In Chen Rou’s view, the traits that Xiao Zhang perceived as the result of a cultivated upbringing in Ayuan were not really the result of education at all. Rather, they were the product of subtle influence and immersion—the living example set by Nie Zhao.
For instance, although Nie Zhao did not performatively dote on the Nie siblings the way Nie Yao did, if the children liked a particular dish at the dinner table, he would merely glance at the domestic staff, and the serving order would be adjusted accordingly. Or, if Ayuan ate his meal well and kept himself clean, Nie Zhao would reward him with a lollipop. Over time, Ayuan learned to keep himself tidy quite consciously.
Of course, today he was partially putting on an act—pretending to be polite—since there was a little guest visiting. If he were at home alone, he would have finished his meal and been off on his bike, leaving nothing but a blur in his wake.
Chapter 604