The evening breeze lingered tenderly, the river of stars hung low, and ripples stirred softly by the secluded lake, shattering the brilliant moonlight across the sky.
Xue Mingqing's gentle yet resolute words drifted upon the evening breeze, thoroughly soothing every wound and unease Ning Yurong had accumulated over the past year.
Their shoulders leaned together, their hair intertwined. The quiet night gently enveloped the embracing pair; time was peaceful, and the moonlit breeze was tender.
After a long while, Ning Yurong quietly rested against his warm shoulder, listening to his steady, reassuring heartbeat. Every grievance, unease, and bitterness in her eyes gradually faded away.
In their place was a faint hint of mischief and amusement.
She knew Xue Mingqing far too well.
The world believed him cold and detached, indifferent to desire and emotion, deep and unfathomable in thought. He had always kept others at a measured distance and never readily showed tenderness.
Yet only those who truly came close to him and entered his heart knew that beneath his seemingly indifferent exterior lay the utmost gentleness and softness.
There had never been any unnecessary romantic entanglements around him. Very few women could truly remain by his side and receive his patient care and gentle tolerance.
Other than her, there was only Sister Lexuan.
For a long time, Sister Lexuan had treated him with gentleness and consideration, silently waiting by his side without ever leaving. Her feelings had always been clear and sincere, never concealed.
And Xue Mingqing had always treated her well too, patiently indulging and caring for her in every way, never betraying even the slightest bit of her sincerity.
In the past, the two had restrained themselves and kept their distance because of their identities. No one had pierced that thin windowpaper of mutual affection, yet they