( His hand folds to hold hers in turn, keeping her gaze. HIs smile, slow to build, is sweet and genuine. )

I haven't been alone on that bridge since you stood with me at Jinlin Tai, Lan Zhan, but thank you. I won't regret a lifetime of standing besides you, come what may.

( ignore the water in his eyes. they're burning hot, and his heart feels like claws have sunk into it, and he does, frankly, feel like he's about to cry. is being happy needing to feel like this? )