At dusk.
Inside the Calligraphy and Painting Shop in a secluded, shabby alley in Su City.
"Did you miss me that much?"
Lin Zhishui looked down at Little Snake in his arms, slightly taken aback. He smiled and patted her back, saying softly, "You haven't been away from me that long. I told you I should have gone with you."
From the way she felt in his arms, he had the impression that she had matured a little during their time apart.
"But it still felt so long..." She Xilu wrapped both arms around his waist, pressed her forehead against his chest, and whispered, "It's the first time I've ever been away from you for so long..."
Lin Zhishui paused.
Had Little Snake changed over the past few days, too?
Not only did she stutter less than before, but she also seemed more confident. She actually had the courage to say something so straightforward. In the past, even if she hadn't blushed, she would have stammered too badly to get it out.
Sure enough... getting out more, meeting strangers, and talking to people really is a good way to treat autism.
Lin Zhishui sighed inwardly and stroked her head, feeling rather pleased. With a quiet chuckle, he said, "We have plenty of years ahead of us. What's this little bit of time? You've grown from this trip, too. Isn't that a good thing?"
"Mm..." She Xilu nodded, still holding him.
She had leaped straight into the Supreme One Realm and was only half a step away from reaching the Heavenly Dao. She had certainly grown a great deal.
"There's still plenty ahead of you. Are you confident?" Lin Zhishui asked.
"Uh..." She Xilu hesitated before whispering, "I'm a little scared... but having your paintings makes me feel much safer."
Lin