The dining room gradually quietens. Mrs. Wen and the household staff move around the long table with practiced efficiency, silently clearing away empty bowls and serving platters.
Ling Yue sits quietly in his seat, his hands wrapped loosely around the warm teacup Mrs. Wen refilled for him before stepping back. A trace of color has returned to his skin, but the bone-deep exhaustion in his eyes remains completely unchanged.
I push my chair back and stand up first. "Come on."
Ling Yue blinks, looking up with slow, dazed movements. "...Hm?"
"I'll show you to your room."
He hesitates for a brief beat before standing, pulling Bael's coat a little tighter around his shoulders. It still looks absurdly oversized on him, the broad lapels swallowing his slender frame and the long sleeves hiding most of his hands.
Mrs. Wen offers a gentle smile as we pass the dining archway.
"If you need anything at all, Sir, please don't hesitate to let us know."
