( she clutches him fractionally tighter, the tug on her emotions making her heart beat all the faster. gratitude is such a powerful device. wen qing, with the personality of a big sister, never really expects it, but — it goes a long way, softening her up. she and jiang cheng have never had much time when it's just the two of them, but the minutes feel like seconds, just moments in a grander scheme. )

Then, we'll look after each other. As we've always done.

( as they walk, there comes a small bridge overlooking a clear pond, where a pair of koi fish flirt and dance around each other. wen qing pauses at the railing, watching them swim. )

What if, ( she takes a breath, eyes stuck fast on the water. ) I rejected your advancements? Would you still look after me?