Li Mei was in high spirits as she and Yulan found a quiet spot near a small, gurgling stream just outside the market. The fresh air and the sound of the water provided a peaceful backdrop to what promised to be a delicious indulgence. Li Mei eagerly unwrapped the parchment, revealing the roasted meat that had been the source of her excitement. The golden-brown exterior was still warm and inviting, and the aroma was even more intoxicating up close.
Yulan watched with a mix of trepidation and curiosity as Li Mei tore off a piece of the meat. Li Mei's eyes lit up with anticipation as she took her first bite. The savory juices exploded in her mouth, the seasoning perfectly balanced with a hint of smokiness. She closed her eyes, savoring every morsel with delight. The flavor was exquisite, a far cry from the delicacies she was accustomed to at home. She could hardly contain her enthusiasm.
"This is amazing, Yulan!" she exclaimed, her voice muffled by a mouthful of meat. "You have to try some."
Yulan hesitated, then took a small bite, her eyes widening in surprise. "It is quite good," she admitted, albeit with a touch of reluctance. "But you should be careful. If anyone finds out—"
Li Mei waved off her concern with a carefree smile. "Let them find out! This is too good to worry about anything else."
As they enjoyed their stolen treat, the sound of chatter and laughter from the market grew louder. Li Mei's senses were suddenly drawn to a new source of commotion. A group of elegantly dressed ladies and scholars had gathered around a figure who stood at the center of the scene. Curiosity piqued, Li Mei glanced over her shoulder and saw the crowd parting for a young man who was attracting all eyes.
He was tall and exceptionally handsome, with a striking presence that commanded attention. His attire was elegant but understated, a sign of refined taste rather than ostentation. His face was chiseled, with high cheekbones and a strong jawline. His eyes were dark and intense, framed by long lashes that seemed to hold an endless depth of intelligence and charm. The way he carried himself, with a calm assurance and a slight, enigmatic smile, only added to his allure.
Li Mei's breath caught in her throat as she took in his appearance. The young man was none other than Wei Ming, the most talked-about scholar in the capital. Rumored to be the best graduating scholar of his time, he was adored by the ladies for his looks and intellect. His reputation had preceded him, and now, seeing him in person, Li Mei was utterly captivated.
"Yulan, look at him!" she whispered excitedly, her eyes wide with awe. "That's Wei Ming. I've heard so much about him. He's even more impressive in person!"
Yulan peered over and nodded in agreement, though her expression was tinged with concern. "Miss Li Mei, we should really move away. If he sees us here—"
Before Yulan could finish, Wei Ming's gaze swept across the area, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd. Li Mei's heart raced, and she instinctively ducked behind a nearby bush, pulling Yulan down with her. The last thing she wanted was to draw attention to herself, especially with her current disguise.
Li Mei peeked through the foliage, trying to remain as unobtrusive as possible. Wei Ming was now speaking with a group of ladies, his voice carrying a tone of effortless charm. The ladies giggled and fluttered their fans, clearly enthralled by his every word. Li Mei couldn't help but feel a pang of envy; she was captivated not only by his looks but by the ease with which he captivated those around him.
As Wei Ming continued to engage with the crowd, his gaze once again swept across the area. Li Mei's heart pounded in her chest. It felt as though his eyes were drawn to her hiding spot, though she hoped it was just her imagination. She held her breath, trying to stay as still as possible.
Suddenly, Wei Ming's eyes locked onto the bush where Li Mei was hidden. For a split second, their eyes met, and Li Mei felt a jolt of panic. Wei Ming's expression remained inscrutable, but she could have sworn she saw a flicker of curiosity in his gaze.
Before she could react, Wei Ming subtly adjusted his position, as if to get a better look. Li Mei's heart was racing, and she glanced nervously at Yulan, who was also trying to stay hidden. The anticipation was almost unbearable.