterns flickered overhead. Their delicate light shimmered against the walls and fresh wooden beams. It cast a dreamy glow that mingled with the twilight filtering in from above.
Xu Feng stood at the entrance, momentarily still, taking in the familiar yet altered sight. Every time he entered the greenhouse in the last few hours, it stunned him. Yet, the greenhouse wasn't as vibrant as he remembered.
The Dragon Chrysanthemums—once lush and overflowing in the space—seemed thinner, their blooms less full. The unknown seeds he had planted months ago—maybe even a year earlier—had sprouted but looked weak, their leaves drooping as if weighed down by the absence of their caretaker.
The air felt cooler, lacking the dense humidity it once held. Despite the muted greenery, the space brimmed with warmth—not from plants, but from people. Family. Friends. And most importantly, his children.