@mysteryunknown sent: "I have acquired a meal tonight for you," A smile plays at Zhongli's lips, distantly self satisfied. They are rather peculiarly dressed down, jacket and tie absent with the aroma of spices clinging to them.
"While I will not be able to dine with you, I will be present. Please come to Wanmin when you so have the time." Though there were other high class restaurants that could cater to a celebration as such━ Wanmin was not only familiar, but welcoming still to the Fatui. It would not do to make such an occasion discomforting.
And Chef Mao was rather gracious in allowing them to work off such a hefty bill. It'd been quite some time since they'd done menial work like cooking and waiting tables. It was quite refreshing. "I must go now, Happy Birthday, Childe."
“Oh?” Childe cocks a brow at his dear friend’s words and his own smile grows on his face. Blue eyes roam down and up their form, drinking in the choice of clothes. They look nice on them; Zhongli has always had an impeccable sense of style. And the scent of spice is not lost on Childe, in fact, it raises some questions.
But if Zhongli wishes to keep their secrets then so be it, their words seem to hint that Childe will learn of the surprise sooner or later.
“Wow, Zhongli, you really know how to treat a guy, don’t you?” he teases, chin resting in his palm. He believes it to be the first time Zhongli has paid for a meal for- him, not them both, and a small frown yanks at his features before he schools his expression. Zhongli seems proud of themself, and Childe chooses to trust them in whatever they’ve done.
A warm smile relaxes across his face despite the goodbye and he almost forgets to speak in return. Almost.
“Thank you, Xiansheng! I won’t be long. I just need to finish this report and then I’ll head right on over.”
And that’s exactly what he does; finishes his report, informs Ekaterina of his intentions, and makes his way to Chihu Rock - and if anyone catches him with a pep in his step, they will know better than to speak of it.
