This time, Lu Yuan was no longer deliberately gentle or holding himself back.
The weight of the coming journey pressed on his heart, along with the life-or-death battle ahead and his deep sense of guilt and reluctance toward them. All his emotions became the most unvarnished expression of his attachment and devotion.
The women seemed to understand in an instant the heaviness and resolve in his heart.
No one backed away. No one dodged. No one said another unnecessary word.
They simply drew close in silence, accompanying him, holding him up, supporting him in their own way, and telling him through their warmth and breathing:
No matter how perilous the road ahead, they would always be behind him.
Two days and two nights passed slowly in a quiet, tender atmosphere.
There was no noise, no conversation, only the warmth of being close to one another and the unspoken words hidden in their hearts: "Wait for you to come back."
When he opened his eyes again, a faint fish-belly white had already appeared beyond the window.
The women slept deeply on the wide bed. Their faces were weary, yet peaceful.
Ye Qingyue's silver hair was tousled, her brows slightly relaxed.
Xia Qingyin had curled into a tiny ball.
Jiang Xuanran lay on her side, the faintest smile still on her lips.
Celicia's breathing was steady.
Shamirra's cheeks were slightly flushed, like a contented little beast.
Lu Yuan gazed quietly at them. At last, the corners of his mouth, tightly drawn for days, curved into a tender, aching smile.
He bent down and gently pressed a light kiss to each of their foreheads.
"I'm sorry, but I'll have to be away for the next few months."
His voice was so soft that only he could hear it. "Some things have to be