Except for the old man and Tiger Cub.
The hospital room seemed just as it had been before.
"Not them."
The old man waved a hand. "My legs are just a little inconvenient to use right now."
"I can manage the basics of daily life on my own."
"Old Master Zhao."
Xiao Xiao disagreed.
He knew the old man was proud.
But the old man was old, after all.
Having family around to look after him would obviously be best at a time like this.
Besides...
"You don't have to ask them to look after you. It'd be nice if they came to visit, at least."
Most old people liked having company.
Old Master Zhao was staying in a private room, too.
He knew the old man was doing this for Tiger Cub's sake.
And besides, everyone hoped someone would come see them when they were sick, regardless of their age.
When people fell ill, even the strongest among them couldn't help feeling a little vulnerable.
"...I'm embarrassed to tell them."
After a long silence, the old man spoke in a low voice.
His gaze rested blankly on Tiger Cub's head.
A touch of sadness showed in his expression.
Xiao Xiao was just about to say something when the old man lifted his head.
His smile was a little forced.
"There's been a misunderstanding between my family and me."
Xiao Xiao closed his mouth.
Then he smiled faintly. "Old Master Zhao, I'll bring some of my family's pastries to see you tomorrow."
"Tiger Cub likes our pastries too, doesn't he?"
"Aw~"
Tiger Cub's eyes lit up.
Those pastries did taste good.
The old man's tense body relaxed.
"Thank you."
He was grateful for Xiao Xiao's thoughtfulness.
When he'd said that, he'd truly worried that Xiao Xiao would