Concern

"Which mountain?"

"I didn't ask." Hesta replied. "My friend only said it would be next week, so I agreed."

"You agreed without even asking where you were going?"

"Mm..." Hesta scratched at her ear awkwardly. "Isn't hiking the same wherever you go?"

Eucali laughed. "If it isn't too far, could I come with you?"

Hesta had been about to agree when she suddenly remembered what had happened with Ding Yuqing last time, so she said nothing.

"Oh, don't feel pressured. It's not like I have to go." Eucali turned away. "I saw a doctor this week. What she said was pretty much the same as what your friend said. It's nothing serious—I just need to regulate myself and relax more..."

"That's good." Hesta took out her phone. "I'm not under any pressure. It's mainly because I'm not the organizer, so it's not up to me... I'll ask now."

Out of the corner of her eye, Eucali watched Hesta's reaction, secretly worried that her sudden request might make Hesta uncomfortable. But it seemed all right. Whether she was typing the message or receiving the reply, Hesta's face carried a faint, almost imperceptible smile. She appeared to be in a good mood.

"It's fine." Hesta looked up. "I gave her your contact information. Once everything is settled, she'll make a group chat for everyone."

That afternoon, Hesta returned home. As she pushed open the door, she saw several extra pairs of men's shoes on the shoe cabinet.

The living room had returned to its usual desolation. Aside from sounds coming from the kitchen, there was no one in sight.

Hearing the door open, Aunt Hong came out of the kitchen and took a look. "Oh, Miss He."

"Is no one around?" Hesta asked softly.

"Mr. Ding and his son are both