Luo Binghe might take the slight recoil and disagreement as an insult, if he were not so attentive to Shen Qingqiu's reactions. This man has been seeking Luo Binghe's interest since he arrived. The way his eyes keep straying toward Luo Binghe as though he can't help himself. The way his hands twitch as though he yearns to touch. Not to mention the meticulously prepared invitation Shen Qingqiu sent him in the library. No, this is just more endearing shyness.

Except—maybe it's because he still can't dissociate this person from Shen Qingqiu, or maybe it's just that he already wants him so badly—but Luo Binghe's confidence falters. Hasn't he already learned that he can't trust his instincts in this cursed estate? Perhaps he speaks truth, and cares about Luo Binghe just enough to spare his feelings. Luo Binghe drops Shen Qingqiu's hand.

"Then—" He swallows. "If that was your intent—did you intend this to be the end of our association? Now that you've presented your gift, and said your piece? If there is debt between us—and I'm not convinced that there is—I release you."