Fortune Across the World

Chapter 123: Strolling the Fragrant Sea Together (Part 2)

Seeing Ding Qiyu carefully cherish the small clay figure, the warmth and emotion that had just settled in Fu Ruqing's heart surged again. She glanced down at the Ding Qiyu figure in her hand, gently stroking its cheek, before holding it close to her chest, treasuring it dearly.

After letting the little girl admire it for a while, Ding Qiyu carefully stored both figures in her tool bag. They wandered hand in hand, exploring the bustling streets—one a "guest from another world," the other experiencing the joy of exploring with a loved one, free from her usual aloof facade. Street vendors offered a variety of foods unfamiliar to Ding Qiyu, aromatic and diverse. Although Fu Ruqing typically ate simply and without much attachment to food, growing up in luxury meant she had tasted many delicacies, but these street foods were new to her.

Noticing the curiosity and yearning in her eyes, Ding Qiyu wondered if the little girl wanted to try these snacks. But what about her veil? Ding Qiyu couldn't bear for strangers to see the scars on Qing'er's face. Puzzled, she glanced around and spotted a stall selling masks. With renewed determination, she approached to select a mask that would cover Qing'er's scars. Fu Ruqing quickly understood her intention, warmth blooming in her heart. She stepped closer, instinctively taking Ding Qiyu's arm, quietly watching her choose a mask.

Since it was the Yinxiang Flower Festival, the masks featured floral designs. Ding Qiyu selected two beautiful masks, purchasing them immediately. She donned a gold-patterned mask herself and led Fu Ruqing to a secluded street corner. Standing close, she ensured no one was watching before swiftly replacing Fu Ruqing's veil with a silver-patterned mask.

The half-mask perfectly concealed the three scars on Fu Ruqing's face, revealing only her delicate lips. The silver mask adorned with colorful floral patterns accentuated her ethereal beauty, enhancing her unique charm. Ding Qiyu was quite satisfied, "Now we can try the local delicacies of Xiang City!"

Fu Ruqing touched the spot where her scars lay hidden, confirming they were completely covered. A sweet smile graced her lips, and she nodded, "Mm."

Touched by her smile, Ding Qiyu couldn't help but kiss the corner of her lips, "Haha, let's go!" Holding the little girl's hand, they returned to the bustling street. Many festival-goers wore masks, so their appearance wasn't unusual.

Ding Qiyu squeezed the small hand in hers, "Little girl, just tell me what you want to try, and we'll get it."

Fu Ruqing pursed her lips, glancing around, "But we can't eat it all."

Ding Qiyu patted her chest confidently, "Haha, isn't that what I'm here for? Eat as much or as little as you like, anything left is mine. Let me show you my prowess."

With her assurance, Fu Ruqing relaxed, shedding her facade to enjoy the novelty of street food. Initially, Ding Qiyu bought whatever caught the little girl's curiosity, letting her try it. Over time, under Ding Qiyu's indulgence, Fu Ruqing fully embraced her inner child's curiosity, tugging at Ding Qiyu's sleeve for anything that looked enticing.

Fu Ruqing, more interested in the novelty than the food, ate little. The leftovers naturally went to Ding Qiyu. Despite only buying small portions for the little girl, the vast array of Xiang City's snacks quickly filled Ding Qiyu's belly as she cleaned up the remnants, leaving her satisfyingly full.

Noticing Ding Qiyu rubbing her stomach, Fu Ruqing felt a pang of guilt for her indulgence, curbing her curiosity. "Are you uncomfortable?" she asked, her voice as clear and pleasant as ever, though Ding Qiyu, familiar with her, detected a hint of concern.