Stealing Your Heart

On the plaque, he saw some words written in black and embossed in gold. The writing conveyed a sense of power and magnificence.

“What’s written here?” Tawan asked.

Zong Yanxi looked up as saw the words ‘Phoenix Pavilion’ written in Mandarin. She explained to Tawan, “Legend has it that a queen used to live here. That’s why it’s named as Phoenix Pavilion.”

Tawan blinked as he pondered about the meaning of her words.

Zong Yanxi asked, “Do you get it?”

After a pause, she continued, “The queen is the wife of the emperor in ancient days while the phoenix is the king of birds in our nation. To reflect the majestic nature of the queen, she was thus referred to as the phoenix.”

“Your country does have a unique culture. Everything needs to be expressed indirectly.” Tawan seemed to have understood.

Zong Yanxi smiled, “You are learning fast.”

“Come, let’s take a look inside,” Zong Yanxi suggested.

Tawan followed her. “Can you teach me how to write in Mandarin?”

“If you want me to be your teacher, you will have to pay for it.” Zong Yanxi looked at him and joked, “Since you’re so rich, I should charge you ten thousand an hour.”

Tawan replied, “Of course.”

Zong Yanxi laughed. “I’m just kidding.”

“Ten thousand for an hour. You will be my teacher,” Tawan repeated.

Zong Yanxi was speechless.

Tawan’s earnest expression. There was no way she could abandon her student

Whatever.

to take you in as my student.” Zong Yanxi walked towards one of the vendors who was selling antique fans. They were made of satin and had exquisite motifs embroidered on top. At the bottom, there was a red ribbon tied to it. As she picked one up for a closer look, Tawan

Zong Yanxi. “What’s written

it shared sorrow; it is undying and lingers

replied,

you ever gone to school? This is a poem by Li Qingzhao. How can

stall. Since when have

a famous poet in our country. He talks about love here

was about eight feet tall and had masculine features. The thought of him holding the fan

sell his wares that he lied

it down and shook his head. “I

Yanxi saw how persistent the vendor was, she asked, “How much for

“Fifteen.”

to fiddle through her purse but

“Let me pay.”

not asking for more. After all, a man like Tawan wasn’t going to ask for a discount in front of

the vendor kept the money and commented, “Your

 This damn foreigner has taken another

the fan in her hand, Zong Yanxi glanced at the vendor and

mistake.” The vendor smiled awkwardly when he realized he

a pretty girl like

Zong Yanxi felt like going home as she hadn’t had much opportunity to spend time with her parents. Since