Su Xinyao's outstretched hand fell on empty air, but the smile on her face didn't waver.
She smoothly drew it back, tucking a stray lock of hair at her temple as if the gesture had been perfectly ordinary.
Her gaze quickly shifted to Lu Xiao, filled with a perfect blend of respect and a touch of warmth.
"Oh, Deputy Commander Lu, you're here too! What a coincidence. I was just on my way to the dorms to look for Su Tang; I didn't expect to run into you all here."
She gave the mesh bag in her hand a little swing. Inside, several red apples looked particularly plump and fresh.
"My family sent them from back home. I brought some for Su Tang to have a taste. She's injured, so she needs to build her strength back up."
Lu Xiao stood by Su Tang's side, his tall frame like a silent wall.
He was expressionless, merely nodding at Su Xinyao in acknowledgment.
