He recognizes the answer for what it was. His brother was sweet and could be very subtle, but Jingyi has gotten quite good at reading him like he has his mentor, Lan Wangji, over the last couple months. He knows whenever Sizhui can, he defaults to whatever the politest thing to say is. It's shocking how 'Lan' his brother is, considering his background.

Jingyi throws an arm around Sizhui's shoulders and gives him a side hug. "Don't worry! Everything will work out just fine!" He leans in and whispers, "A-Zhen and I have a plan! But till then, how about this food? Doesn't it look incredible! I could sneak you a little bit of the liquor if you'd like. I'm sure A-Zhen won't mind sharing."

~~~

Jiang Cheng bows his head appreciatively at his secret soulmate. "I'd be grateful. Although we don't have much time. She and I have planned to rendezvous for tea after the opening ceremony tomorrow." His lip curls just a little. "I figured I'd have other 'duties' to attend to tonight and tomorrow morning." He also didn't mind making her wait. This was truly an imposition, after all.

"By the way, I heard Jin Ling raise his voice right as you were coming in. Is there a problem I should follow up with?"