They sat there for a few moments longer, neither speaking.
The lanterns glowed.
Then—
**"We should probably get back,"** Jin said quietly, finally breaking the silence.
**"Mm,"** Ming Ji agreed, reluctantly standing. "The others are probably wondering where we went."
Jin got to his feet. **"They'll think we ran away together,"** he said dryly.
Ming Ji chuckled. **"Probably."**
Together, they started toward HQ.
̶The walk back was quiet—soft footsteps on moonlit streets, their hands still linked.
Jin glanced sideways. **"Hey."**
**"Hm?"** Ming Ji turned his head.
**"Thanks,"** Jin muttered. **"For… you know. The lanterns."**
Ming Ji smiled. **"Worth it to see you speechless for once."**
Jin rolled his eyes—but didn't let go of his hand.
Then, just as HQ came into view— a shout rang out from the rooftop.
**"Took you long enough!"**
