Trust

There was no question that I wouldn't let him go on this trip alone and avoid me further. After finishing the brew and cleaning up the kitchen, I was about to start packing and get ready for an early night's sleep when I realized that … he hadn't told me where he was going.

How could I pack without knowing what was needed for the destination? He really didn't expect me to want to join him on the trip at all, did he?

I sighed. It was rare to see Bai Ye's insecure side like this. But whether or not he expected it, I was going, and I'd convince him if I had to. I stepped out of my room, crossed the garden, and was rounding the corner to his room when I saw him sitting on the long bench by the corridor, staring into the moonless sky.

My steps halted.

He heard me and looked my way. "Do you need help with anything?" he asked.