The Golden Petal Café hummed with afternoon activity, a stark contrast to the rigid atmosphere of the palace training grounds.
Zou guided Rui to a secluded corner table, his hand resting lightly on the small of her back.
"Your favorite spot," he murmured, pulling out her chair with a flourish.
Rui blinked, glancing around the familiar gilded interior with its hanging flower lanterns and ornate teacups.
Memories of her life before the trials washed over her.
"How did you know this was my favorite café?" she asked, trailing her fingers along the polished table edge.
Zou's eyes softened as he settled across from her.
"I didn't bring you here to show off my knowledge of your habits. I just realized you haven't been back since your trials began." He signaled a server.
"Sometimes returning to old comforts helps remind us who we are beneath all the... expectations."
Kee Kee hopped onto the table, immediately eyeing the passing trays of pastries.
