"Sorry for the trouble, Sect Master Ning." Zhao Linchuan nodded slightly.
"No need to mention it. I'll be off now."
Ning Fengzhi glanced at his daughter once more, then turned and left.
After he was gone, Zhao Linchuan supported Ning Rongrong as they crossed the corridor and entered a quiet lounge.
The room was clean and tidy. A soft couch stood against the wall, covered with a plush blanket.
Sunlight filtered through the gauze curtains, spreading a warm golden glow across the floor.
"Rongrong, get some rest here for now." Zhao Linchuan helped her sit on the couch and spoke gently. "As soon as we find the Clear Sky Sect's hideout, I'll let you know."
With that, he turned and headed for the door.
"Linchuan."
Ning Rongrong called after him. Her voice was weak, tinged with a hint of timidness.
Zhao Linchuan stopped and looked back at her.
"Could you stay and keep me company?"
Ning Rongrong sat on the couch with her hands on her knees, her head slightly bowed.
Sunlight fell across her face. Her tears had yet to dry, and her eyes were red, making her look especially heart-wrenching.
Zhao Linchuan looked at her and fell silent for a moment.
"I'll ask Xiao Wu to come keep you company." His voice was gentle, with a hint of apology. "I've been away from home for half a month. I need to go back and check on things."
With that, he left the lounge without looking back.
His footsteps gradually faded into the distance.
Ning Rongrong hung her head and gazed at the door that had closed behind him. Tears silently slipped down her cheeks once more.
She reached up and wiped her face, her voice so faint it was almost inaudible.
"Does he not like me?"
A moment