Lianfeng noted the scholars' contrasting demeanors. The one in green exuded a gentle and approachable air, while the one in grey carried a restrained, almost guarded presence. At first glance, Shi Meng's joy seemed carefree, yet there was a subtle hint of restraint that set him apart—unlike the one in yellow, whose laughter was uninhibited and loud.

As Lianfeng observed the group, she had doubts raveling in her mind. Is he or is he not my cousin?

The scholar in yellow flattered Shi Meng, "Your fate must have been foretold by stars. You are even friends with Prince Yan. No wonder master liked you so much," he laughed.

The rest of the group quickly joined in, their voices blending into a chorus of praise. What had started as casual banter turned into a flurry of adulation for Shi Meng. Although he laughed along with them, Lianfeng caught a flicker of annoyance in his expression.

The meal continued without further incident, and Lianfeng and Ren quietly finished their own. When the scholars began to rise and prepare to leave, Lianfeng took that as their cue as well. She exchanged a glance with Ren, and they exited the Jade Pavilion.

Outside, the streets bustled with life. Vendors called out their wares, the scent of grilled skewers and fresh pastries mingling in the crisp evening air. Children darted between the stalls, their laughter rising above the chatter of adults.

Is it really you, brother Meng?

Lianfeng instructed Ren on their way to the palace, "Set up a casual encounter with Shi Meng." Ren nodded in response.

Ren wasted no time, blending into the city’s pulse to gather information. By next noon, everything was set—a seemingly coincidental meeting on the Peony Lane, a bustling street known for its shops and eateries.

The next day, as the sun hung high, Lianfeng found herself on Peony Lane. The street was alive with the chatter of merchants and the enticing aroma of street food. She stood near a vendor, her gaze scanning the crowd, waiting for the moment Ren had orchestrated.

The crowd parted slightly and there he was, walking with a charming smile. He wore a grey colored robe with a black collar and cuffs. Lianfeng composed herself as she moved forward to execute her plan. She bumped into him while facing backward spoiling his clothes with a bowl of soup.

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The bowl crashed to the ground with a thud. Shi Meng was startled and took a few steps back and Lianfeng's face showed guilt as soon as she realized. She quickly removed a handkerchief from her sleeves and offered it to him.

"I am so sorry! I didn't mean to. Let me buy you a new robe as an apology." Lianfeng exclaimed in distress, her cheeks turned a rosy hue.

"It's fine, you don't need to buy me a robe." Shi Meng replied, taking the handkerchief from her hands.

"No, that had be taking advantage of your generosity. Please, let me make up for it." Lianfeng pleaded, clasping her hands together.

Shi Meng continued to decline, "That's kind of you, but really, there's no need." He smiled faintly, his tone polite but firm.

Lianfeng held his arm and pressed, "Your clothes are all soiled. You can't possibly keep wearing them. It's just right that I buy you a new robe." She said softly, though her tone left little room for argument. Her grip on his arm, though gentle, was unyielding. Agree already, I have been persisting for long enough.

Shi Meng's eyes jolted open, startled by the sudden touch. "Then, I am sorry for the trouble." He did a slight bow.

Lianfeng slightly bowed and said, "That's too kind of you." Finally.

They stepped into Rosary's cloth shop. The most influential cloth shop on Peony Lane. It was a two-storey building serving merchants, scholars, and officials. To the left of the entrance, the cashier busily counted notes, while a board on the right announced the special discounts. The shop was filled with the hustle-bustle of people buying clothes for the mid-autumn festival. The shop was decorated with chrysanthemums, osmanthus, and orchids. At the entrance, two lanterns swayed gently, casting warm shadows over the doorway. An attendant quickly came over wearing a dull brown-colored robe. "What shall I do for you, madam and sir?"

Lianfeng humbly stated, "Show this gentleman a fine pair of clothing."

"This way, madam and sir," gestured the attendant.

They followed the attendant who showed them fine pairs of clothing. As Shi Meng ran his fingers along the fabric, Lianfeng studied him. The movement was achingly familiar, yet there was something distant about him.

He is so similar yet so different. I am more confused now.

Shi Meng chose a purple colored robe with a white collar. Lianfeng paid the money and they walked out of the store. Suddenly, Lianfeng's stomach gave a growl. I should have eaten. She thought as her face flushed red due to embarrassment.

Shi Meng smiled and gestured to a nearby eatery. "How about I buy you lunch to make up for the trouble? "

Lianfeng readily agreed, not wanting to lose the opportunity. Deities are on my side today. She gave him a bright smile.

As they walked towards the eatery. Lianfeng's mind raced contemplating a plan to confirm Shi Meng's identity. What can I do?