Stepping out from his hiding spot, he called out softly, "Mother?"
Startled, she turned to face him, her eyes widening with surprise. "Liang, what are you doing here?" she asked, her voice tinged with a mix of worry and relief.
"I saw you sneaking out, and I couldn't help but follow. Are you okay?" Liang inquired gently, trying to gauge her emotions.
She hesitated for a moment, then sighed, "There are matters that I must attend to, my son. But I promise, it's nothing you need to worry about."
Concerned but respecting her decision to keep things private, Liang nodded, "Alright, Mother. Just know that I'm here for you if you ever need someone to talk to."
A flicker of gratitude crossed her eyes, and she embraced him, holding him close. "Thank you, Liang. You're a caring son, and I'm proud of you," she whispered.
