The market buzzed in the distance as Yu's father turned to his son with a firm but caring expression. "Yu, you seem to know your way around here very well. Stay with Zian and make sure he doesn't get lost. He's not familiar with the streets yet. And if you feel like someone is watching you, take Zian and head home immediately. Or, if you prefer, just wait for me here. I won't take long."
Yu smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Don't worry about us, Father. As long as Zian is with me, nothing will happen to him. But where exactly are you going, leaving us here all alone?"
Yu's father sighed, already accustomed to his son's playful nature. "I'm going to meet an old friend. It's not a place suitable for you two, so stay here and look after Zian. Understood?"
Yu waved his hand dismissively. "Alright, alright. Go on. But don't take too long! I'll show Zian around while you're gone."
His father gave them a final look, his tone softening. "Don't wander too far, Yu. I don't want both of you getting lost."
"Of course, you care more about Zian than me," Yu teased, laughing. "But fine, I'll keep him safe."
With that, his father walked off, leaving the two boys behind. Yu turned to Zian with a playful grin. "Come on, Zian! I'll show you the best place in this entire market. You're going to love it."
Zian hesitated but nodded, following Yu as he led the way.
---
Yu took Zian to a secluded spot, far from the bustling market. It was a quiet clearing surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting soft golden patterns on the ground. The air was still, untouched by the noise and chaos of the world outside.
Zian looked around, a mix of curiosity and wonder in his eyes. "Where are we, Yu?"
Yu leaned against a tree, his usual playful demeanor softening. "This is my secret spot. I used to come here when my mother was upset with me. I'd always say I wouldn't go back home, but, of course, I eventually did."
Zian's gaze softened. "Your mother… Where is she now?"
Yu's expression turned wistful. "She doesn't live here anymore. But one day, I'll take you to meet her. I think she'd like you."
Zian nodded, his voice quiet. "Alright."
Yu quickly shifted the mood, gesturing to the surroundings. "Look, Zian. Isn't this place beautiful?"
Zian's eyes sparkled as he took in the serene beauty of the clearing. "It is. It's incredible. But why is there no one else here?"
Yu smirked. "Because I found it, and I haven't told anyone else about it. Well, except for you now."
Zian blinked, surprised. "So… I'm the first person you've shared this place with?"
Yu nodded, his expression unusually serious. "Yes."
"But why me?" Zian asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Yu paused, then smiled. "Because I like you, Zian."
Zian's eyes widened, his heart racing at Yu's unexpected words. "I… I think we should head back. It's getting late," he stammered, his face flushing.
Yu chuckled, stepping closer. "Alright, but before we go, answer me this—do you like me too? I mean, of course, you do. Who wouldn't? Look at me, I'm so handsome!"
Zian's face turned even redder. "Yu! Your father must be looking for us. Let's go!"
Yu couldn't stop laughing as Zian tried to avoid his gaze, his face lowered in embarrassment.
---
As they made their way back, the path seemed unfamiliar. The trees grew denser, and the air turned cooler. Zian frowned. "This isn't the way we came, is it?"
Yu scratched the back of his head, grinning sheepishly. "Uh, maybe not. But don't worry. I'll find the way out. You're safe with me, remember?"
Zian sighed, glancing at the darkening sky. "Let's hurry. It'll be night soon."
Yu nodded confidently, though he couldn't help feeling a small twinge of uncertainty. "Don't be scared, Zian. We'll get out of here. I promise."