By the year she turned thirty-six, Li Xiang had spent most of her life buried in endless work.
After years of saving the money he earned through steady work, Shrike had finally bought a car and a home. After all those twists and turns, the feelings he had kept buried for years could no longer be held back.
He sought out Gen, intending to ask him for advice on pursuing Li Xiang.
When Gen heard his plan, his eyes lit up. He tapped his fingertips lightly against the table, his voice full of surprise.
"Oh my, I thought little Shrike was going to keep dragging this out forever. After all these years, who knows what Little Li Xiang is really thinking?"
Shrike stood there, his whole body tense and his palms faintly sweaty. Anxiety was written all over his face, with none of his usual composure.
"I'm not sure either," he said quietly, uncertainty in his voice. "I keep thinking it wouldn't be strange if she'd gotten used to being alone. She's shouldered everything herself all these years."
Unease churned inside him, leaving him with little confidence.
After so many years at her side, he could not tell whether Li Xiang saw their bond as friendship or something more.
Gen reached out and gave his shoulder a firm pat, reassuring him with conviction.
"Don't overthink it. I believe Little Li Xiang isn't like that. Relax, leave this to us."
With that, Gen went to find Yuzuriha and Ruri.
"Sorry for the trouble, but could you two help spruce this guy up? He's getting ready to confess to Li Xiang."
Yuzuriha agreed at once, brisk and decisive. "No problem. Leave it to me."
They gathered around Shrike and got to work, styling his hair and straightening his clothes, turning his somewhat