"That's kind of you."
"It's practical.We're neighbors.Your success benefits the whole area."He paused."And I enjoy your company.You're refreshing.Genuine."
She didn't know what to say to that.
"Viktor still has the best footwork," someone commented from the crowd."But the pun girl's keeping up!"
At the edge of the dancing area, Wren caught sight of Jin.He was watching, his expression carefully neutral.But something in his posture was tense.
And beside him, his mother was watching too.Disapproving, clearly.Her gaze flicked from Viktor to Wren to her son, calculating.
The music swelled, and Viktor spun Wren one final time as the dance ended.The crowd applauded.
"Thank you," Viktor said, bowing slightly."You dance beautifully."
"Thank you for leading.You kept me from falling over."It was an honest observation, but he seemed pleased.
He held her gaze a moment longer than necessary, then stepped back as the next game was announced.
Mei-Lin appeared immediately, linking arms with Wren."Well, that was something!Viktor's laying it on thick."
"He was just being polite."She was getting slightly tired of the constant warnings.
"Wren.Honey.No."Mei-Lin steered her toward the food stalls."That man doesn't do anything without a reason.Come on, let's get something to drink.I need to tell you about—"
"Mei-Lin."
They turned.Jin's mother stood there, perfectly composed in an expensive silk dress.Up close, she was elegant and intimidating.
"Mother," Mei-Lin said, her cheerful tone not quite masking wariness."Having fun?"
"I wanted to meet your new friend."The woman's gaze settled on Wren."You're the girl from the cursed farm.The one with the plant magic."
"The pun farm," Mei-Lin corrected."And yes, this is Wren.Wren, this is my mother, Zhao Lin."
"It's nice to meet you, ma'am."
"Is it?"Zhao Lin's expression was cool."I've heard quite a bit about you.Living alone on dangerous land.Drawing the attention of men like Viktor Andersen."Her tone made it clear she didn't approve of either.
Wren’s brows shot up.
"Mother—" Mei-Lin started.
"I'm simply stating facts.That land has killed everyone who tried to work it.You've been there, what, two weeks?It's early to be celebrating success."
"I'm being careful," Wren said calmly.Jin’s mother wasn’t making a good impression, but she was clearly in mother dragon mode.Her next words confirmed it.
"Are you?Because from what I hear, you're spending quite a bit of time with my son.Jin has responsibilities.A reputation to maintain.He doesn't need complications."
"Mother, that's enough," Mei-Lin said sharply.
"I'm protecting my family."
"You're being rude to a guest at a community festival."
Zhao Lin's expression tightened, but before she could respond, a commotion erupted near the fountain.Raised voices.Someone shouting.
Jin was moving before Wren even registered what was happening, pushing through the crowd with Kenji right behind him.
