As the cheerful lanterns were lit, and the round moon slowly show off its glory, the Western Crimson Gardens began to glow.
But its doorways remained shuttered.
The twin enormous lanterns that hung by the gateway to the establishment, used to signify that they're open for business, was left dark.
Unlit.
***
Jing Yong Qi, dragging his esteemed cousin to and fro, was in high spirits.
It's not often that this honorable man visited the family, he must make the most out of this opportunity!
With Cousin Xuan Hua along, his father won't be able to complain about his playing around and any other unforeseen shenanigans too much! With unrestrained glee, he dived into merrymaking the day away.
However, the culmination event, the crown jewel of his plans, was unexpectedly unavailable. The Western Crimson Gardens was not open for business!
As he stood gaping at the unlighted paper construction, his cousin curiously asked if this 'staring at empty lanterns' was part of the local attraction. Considering they weren't the only ones standing there foolishly in the dark.
Spluttering out in confusion, Gentleman Jing looked around for help, desperate to not look like a fool in front of his refined royal cousin.
The spirit of entrepreneurship came to his aid. A canny fellow —armed with insider information from his relative, a security guard down at the Western Crimson Gardens— had went around that evening borrowing all the ladders he could put his hands on. Whether the wooden structure could be safely used, he cared not. For a fee, he would then rent these rickety contraption to anyone willing to risk their limbs and life.
Along a particular segment of the wall encircling the establishment, the curious and the shameless laid their ladders and craned their necks to catch a glimpse of the goings on within.
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Gentleman Rich Person Sir, I'm NOT Yours!
Historical FictionSometimes, truth is stranger than fiction and twice as perilous. Sometimes, the last thing you wished for, happened first. Sometimes, Celestial Matchmaker Yue loves meddling. Sometimes, this all happens at once. ...sigh... all he ever wanted was...