(Thank you very much to 'Gs Da Shi,' 'Lei Xiang,' and 'Yume no Shouyou' for the rewards!)
"Anyway, take your clothes off first!"
The words were not particularly loud, yet they echoed with startling clarity through the silent space, spreading in every direction and instantly freezing the atmosphere at the scene...
"..."
Wu Yan and Hilif looked at each other. One wore a smile, while the other remained expressionless. Perhaps the pallor on her face had suppressed the rush of blood that should have risen, but Hilif was indeed staring fixedly at Wu Yan. There was not the slightest ripple in her eyes, yet she made him feel immensely pressured.
Gradually, a droplet slid down Wu Yan's forehead. It was impossible to tell whether it was water or sweat, but the smile on his face was visibly stiffening by the second.
"..." Hilif silently watched Wu Yan without speaking. However, the arms wrapped around her body tightened slightly, as though she wanted her clothes pressed tightly against herself—or as though she feared someone might suddenly make a move on them. Only her gaze had yet to turn vigilant.
After a moment of silence, the stiff smile on Wu Yan's face returned to normal.
"If I said I meant no harm, would you believe me?..."
"..." Hilif continued to look at Wu Yan silently, her arms tightening more and more around herself, plainly giving him the answer in her heart...
The smile on his face collapsed, and Wu Yan dejectedly moved some distance away from Hilif.
"I'll turn around. Hurry up and change out of those wet clothes first..."
Having said that, Wu Yan immediately prepared to turn around. However, Hilif's sudden words froze him in place.
"Where are the clothes to change into?..."
"..."
The scene once again fell into