Seeing that Dugu Yan had spelled things out so clearly, Dugu Feng turned to Ye Lingling.
He asked,
"Do you like me?"
Dugu Yan rolled her eyes at how blunt her younger brother was.
Still, she felt there was hope for them. She grabbed Gu Lei, who was still standing there in a daze, and left.
Watching the two leave, Ye Lingling summoned her courage and nodded.
Dugu Feng fell silent for a moment before saying frankly,
"I don't understand love and romance. If you like me, we can become partners. If you don't, I won't force you."
Hearing his words, Ye Lingling reached out and took his hand.
She lifted her head, her flushed face already serving as a silent answer.
Gathering her courage, Ye Lingling said,
"I don't know when it started, but I realized that my mind was full of you. Yet I could never catch up to you in strength...!"
Feeling the soft hand in his, Dugu Feng drew Ye Lingling into his arms and said,
"I may not understand romance, but I know a good husband needs to protect his wife and children. You don't need to be strong enough, because I'll protect you, just as I protect my sister and grandfather."
Ye Lingling nodded shyly.
Their relationship had no earth-shattering story behind it, but it was straightforward and pure.
"When we get back, I'll ask your mother for your hand."
"Feng, my mother will be delighted to know I can marry you."
"It's getting late. Let's rest tonight and set off for the continent tomorrow."
As though she had already settled into the role of his wife, Ye Lingling nodded. She no longer hid the love in her eyes as she looked at Dugu Feng.
Early the next morning, Dugu Feng boarded the