The way he blinks in mild astonishment, replaying the compliment in his head so as to be sure he didn't mis-hear, happens as a blush builds in his ears and spreads high on his cheeks. A breath of a laugh leaves him as he ducks his head to gather some semblance of an appropriate expression that isn't unexpectedly flattered to the point of briefly stealing his words. The flowers are gathered and regathered in his hands as he settles them in place for something to do, before Xichen finally manages to meet Jiang Cheng's gaze.

His own is bright and fond, dusted in a shyness he works past with the help of manners.

"I understand now why Wanyin has won such favour with the locals," teasing him with a steady look, "even, perhaps, when fully dressed."