Fourth Master Xiao held her and replied, "If you don't go, Min can take Tiancheng along instead!"
Xiqiu was noncommittal. She looked at Fourth Master Xiao with a smile and said, "If Fourth Master is genuinely inviting me, then I will reluctantly make this trip!" Fourth Master Xiao was amused by her tone and laughed, dispelling his earlier gloom, and pinched her nose as he replied, "I'm truly indebted to you, madam."
Xiqiu leaned in his arms, giggling. Fourth Master Xiao glanced sideways at her, remembering the various speculations and doubts she had shared with him, along with the small schemes she used privately. He found both her meticulous thinking and cleverness amusing and felt his heart soften, holding her affectionately as he said, "Next time such matters arise, you must tell me. Remember, I will always be behind you, supporting you!"
