"I don't need an explanation," he said softly. "I know it was a far-fetched idea." But he had desperately prayed that she would say yes.
"I should call and find out if your clothes are dry." She reached over towards her cellphone.
"No," he said, holding up his hand. "As I said before, you can forget this conversation ever happened. Let's eat dinner like we usually do. Nothing changes between us, Qian Meng."
She pressed her eyes shut. "Okay," she said finally. "I have to admit, the food in your hotel is good."
"It's passable," he muttered.
"What a snob," she found herself saying. She was surprised she could muster up her previous demeanor.
She stared at the man in front of her and suddenly felt a pang of melancholy. Eating his meal and sipping on water in front of her, she couldn't help but imagine him remaining that way. All alone.
Just like her.
She tucked her head and ate.
