Around his neck was the soft scarf that Dr. Ding had helped him tie earlier, the fluffy fabric framed his face, making it look even smaller and more delicate in the dim light.
As he stepped into the courtyard, the air was cooler than inside, but the refreshing breeze instantly cleared away the stuffy feeling from the banquet hall.
Even the warmth lingering on his cheeks from when Dr. Ding had leaned close to fix his scarf began to fade.
He exhaled softly, watching a small cloud of white mist form in the air.
"Are you cold?" Ding Yixin asked gently, his deep voice carrying a quiet concern.
Rong Xingyu shook his head. "No, I'm fine."
They walked slowly along the stone path that wound through the courtyard.
The night sky was clear and calm; a few faint stars glimmered above, and the moonlight was soft and pure.
The pale glow of the moon spread over the garden, coating the path, the trees, and the two of them in a thin layer of silver.
The moment felt peaceful, almost perfect.
