Chapter 402 - 402: Soulmates Under Autumn (1/2)

”Excuse me, you lovely couple right there!”

The city square was one of the most popular tourist spots in Fenhua City. Despite the numerous tourists meandering in every direction, the area was incredibly spacious that you could run around without bumping into anyone.

”Excuse me, you two!”

There were all kinds of booths that offer various sorts of products that you can buy as souvenirs. But what Lillie liked the most were the food stalls, obviously.

She was nibbling on some sweet, dried permissions while she and Ethan watched the street performers. Along with the rest of the audience listening to the wonderful violin play, they clapped and dropped money on the case.

”Y-you two, excuse me...”

Lillie and Ethan turned their attention towards the voice behind them.

They saw a well-dressed man with unassuming features sighing in relief when he finally caught the couple's attention. He was wearing a backpack and holding a sketchpad.

Judging from the charcoal smudge on his hand, this man must be an artist.

He smiled politely and said, ”I apologize for interrupting your lovely afternoon, but I'm a street artist, you see, and I was wondering if you two would like a quick portrait?”

”Sorry, but we already got one.” Ethan showed him the paper bag in his hand. Inside was an A4-sized frame wrapped in brown paper.

”O-oh, I see, I'm sorry.” The artist stammered in embarrassment, his face flushing red. ”E-even so, wouldn't you like another one as a souvenir? I bet my sketch is prettier than the one you have.”

”I can tell there's a real reason behind why you're being insistent.” Ethan narrowed his eyes at him in suspicion. He brought Lillie closer to him by wrapping his arm protectively around her waist. ”What is it?”

The odd artist took note of Ethan's heightened guard on Lillie but didn't find it offensive. He has every right to be wary around a stranger.

”You're awfully perceptive, aren't you? Fine, I admit it's not about business. I'm a passionate artist and I'm here in Fenhua to search for a. inspiration in my art. This sideline was just some sort of excuse to sketch. And since people were willing to pay for my service, why not take advantage of it? Nothing wrong with extra income.”

Unless that extra income obstructs other people who are actually trying to earn a living.

There were other street artists here at the square, and he's practically obstructing business by stealing potential customers. Especially since he doesn't have permission to run his sideline here.

Not that anyone but himself has to know. He'll just bolt out of the place once the authorities come in to check everyone's papers.

But to his defense, people insist they pay for his art. He wasn't opening a business. People simply assume he was a street artist and therefore ask to have their portrait done.

Nonetheless, don't be like him, people.

”If you'd like, I can give it to you for free, call it a favor from me.” The artist laughed and scratched his neck sheepishly.

This was the first time in years since something caught his attention to the point of pursuit. He would be a fool as to miss this opportunity.

”And why run after us in particular?” Lillie questioned with a raised eyebrow.

”I've been all over the place sketching and nothing just seems to catch my eyes.” He explained with exasperation. ”Until I saw you two. I decided that I would live a regretful life if I let this chance slip past.”

”Well, if that's the case, why not?” Lillie nodded with Ethan.

”Many thanks! The name's Leo, by the way.” He brightly grinned, offering them a handshake.

”Thea,” Lillie shook his hand with a single stroke. ”This is my husband.”