-----
Before they could leave, Bao Rui hurried forward, short legs stumbling as he tugged at his sleeves. His breath came out uneven.
"W-wait… don't go!"
He glanced once toward where Han Bo had already gone, then lowered his head and bowed, small body folding clumsily.
"I—I'm sorry," he said, voice trembling. "I shouldn't have taken it." He sniffed, fingers curling tight. "I didn't mean to cause trouble."
He turned toward Dong Hai and bowed again. "Didi, I'm sorry," he said quietly. "I didn't know you'd get in trouble because of me."
Dong Hai was silent for a moment, standing straight, hands neatly at his sides. His gaze rested on Bao Rui, steady and thoughtful.
"You already gave it back," Dong Hai said at last, voice even and gentle. "That's good. But next time," he added, not unkindly, "you should ask first. Things like this cause misunderstandings."
Bao Rui nodded quickly. "I will," he said at once. "I promise."
