Huli Jing indeed has a way of comforting one's inner turmoil even when one really doesn't want to be comforted. This dog just doesn't know any better than to be friendly and hopeful, and that tends to put a lot of things in perspective. Li Lianhua just barely catches this accidentally affectionate display out of the corner of his eyes, still not quite daring to look up. Huli Jing certainly knows how to return a kiss in kind and licks Cat's mask happily and Li Lianhua feels nearly overcome with gratitude. How good that Huli Jing found someone new who can really use his company. How good that Cat can't resist it either.

It seems a shame to be addressed again, when those two could enjoy each other's company just fine without him. But Li Lianhua will take the scolding for his thoughtless words with a small smile and a chastised nod. Alright, alright, so maybe the kite would still be worthwhile even if it failed to fulfill its purpose. His fault for suggesting otherwise. But crucially, not a no to his question.

The return to Cat making charming unashamed demands for Li Lianhua to join him finally relieves the last of the tension, making it seem like nothing had been on a knife's edge at all. A narrow-eyed look and moue of amused annoyance at the boy is easily done, shaking his head. "No, not too hard," he retorts wryly and braces against the bench to push to his feet. So much abuse really had been uncalled for. Picking up the basket, he gestures out to the path. "Well then, lead the way, young man. Someone's going to have to get that kite into the wind, and I'm afraid my knees are a little achy today." So strange how that is.