Finally, we arrived at her place, where I found myself unwilling to let go.
After a few moments of silently gazing into each other’s eyes, I finally said “I don’t think I have ever thanked you, milady.”
“Thank me? Why would you ever do that?”
I shrugged “Before I came here, my spirit was tired and weary. In this place, with you, I have finally found solace.”
Tears sprung from her eyes as she stared at me, her hand coming up to caress my cheek. “I… I too have found solace in your presence, Shen Mu. From my past and my loss.” She bit her lip “Wo-would you do me one last favor, as a friend?”
I nodded, not daring to speak, scared that my voice would break.
“Would you let me watch as you challenge the heavenly tribulation?”
“Of course,” I answered, pulling out my handkerchief and gently dabbing her face to dry her tears. I bit back my next words ‘anything for you.’
She began leading me into the house, but I stopped her.