Song's lips twitched, revealing the faintest ghost of a smile. "If that's what it takes to keep you safe, I'll accept the title."
Her chest ached in a way she didn't want to name. So she laughed instead, brushing past him lightly. "Careful, Song. If you start playing the role too well, I might get used to it."
As she made her way toward the stairs, she felt his gaze follow her, steady and unyielding, like a silent promise. He didn't ask about the mark again, didn't demand explanations. He simply… was there.
And for tonight, that was enough.
[System Notification.]
[Bond Strengthened: "Song – Silent Shield"]
[Loyalty: 97% → 99%
Hidden Trait Unlocked: "Guardian's Restraint" – Song will never force answers from you, but his actions will shift subtly to shield you from harm.]
However, Ling Yu was too restless and a bit drunk to look at the notifications, silencing them all.
