Right here, right now

As Wu Long returned to the Palace the next day, he noticed slight redness and swelling around the eyes of the beauty who was tasked with greeting and escorting him, indicating a night of tears. He gently smiled to Bi Rui, and as they walked by the garden in the corridor they spoke at last time, halted his steps, prompting her to stop as well.

"Was she that angry with you?"

"... She was, but she eventually forgave me"

Bi Rui said as her eyes reddened again while she thought to the conversation with Yu Huan the night before. She turned to see a calm gaze without any signs of pity, but it somehow made her feel reassured.

"Thank you"

"It was not me who made her forgive you"

"But it was you who gave me the courage to tell her the truth"

"And I am glad it turned out for the good"

Wu Long smiled as Bi Rui's ears slightly reddened.

"Say, why do you help me? You helped me back then, and now..."