( It had been shocking the first time, it is horrifying now. He finds himself frowning at the back of Zhou Zishu's head, heart hammering away in his chest as he wills the body before him to get better. How could he have missed this? How could he not have known? )

I don't care what pressure you think I might be under, you tell me these things.

( The bite is back in his words, anger to cover up the fear. )

You're my -. You're my person too, Ah-Xu.

( He has been such a fool, he has wasted so much time. )

If I want to take care of you I'll do it.