Chapter 57: Selecting Tea Leaves

Upon entering, a waiter approached and bowed. "Please, come in. Are you here to drink tea, purchase some, or are you meeting a friend?" His manner was refined and his tone gentle, making him seem more like a scholarly attendant than a waiter.

Lin Jinyan asked, "To drink and buy tea. Is Manager An in?"

The waiter did not change his tone despite Lin Jinyan's youthful appearance, responding gently, "The manager is in, though I am unsure if he is currently busy. As there are many people in the main hall, it might be inconvenient for two ladies. Allow me to escort you upstairs to take a seat first. This way."

Lin Jinyan followed the waiter through the main hall and up to the second floor. The hall was elegantly and transcendently decorated; there were not many customers, and it lacked the clamor found in other teahouses.

A few people nearby cast curious glances at her, noting her child-like appearance, but Lin Jinyan followed the waiter upstairs without a sideways glance. They arrived at a quiet, elegant private room. The waiter pushed open the door, and the master and servant duo stepped inside.

Once inside, Lin Jinyan surveyed her surroundings. The room was not large, but the layout was sophisticated. The calligraphy and paintings on the walls were the works of masters, and the desk in front of them held a set of exquisite scholar's tools.

She walked to the window and looked down. The room was located on the side of the teahouse, offering a perfect view of the carriage from her estate.

After sitting down, she noticed that the tea set on the table was also quite unique.

Lin Jinyan picked up a teacup, turning it over in her hands as she said, "Please find Manager An for me. Tell him Gu Yichen's sister has come to buy tea and ask for his assistance in selecting some."

The waiter's expression remained unchanged. He accepted the request respectfully, then withdrew from the room and closed the door.

Lin Jinyan said, "Mama, once Manager An arrives, I have matters to discuss with him. Please stand guard at the door and do not let anyone enter."

Gu Mama advised, "Miss, although this manager is close with the Second Young Master, there is still a distinction between men and women. Being alone in a room together is improper; it would not sound good if word got out."

Lin Jinyan smiled. "Mama, how old am I? Manager An is likely only slightly older than my second cousin. At most, I view him as an elder brother. With you guarding the door, nothing will be spread."

Just as Gu Mama was about to speak, there was a knock at the door, followed by a dignified voice: "May I come in?"

Lin Jinyan signaled Gu Mama to open the door. Once it opened, An Zhixian entered with a gentle smile, offering a respectful bow to the master and servant.

Lin Jinyan stood up and returned the bow, then smiled and gestured for An Zhixian to be seated before turning her gaze toward Gu Mama.

Gu Mama gave An Zhixian a discerning look, then stepped out and closed the door.

After sitting down, An Zhixian glanced at the tightly closed door and smiled. "Miss Lin, from the looks of it, you do not seem to be here merely to buy tea."

Lin Jinyan sat down and smiled. "Coming to a teahouse is naturally to buy tea. Is Manager An not welcoming of that?"

An Zhixian was dressed in pale yellow robes with a few tea leaves embroidered at his waist, his hair half-bound with a tea-white ribbon, giving him the appearance of a refined, noble gentleman.

Hearing Lin Jinyan's words, his gentle smile widened slightly. "How could that be? It would be my honor to have Miss Lin visit. Allow me to brew a cup of tea for you first. Is there a particular tea you prefer?"

Lin Jinyan said with a smile, "I shall follow the host's lead. I will drink whatever Manager An brews."

An Zhixian smiled. "Then let it be 'Snow Floating in the Green Pool.' The tea is light with a floral fragrance."

As he spoke, he took out a tea canister and began the brewing process with methodical precision. His long, fair fingers were well-defined, and the exquisite teacup complemented his hands perfectly; just watching him made one feel as though the aroma of tea was already filling the air.

Once the tea was brewed, he poured a cup, placed it before Lin Jinyan, and said softly, "Careful, it is hot."

Lin Jinyan lifted the cup and took a scent, her features relaxing. She took a small sip and smiled. "The aroma is rich, the texture is smooth, and it has a fresh, sweet aftertaste. Excellent tea."

As she spoke, she slowly finished the cup, and An Zhixian smiled as he refilled it.

(End of Chapter)