After playing with the kitten in the room for a while longer, Li Zhi carefully tucked the dark blue velvet box containing the pearl hair clip into her pocket.
"I really should get going. It's almost 10:20," Li Zhi said, standing up. The gentle smile hadn't completely faded from her face.
Shen Yuan nodded. Although his eyes betrayed a hint of reluctance, he knew he couldn't ask her to stay. "Okay, I'll see you to the door."
The two walked to the entryway. Li Zhi changed her shoes and checked for the box in her pocket one more time.
She didn't say anything else. She simply waved at Shen Yuan, whispered, "Good night," and went to her apartment across the hall.
Back in her bedroom, Li Zhi took out the box with the hair clip. Her fingers gently caressed its smooth surface, and the corners of her mouth curled up into a subtle, unconscious smile.
'This guy... he's surprisingly thoughtful.'
Li Zhi placed the box on her desk. A moment later, she opened her mouth. "Next time..."
