The afternoon sun had begun to soften when Lian An (the Empress) stepped out of the private room at Whisper Bowl.
Behind her, the quiet conversation between Lian Rou and Chen Ruyi continued—gentle, unhurried, like two lives slowly weaving together.
Outside, Lian Hua immediately rushed toward her.
"So?? What are they talking about?"
Lian An gave her a calm look.
"None of your business."
Lian Hua pouted.
"I'm the younger sister, I deserve to know."
"You deserve to behave," Lian An replied lightly.
Lian Hua huffed.
"…Fine."
But her eyes still kept drifting toward the closed door.
Lian An smiled faintly, then turned her gaze toward the bustling restaurant below.
Her expression shifted slightly.
Now—
It was time to talk business.
—
They moved downstairs.
The moment the staff saw her, they straightened immediately.
"Madam."
"Greetings."
Respect.
Discipline.
Warmth.
Everything she had built with effort.
