As they walked, Ruofeng leaned more and more on Qifeng’s arm. Ultimately, he softened, released her hand, and crouched down, patting his back, “Come on!” Ruofeng came back from her daze, “What?”
Qifeng smiled at her, “Second Brother will carry you home.” He crouched before her, shoulders broad enough to block all wind and rain. Feeling a surge of emotion, Ruofeng leaned forward and wrapped her arms around his neck, “Second Brother!”
Qifeng lifted her with both hands, standing up while frowning, “Why are you getting lighter?”
Ruofeng sniffled, poking his back, “If I were heavy enough for you to feel, I’d be as fat as a pig.”
“Pigs are quite cute,” Qifeng pondered.
Ruofeng stared at him in frustration, “If I’m as fat as a pig, how could I get married? I’d be eating you for life.”
“Okay, I’ll support you!” Qifeng replied.
Ruofeng, realizing arguing was futile, obediently leaned on his shoulder. After a while, she mumbled, “Second Brother, why do you think Suifeng would commit suicide? Is it because of Ning Yuan?”
Qifeng raised an eyebrow, remaining silent.
Ruofeng continued, “Second Brother, do you know? Ning Yuan recognized me. He said he loves me, always has.”
Qifeng’s steps slightly paused, suddenly feeling nervous.
Ruofeng pressed her face to his back, “I’m happy, and sad. Hearing that the person I love also loves me feels real. But why did love turn into a tragedy for three people? I’m selfish, and I don’t want Suifeng’s death to be because Ning Yuan still loves me. Even though I’m not at fault, I feel uneasy.”
Qifeng exhaled and continued walking, his steps slightly unsteady. “Do you still love him?” he asked.
Ruofeng nodded. “Yes, I still love him.”
Qifeng’s heart ached, though his face showed nothing. “Is that so?” he said hoarsely.
Ruofeng closed her eyes, soaking in the warmth from her brother’s body. “But we’re impossible now. Whether Suifeng lives or dies, we can’t go back. There’s always Suifeng between us, my death, my father and brothers’ pain—an unresolvable wound. So, Second Brother, get ready to support me!”
Qifeng’s eyes shone in the night. “Okay.”
“Second Brother, do you think she will die?” Ruofeng asked.
