Fortune Across the World

Chapter 55: Whispering in the Woods, Sharing Secrets (Part 2)

"Uh..." Ding Qiyu was momentarily caught off guard, not realizing her earlier words had revealed an age inconsistency. She tried to cover it up, "Weixi, don't listen to Brother Weiming's nonsense. I'm actually fourteen, really." She hoped this would gloss over the discrepancy.

"So you're fourteen, which means your sister is only seven. That's not very old either," Weixi pointed out, not letting her off the hook easily.

Ding Qiyu had no choice but to press on, "Seven is quite grown up! I've watched her grow from a tiny baby to seven. Compared to when she was just born, seven is definitely big, haha..." She dared not mention anything about soul transmigration, worried it might frighten Weixi.

Lu Weixi didn't doubt her explanation, as who could guess Ding Qiyu's extraordinary experiences? The warmth in her words and expressions about her sister also warmed Weixi's heart, "With you spoiling her like that, it's no wonder she relies on you. Having such a brother is truly a blessing."

Ding Qiyu silently crossed out "brother" in her mind, smiling as she asked, "But doesn't Weixi have two brothers? I'm sure you've been spoiled since childhood too."

Weixi playfully wrinkled her nose, "Hmph, my two brothers aren't as doting as you are to your sister~" Despite her words, the affection in her tone made her brothers' love for her evident.

Delighted by her playful side, Ding Qiyu teased, "Haha, I'll go back and tell Brother Weiming!"

Lu Weixi wasn't fazed by her threat and sat up, smiling, "Sure, go ahead and tell my second brother. He should learn from you to treat his sister better!"

Raising her eyebrows, Ding Qiyu nodded, "Alright~ I'll be sure to pass on your message!" Seeing that Weixi's mood had improved, Ding Qiyu, though reluctant to let go of the happiness she felt holding her, refrained from holding her again, lest she be seen as too forward. Instead, she suggested, "If Weixi doesn't mind, could you play a few more pieces for me?"

Though reluctant to leave the warmth of Ding Qiyu's embrace, Weixi had no reason to stay there longer. She obliged and seated herself at the qin once more.

The two enjoyed a harmonious time with the qin, and before they knew it, the day had passed. Concerned about tiring her, Ding Qiyu said, "Weixi, it's getting late. Let me walk you back."

Seeing Weixi agree, Ding Qiyu carefully packed the qin and slung the case over her shoulder, following her as they left the clearing. Watching Weixi's delicate figure filled Ding Qiyu with a deepening infatuation; she was becoming more entranced by her every day...

"Weixi..." Unable to resist the urge, Ding Qiyu called out after a moment of hesitation, reaching out to grasp Lu Weixi's hand.

Weixi paused and turned, glancing at her hand held by Ding Qiyu, puzzled, "Qiyu?"

To her surprise, Ding Qiyu stepped closer and, without warning, leaned in to plant a gentle kiss on her cheek, barely brushing against it before pulling away. Without giving her time to react, she took Weixi's hand and continued walking.

Weixi was in a state of shock, mechanically following Ding Qiyu's lead. She hadn't expected such a bold move, her heart pounding as if it were about to burst, the spot on her cheek where Ding Qiyu had kissed her felt like it was on fire, spreading warmth throughout her body.

Ding Qiyu, externally calm, was inwardly anxious, wondering if she had been too forward and whether she had startled Weixi. Yet she couldn't help but savor the lingering softness and sweetness on her lips.

They walked in silence until they reached the courtyard gate. After handing the qin case to Qing'er and bidding farewell to Weixi, who responded absently, Ding Qiyu made her way back.