"You came," she said softly, brushing her hair back behind her ear. "I was worried you'd change your mind."
"I said I'd come," Long Yifan replied coolly. His tone was distant but not rude.
Encouraged, Li Mian reached out to hold his hand, her fingers lightly brushing his. "I'm really glad you—"
He stepped back immediately, expression freezing. His voice dropped. "Don't touch me."
Li Mian blinked, stunned. "W-what?"
"Respect yourself," he said flatly. "And respect me."
Her breath caught in her throat. Eyes stinging, she turned away quickly so he wouldn't see the way her smile cracked. Around her, no one seemed to notice—but one person did.
Bai Qing.
Standing nearby, Bai Qing took a sip from her cup and gave a small, amused smirk. She walked over casually, as if she had seen nothing at all. But Li Mian knew better.
"Rough night?" Bai Qing asked lightly.
Li Mian didn't answer.
