Huazhuo left Taizu's courtyard, and by the time he returned to Huazhuo Pavilion, the sky had completely darkened.
Lights were on in the main room of the pavilion. Xia Yuan sat at the table with her cheeks propped in her hands, waiting. Several dishes and utensils were laid out on the table, covered with dishes, clearly to keep the food from getting cold.
Hearing footsteps outside, Xia Yuan immediately stood up and called out, "Huazhuo?"
"Mhm," Huazhuo responded, setting down his umbrella and stepping into the room.
Xia Yuan walked up to him.
Huazhuo gestured for her to stop. Standing a few steps away, he brushed the chill from his body and smiled at her, "I am cold." After saying this, he glanced at the table and asked, "Why didn't you eat first?"