If you didn't mind, we could finish this meal together.
I happened to want to ask about the weather in the waters ahead.
Of course I didn't mind. I heard there might be storms in those waters soon. If you took that route, you'd better be careful.
Jiaji's voice grew excited again. He felt that he had a chance again.
Mu Chen listened to the increasingly lively conversation at the neighboring table. He lifted a glass of beer and took a sip. Sunlight streamed through the window, spilling across the table with a pleasant warmth.
Mu Chen thought perhaps this wasn't so bad. At least Tokikake was no longer wallowing in the disappointment of being rejected.
As for whether Tokikake truly liked Ella, or how long he could like her, none of that mattered.
Mu Chen watched Tokikake animatedly tell Ella about the conditions in those waters, an unconscious smile of helplessness tugging at his lips.
Mu Chen silently finished the last piece of grilled meat on his plate, wiped his mouth, and watched the two people at the neighboring table rise to leave after their cheerful conversation.
He walked over to Jiaji, patted him on the shoulder, and said, "I'm heading back to Headquarters first. Watch yourself."
"Got it, got it. You go ahead. I'll leave with Miss Ella later."
Tokikake was in the middle of an enthusiastic explanation. Without even looking up, he waved his hand.
Mu Chen smiled helplessly and glanced at Ella again. Ella gave him a polite nod. There was no particular emotion in her eyes, yet for some reason, Mu Chen always felt that something was hidden behind that smile.
He said nothing more and turned to leave the barbecue restaurant.
After returning to Marine Headquarters, Mu Chen handled some detention documents. His days