*Runze's POV*
I step out of my room into the quiet guest wing corridor, pulling the door shut behind me with a soft click.
A moment later, the door next door opens.
Ling Yue emerges, having changed into the soft cotton clothes I gave him. The shirt sits a little loosely on his shoulders—a telltale sign of the weight he's lost over the past two days—but after a hot shower and proper rest, the exhaustion on his face has eased considerably.
A trace of his usual color has returned.
Before either of us can speak, a familiar voice drifts from the far end of the hallway.
"Runze dear."
I turn instinctively.
Grandmother is making her way down the corridor toward us, dressed as always, with effortless elegance despite being inside the estate. Mrs. Wen walks half a step behind her while two maids follow quietly in a practiced procession.
I smile, taking a step forward. "Grandmother."
