162 Affection, looking for (first shift)_1

The light was dim, and the only shadows cast on the wall were those swaying from the phoenix trees in the neighboring yard.

Jiang Fulai slightly lowered his head, his voice still carrying its usual coolness at the end.

A gentle breeze rustled through the treetops, and occasionally, snippets of conversation would drift over from the courtyard not too far away.

He gently pulled Bai Lian toward him, embracing her lightly.

His gaze swept past the black tips of her hair, the wooden hairpin shimmering slightly in the lamplight, and her slender, fair neck—only this time, he rested his chin on Bai Lian's shoulder.

He gently rubbed it against her shoulder.

Down the alley, there was just a faint whiff of cool mint in the air, creating an atmosphere that was quiet yet somehow restless.

"Alright," he let go, stepped back, and watched her for a moment, his shallow, pretty phoenix eyes bending ever so slightly, "Good night."

**

In the courtyard.