Duan Rong was slightly taken aback; he was merely assisting with the case, yet this man kept him back. Moreover, addressing him as 'little friend' made him feel uneasy, raising goosebumps.
Zhu Cheng heard the words, glanced at Duan Rong, and immediately bowed and retreated. Zhu Zhengfu clearly intended to speak with Duan Rong alone.
With Zhu Cheng gone, Duan Rong looked at Zhu Zhengfu with curiosity. Zhu Zhengfu smiled and said, "Little friend, don't rush to conclusions! Let the kitchen prepare a couple of dishes, we can chat while eating."
Duan Rong was even more puzzled: It's not even mealtime, yet they're preparing dishes. What is this old guy up to? Nonetheless, he kept a calm smile, replying, "I appreciate the hospitality, Lord Zhu!"
Zhu Zhengfu laughed and said, "No need to be polite, little friend."
The two chatted idly in the flower hall for a while, then Zhu Zhengfu invited Duan Rong to a study that seemed even more secluded.
