"Isn't that always your nature? Optimism?" Not that Jiang Cheng can be particularly sour about it, given how well it has worked out for him this time. He knows that Xichen looks for the best in people, that he tries to be good, and strong, and has a pride to him for all his gentleness - but he had never imagined it might lead to anything like this.

There's still a bit of childish embarrassment to him, a flush that makes his body shift a little before he turns his head back up to look at Xichen.

"Bolder than what has already been said?" He shakes his head. "As you please."