Old Master Lian's brow twitched twice, and he pretended not to hear Lian Yeye's words, only continuing to wear a smile while facing Scholar Wang and the others.
Upon reaching the middle of the courtyard, Lian Shouren and Lian Shouyi stepped out to greet them from the house.
"...We were all along in the backyard, unaware of the esteemed guests' arrival," Lian Shouren stated, hinting he was oblivious to the recent commotion.
"Goodness, why are there so many people outside?" Lian Shouyi exclaimed noisily as well.
When the onlookers outside overheard their words, someone burst out laughing. Because of Scholar Wang's presence, those watching didn't dare to enter the yard, but neither did they leave.
"Lian Laoer, weren't you just outside with your father? It's as if you're only noticing us now," someone called out loudly, peeling away Lian Shouyi's pretense. They dared not mock Lian Shouren, who was about to assume office, but they had no qualms about teasing Lian Shouyi.
