"I am sorry..."

Luo Muchen felt a heaviness in his chest as he stared at Qie Xieling. Their two gazes met for a moment with neither of them saying anything.

After what seemed like forever Qie Xieling lay his head on Luo Muchen's shoulder exhaling softly.

Luo Muchen stared at the head of hair tickling his neck and his throat rolled before he lay the side of his face on top of Qie Xieling's head.

As the night wore on, they remained hidden in the cave, the shadows their only companions. They clung to each other, their bodies pressed close in a desperate bid for warmth and solace. And in the darkness, Luo Muchen silently vowed that he would do whatever it took to keep Qie Xieling safe, even if it meant keeping his secret forever.

***

"Lin Lin!" called out a hoarse voice like they had a sore throat or something.