Yue Ning and Huo Yan walked along the bustling street. The air was filled with chatter, vendors' calls, and the fragrance of roasted chestnuts drifting from the roadside stalls.
The noise and energy of the city did little to lift Huo Yan's gloomy mood. Her small hands hung loosely by her sides, and her eyes lacked their usual sparkle.
Spotting a stall draped with colorful scarves, Yue Ning tugged her gently toward it. "Let's get some scarves, shall we? I think one would look good on you," she suggested with a bright smile.
Huo Yan only pressed her lips together, her expression distant.
Yue Ning's heart sank instantly. She had hoped the outing would lighten the girl's mood, but it was futile.
With a sigh, she placed a hand on Huo Yan's shoulder. "I just wanted to cheer you up," she said softly. "But if it isn't working, we can go home." She then turned to leave.
But suddenly, a small tug on her sleeve stopped her.
