"I know."
"Grandpa will be waiting for me at the Back Mountain."
"I know that too."
Hu Liena moved closer.
Her lips brushed the side of Tang Chen's neck.
After that brief touch, she stayed there.
"So you need to go to sleep early."
Tang Chen looked at her.
"How am I supposed to sleep when you do that?"
Hu Liena raised her eyes.
"I only kissed you once."
"Mm."
"I kissed you in Slaughter City too."
"On the cheek."
"Does it make a difference?"
"Yes."
A faint blush colored Hu Liena's cheeks.
She raised a hand and pressed it against Tang Chen's chest.
"Then I'll kiss you again."
She leaned up toward him.
Their noses touched lightly.
Tang Chen did not pull away.
Hu Liena looked into his eyes.
Barely any distance remained between them.
"Tang Chen."
"Mm."
"Close your eyes."
"Why?"
"I can't kiss you while you're looking at me."
Tang Chen closed his eyes.
Soft lips touched his.
Hu Liena lingered for only an instant before drawing back.
She did not release the arm around his neck.
"You can open them now."
Tang Chen opened his eyes.
Hu Liena was watching him.
Her cheeks were bright red, and her fingers still gripped his collar.
"Was that the same as before?"
"No."
"What was different?"
"Where you kissed me."
Hu Liena gave his waist a gentle pinch.
"That's all you ever say."
Tang Chen held her back and drew her into his arms again.
"What do you want to hear, then?"
"I want to hear you say you liked it."
Hu Liena rested against his chest.
She did not look up.
"Liked what?"
"The reward I just gave you."
Tang Chen paused for a moment.
"I liked it."
Hu Liena fell quiet.
Her fingers slowly released his collar,