Kain didn't speak for a long moment.
He just studied her.
Bai Lian stood beneath the sunlight like a stray pulled from the edge of a storm—uncertain, but not afraid. And more importantly… not aggressive.
Eventually, Kain exhaled and relaxed his arms from their folded position.
The tension in his jaw eased. His glare softened.
She really wasn't here to fight him for the inheritance.
That much, he could feel.
She probably is only thinking of 'competing' to the extent of giving it a shot for herself if he failed.
And so, for the first time since she'd entered the courtyard, Kain let himself breathe.
"…Fine," he muttered. "Let's talk."
Bai Lian blinked in surprise. "…Eh? I thought you were going to say something scary, or threaten me to leave. Not—okay. Sure."
He rolled his eyes. "You're not worth all that effort."
"Charming as always…" She muttered under her breath
He didn't rise to the bait.
