Collection Bonus: Lantern Festival

[Qin Fuhua's POV]

Qin Fuhua's gaze lingered on Suyin's crestfallen visage, a crease of concern marring his brow as he took in the disappointment etched upon her features.

It was as they passed by a family, the young boy clutching a lantern in his small hands, that a notion flickered in Qin Fuhua's mind — perhaps Suyin harbored a desire for one of those delicate illuminations.

With a deftness born of determination, Qin Fuhua veered towards a secluded corner where an elderly man sat upon a weathered wooden chair, his assortment of lanterns casting intricate patterns of light and shadow upon the ground.

Yet, the passersby showed little interest, their disdain evident in muttered complaints about the lanterns' exotic designs.

"Too exotic!" one voice grumbled, eyes scanning the array with disdain. "I just want a regular one. These are too odd!"

The elderly man's countenance sagged with dejection, his existence overlooked amidst the bustling crowd and his cart brimming with unsold lanterns.

Meanwhile, Suyin's attention remained ensnared by the offerings of other vendors, oblivious to Qin Fuhua's brief departure.

Clearing his throat, Qin Fuhua tossed a bulging sack of coins onto the elderly man's lap.

"Keep it all. I merely seek to bring joy to that woman," he indicated towards Suyin, whose gaze wandered among the lantern-laden stalls. A flicker of gratitude illuminated the elderly man's features as he nodded in understanding.

"Thank you, young man," he murmured, his voice tinged with sincerity as he clasped his hands in appreciation.

With a swiftness that escaped Suyin's notice, Qin Fuhua hastened back to her side, the two resuming their journey together.

As they walked near the old man's shop, a voice called out to them from the crowd, a lit of admiration coloring the words.

"Young lady and young man! You make a splendid pair!"