Ning Wanwan turned and saw Si Zhan, slightly out of breath with disheveled hair from pushing through the crowd.
He held her hand tightly, glaring at Sun Maozhi with hostile eyes.
Sun Maozhi, half regretful and half apologetic, cupped his hands in respect and left.
Ning Wanwan looked at Si Zhan’s hand holding hers. Si Zhan quickly let go, awkwardly explaining, “Just now… it was… a moment of urgency…”
Ning Wanwan smiled softly and reached out to hold Si Zhan’s hand, lowering her eyes shyly. “There are many people on the street, and I’m afraid of getting lost. Imperial Uncle, please hold my hand.”
Si Zhan was stunned, then surprised and delighted, replying, “…Okay.”
He interlocked their fingers, and they walked forward, quiet and peaceful.
As they walked, Ning Wanwan intertwined her fingers with Si Zhan’s.
Fu Yi, watching from behind, covered her mouth and laughed softly.
Yuan Bi looked ahead at the two, hearing Fu Yi’s laughter, and couldn’t help but find her adorable.
They followed the crowd to the foot of Jade Mountain, where the water in the wooden cabins had been used up, and the waterfall had stopped.
Suddenly, numerous “fairy women” in colorful clothes emerged from the mountain, carrying flower baskets and scattering flowers mixed with copper coins.
The people below immediately gathered their clothes and skirts, rushing to catch the coins.
Fearing a collision, Si Zhan pulled Ning Wanwan’s hand, retreating to a safer position while watching everyone eagerly collect the money.
After the blessing distribution, it was time for the Jade Mountain lantern release.
Colorful lanterns were tied with silk threads between the mountain peaks. At a signal, the lanterns broke free and rose into the sky.
In an instant, countless lanterns filled the sky, creating a spectacular sight.
The crowd jumped and pointed, calling out until the lanterns drifted far away.
After the lantern release, people began to disperse.
Not wanting to return early and reluctant to let go of Ning Wanwan’s hand, Si Zhan carefully suggested, “It’s still early. Shall we go to the South Fragrant Tower to appreciate the moon?”
“Mm,” Ning Wanwan nodded shyly.
Si Zhan felt a surge of excitement, realizing Wanwan was shy because of him.
