The next morning, as Lin Tian prepared to leave the mansion, a voice called out to him. "Wait."
He turned to see Zhao Yue standing there, her expression unreadable. "I've been thinking," she said hesitantly. "You've changed, Lin Tian. And I want to know why."
He studied her for a moment before replying. "I don't owe you an explanation, Yue. Not after everything."
"I know," she admitted, surprising him. "But I also know you're not the same man who came here three years ago. If there's something bigger going on, I want to help."
Lin Tian's gaze softened slightly. He could see the sincerity in her eyes, and while part of him wanted to push her away, another part recognized the value of an ally—even one who had once scorned him.
"Fine," he said. "But if you're coming with me, you need to be ready for the truth. And it won't be easy."
"I'm not afraid," Zhao Yue replied, her voice steady. "Just don't leave me behind."