Qingyu gave a quick nod, and the two of them moved across the courtyard. Along the way, Shen Yuan picked up the leftover tea things, noticing a second pot still half-full. "You up for some tea first?" he offered.
Qingyu smiled lightly, eyes flicking between him and the half-full pot. "Sure. A little tea after such a long time will be nice."
They sat down at the small table beneath the softly glowing branches of the cherry tree.
Shen Yuan re-lit the kettle to keep the tea warm, then poured out two cups. The mild, aromatic steam mingled with the courtyard's fresh air.
For a moment, neither spoke, simply enjoying a moment of peace.
Eventually, Qingyu placed her cup down, looking quietly at Shen Yuan for a second before speaking. "It's been over a month since we last saw each other, huh."
Shen Yuan sipped his tea and gently said, "Time is fleeting; it won't wait for anyone. And I have been busy during this month as well."
