Lin Wanrong stepped out of the mansion, barely catching his breath when a maid hurriedly approached, "Third Brother, quickly go to the reception hall. It's said that an esteemed guest is here to visit you."
Could it be Qin Xian'er coming? Lin Wanrong was startled. He had become more familiar with this young lady, understanding her temperament. Though she appeared gentle and charming, she was quite cunning. One had to be careful not to fall into her schemes.
Entering the hall, he saw a young gentleman conversing with the family's young master. The young man noticed Lin Wanrong and quickly greeted, "Brother Lin, it's been a while. I am Luo Yuan, here to pay a visit."
"Ah, it's Brother Luo," Lin Wanrong said with surprise, "I thought it was—"
"You thought it was Miss Qin Xian'er coming, didn't you?" Luo Yuan chuckled.
Lin Wanrong sighed, "Don't mention that matter. It's giving me a headache."
Luo Yuan wondered, "It's strange. It's something every man in the world envies. Why is Brother Lin not too pleased?"
Lin Wanrong grimaced, "Visible, but unattainable. Isn't that a bitter situation?" Luo Yuan was taken aback for a moment but soon burst into laughter with Lin Wanrong.
As the son of a governor, Luo Yuan's visit was significant. The two young ladies of the Xiao family couldn't meet him directly, so Mrs. Xiao received him.
Having bid farewell to Mrs. Xiao a while ago, Lin Wanrong observed her now. Despite her still radiant appearance, there was a hint of weariness on her face. He thought, "The joint venture is really putting her in a difficult position."
After some pleasantries between Mrs. Xiao and Luo Yuan, she turned to Lin Wanrong, "Third Lin, since Master Luo values you so much, entertain him and have a good conversation."
Luo Yuan quickly added, "I dare not, Brother Lin has great talent. I've come to learn from Brother Lin."
Seeing the friendly interaction between the son of a governor and Lin Wanrong, Mrs. Xiao found it quite strange. Lin San had some talent, and Luo Yuan's admiration confirmed it further.
Mrs. Xiao smiled at Lin Wanrong and signaled him to host Luo Yuan properly. Then she excused herself.
Luo Yuan was restless, "Brother Lin, why not take a stroll outside? To be honest, staying here feels a bit awkward."
Lin Wanrong laughed heartily, appreciating Luo's straightforwardness. He also had the same idea; the tavern should be almost ready for opening, and it had been a while since he visited Qiushui.
Lin Wanrong said, "Luo Brother, your suggestion is timely. I've been occupied lately. Let's go."
Luo Yuan, curious, asked, "Why has it been difficult for you to go out?"
Noticing Luo's gaze at his attire, Lin Wanrong smiled, "Luo Brother, life is short, like a passing white steed. Pursuing everything would make it too exhausting."
Luo Yuan respectfully saluted, "Brother Lin, your words are profound. I am enlightened."
As they walked and chatted, Luo Yuan suddenly asked, "Brother Lin, has Cheng Ruinian caused you trouble?"
"Trouble? What trouble?" Lin Wanrong inquired.
Luo Yuan explained, "Cheng Ruinian has inappropriate intentions towards Miss Xian'er. Now that you're close to Miss Qin, won't he cause you trouble?"
Lin Wanrong considered it. As an insignificant servant, dealing with someone like Cheng Ruinian would indeed be troublesome. He remembered Dong Qingshan's club; pulling in Luo Yuan would strengthen his position.
After a while of chatting about various interesting stories, Lin Wanrong and Luo Yuan arrived at the tavern Lin Wanrong had purchased. It had undergone significant renovations, and Luo Yuan, astonished, asked, "Did this tavern change owners? Why didn't I know?"
Lin Wanrong, smiling, replied, "Luo Brother, just follow me."
Entering the building, they found a well-organized dining area, fragrant and neatly arranged. The place exuded an elegant atmosphere. Luo Yuan marveled, "Brother Lin, this tavern is extraordinary. Your vision is remarkable. I never thought a tavern could be decorated like this. Business here will surely flourish."
Lin Wanrong laughed, "Brother, I appreciate your kind words."
Luo Yuan jokingly said, "Since Brother Lin is so generous, I won't be polite. I love free meals."
The two laughed together and proceeded to explore the upper floors. Lin Wanrong explained his plans to bring in famous entertainers, particularly talented courtesans, to perform. Luo Yuan was amazed at the innovative idea.
Finally, they reached the top floor, adorned with luxurious rooms named in a poetic manner. Luo Yuan was astonished at Lin Wanrong's creativity.
Lin Wanrong asked, "Brother Luo, how about inviting some renowned courtesans to sing here? What do you think?"
Luo Yuan, wide-eyed, found it hard to believe. Such a unique idea was rare. He realized this innovation would make the tavern extremely popular.
Luo Yuan sighed, "Brother, I never thought of such creativity. With this idea alone, your place will surely become famous."
Lin Wanrong chuckled, recalling his experiences in various bars. Although he lacked resident bands, inviting talented courtesans would add a special touch to the tavern, raising its status. This was precisely why he had recruited Xiao Lian and Xiao Er.
On the fifth floor, Luo Yuan was further amazed by the open layout, where no barriers separated the rooms. The gentle breeze made it feel like walking in the sky.
Lin Wanrong nodded in satisfaction. The tavern had been decorated exactly as he had envisioned. He thought, "Qiaoxin really understood my intentions well."
Reaching the sixth floor, they found two grand rooms named "Plenty and Talent." Facing Xuanwu Lake, the rooms were elegantly decorated, resembling a quiet study. Brush, ink, paper, and inkstone were placed neatly, and a musical instrument stand enhanced the room's artistic atmosphere.
As they ascended to the seventh floor, Lin Wanrong proudly revealed the unobstructed view and the feeling of walking on air. Luo Yuan couldn't help but marvel at the imaginative designs.
"Dong!" The two gold characters "Riches and Talents" on the eighth floor caught Luo Yuan's attention. The two rooms were spacious, with a breathtaking view of Xuanwu Lake. Lin Wanrong had designed them to resemble tranquil study rooms, complete with the four treasures of the study. Near the window, a stand held a musical instrument, adding to the elegant ambiance.
As they reached the ninth floor, the atmosphere became ethereal. The rooms were open, with carved decorations but no barriers, allowing guests to experience the sensation of walking in the sky. Luo Yuan was astonished at Lin Wanrong's creativity, finding it difficult to comprehend.
"Dong Qiaoxin!" Lin Wanrong called out.
Dong Qiaoxin, engrossed in a conversation with a woman, turned her head, initially surprised. As soon as she saw Lin Wanrong, her face lit up with joy. Ignoring the person she was talking to, she ran towards him.
Dong
Qiaoxin halted in front of Lin Wanrong, her eyes fixed on him. She seemed to want to say something but hesitated. Tears welled up in her eyes, and after a moment, she softly uttered, "Big Brother..."