The dawn's gentle light seeped through the curtains, casting a tranquil glow across the room as snowflakes danced gracefully outside the window, adding a serene, almost ethereal quality to the morning. Wrapped in the warmth of our shared cocoon beneath the plush covers, the quiet contentment of the moment enveloped us, creating a peaceful sanctuary from the outside world. Xiao's fingers tenderly played with my hair, a soothing gesture that brought a smile of deep affection to my lips.
Propped on my elbow, I watched him with a fondness that felt both comforting and profound. His focus on the simple, affectionate act between us felt grounding, yet beneath this calm, questions that had been simmering in the back of my mind began to gently bubble to the surface. I had been contemplating broaching a topic we had delicately avoided, a conversation about honesty and hidden truths that lingered like a shadow in our interactions.
"Xiao—when you mentioned that San wasn't being honest, you knew about his fiancée, didn't you?" I murmured softly, tracing a delicate line down his chest, seeking not just answers but understanding from the depths of his thoughtful gaze.
Xiao's hand paused in my hair, a moment of hesitation washing over his features before he met my inquiry. There was a flicker of contemplation, perhaps concern, before he responded. "My involvement wasn't my place—I couldn't step between you two, even knowing the truth. It was his responsibility to come clean... and I only discovered it a few days prior," he whispered, his voice a low murmur tinged with a hint of regret.
"You weren't a prize to be claimed in a competition—you're a person, Woonie." His words were gentle, underscored by a deep respect and a subtle sadness for the situation that had unfolded.
Absorbing his words, I nodded slowly, feeling the weight of his sincerity. The truth, though heavy, forged a stronger connection between us, not as a barrier but as a bridge—his honesty reinforcing the trust I had in him. "I appreciate that, Xiao. It means a lot that you respect me enough to let me handle my own relationships. But it must have been difficult for you, holding onto that knowledge."
Xiao let out a soft sigh, his fingers resuming their comforting motion through my hair. "It wasn't easy, but I believe in integrity where it matters most. And for you, I thought it crucial that you heard the truth from him directly, not from me." His gaze was earnest, seeking mine, filled with unwavering sincerity. "I care about you, Woonie. I want you to be treated with the honesty and respect you rightly deserve."
