[oh goodness, just wait for the moment when sizhui makes an actual, full-bellied laugh where it sounds far less cute compared to the soft little snicker he's making now. but it's endearing in its own way, to be fair! and while he'd initially be embarrassed about how it sounds, the fact jin ling likes it would make him feel far less self-conscious, and he'd appreciate that a lot. (something he will learn later, for sure—)

as it stands right now, he has let himself focus on lan xichen and jiang cheng again, one hand having lifted to rest his fingertips against his lips during the momentary consideration.

nonetheless, sizhui's shoulders give the faintest shrug as he admits,] I don't know. [because he really, truly doesn't... yet he has some ideas. something he'll mention as soon as he's done letting his mouth hang open in astonishment at this new revelation. did he now? well, gosh, that about settles it, right?

zewu-jun knowing where his favorite tea is inside sect leader jiang's rooms pretty much speaks volumes where words aren't even needed.] Perhaps they didn't want to make it into a big deal until they were ready? [though it's true, if it has been practically a whole year, why continue with the charade? and especially whenever it came to family!] Well, actually... [he trails off, letting the apprehension build, reaching with the same hand he'd raised earlier and clutching whichever of jin ling's hands is closest.] I do hate to be the one to tell you, but there's a very likely chance he did suggest they keep it a secret? For good reason, I'm sure, though.