Fortune Across the World

Chapter 67: Spring Cruise on the Painted Boat, Danger Looms

From a distance, Zhang Zhiyao watched the group, the gentle smile on Lu Weixi's face glaringly bright to him. But the thought of that bothersome companion soon disappearing improved his mood significantly. He exchanged a knowing glance with Zhang Cheng and turned his attention away from them.

The teacher leading the spring outing, along with several Qingyi attendants, did a headcount and guided everyone onto the boat. Once aboard, the students dispersed across the first-floor deck. The deck's railings featured fixed wooden platforms and tables for resting and enjoying the view of Huan Lake.

The painted boat glided out of the small dock. Unfortunately, the academy hadn't chosen an ideal day; it was bleak and chilly. Yet, the beauty of Cang Mountain and Huan Lake was captivating in both sun and shadow. On such a somber day, the scenery took on a serene and elegant simplicity, free from the usual brightness and warmth.

Many scholars and young ladies, inspired by the scenery, recited poetry to praise the views. Lu Weiming mustered the courage to join Qu Ruocheng and speak with her.

Ding Qiyu paid little attention to what others were saying or doing, her focus solely on the lovely figure beside her and the surrounding landscape. The beautiful young woman stood by the railing, her delicate hand resting on it, the lake breeze gently caressing her cheek, lifting the strands of hair by her temples, softening her perfect profile. Her gaze was distant, her lips faintly curved, and her gentle presence seeped into Ding Qiyu's heart.

Stepping forward, Ding Qiyu stood beside her, looking in the same direction, and couldn't help but recite, "On a fine day, seeking beauty by the Huan waters, endless scenery awaits anew."

Lu Weixi, in high spirits, turned with a bright smile, asking, "Does Qiyu find this view beautiful too?"

Ding Qiyu met her gaze, maintaining a calm demeanor, "Yes, the view is beautiful, but... I think someone is even more beautiful than the scenery~"

Lu Weixi's face flushed instantly, turning away, ignoring Ding Qiyu. She felt both shy and annoyed at Ding Qiyu's public teasing. Qing'er, nearby, stifled her laughter, finding her Miss's embarrassment at Ding Qiyu's teasing amusing.

The boat followed a predetermined route, and some, after enjoying the scenery, went inside to the first-floor cabin. The academy had invited a troupe to perform, and Qingyi attendants served tea and snacks. Groups chatted and listened to the performance, creating a lively and relaxed atmosphere.

Lu Weiming accompanied Qu Ruocheng inside. Lu Weixi, however, seemed content to stay outside, preferring the open deck and the breeze to the noisy music indoors.

Naturally, Ding Qiyu stayed with Weixi, gently coaxing her with soft words, eventually steering the conversation away from the earlier embarrassment. As they talked, Ding Qiyu remembered the solitary figure she often saw and instinctively glanced around, spotting Yun Yi not far away. To her surprise, Yun Yi was chatting with another young lady whose name she couldn't recall.

Their eyes met briefly, and Yun Yi, who had been smiling, suddenly grew tense, her heart racing without knowing why. She quickly averted her gaze from Ding Qiyu.

Smiling, Ding Qiyu didn't mind Yun Yi's reaction. It seemed she had made a new friend, which made Ding Qiyu happy, as she no longer needed to worry about Yun Yi feeling lonely.

Luckily, Lu Weixi didn't notice Ding Qiyu's discreet actions; otherwise, the recently appeased young lady might have felt neglected again.