In the Tub

"You…" Fei Chuan finally broke the silence.

"You wrote that you didn't mean to reject me. What did you mean by that?"

Bei Sangyun straightened in her seat, her heart pounding. So, he did read it!

"I… I was rude earlier when I declined your invitation to dance. It wasn't because I didn't want to dance with you. I had my reasons, so…"

Her voice softened. "…so I hope you didn't misunderstand."

Fei Chuan remained silent, his expression unreadable. Bei Sangyun swallowed, feeling the weight of the tension between them.

"…How have you been?" she asked, attempting to ease the atmosphere.

"You don't know?" Fei Chuan looked at her with a glint in his eyes, hinting at something.

Bei Sangyun glanced away. "…No."

"Well, I've been fine. The last time we spoke, you told me to stay healthy and live happily. So, here I am—happy." He looked at her steadily. "And you? What brought you back after hiding for four years?"