Hei Yao looked at Si Lu with a confused expression. "Why do you think we're the dumbest?"
Si Lu smiled softly, explaining, "You see, every time something fun, delicious, or valuable comes along, you always give it to me first. No matter what it is, I'm the first person you think of. Isn't that kind of silly?"
It seemed like they lived solely for her. They always gave her the best of everything while settling for whatever was left for themselves.
Hei Yao shook his head and smiled warmly. "I don't think we're stupid at all. In fact, I think we're pretty smart. Protecting and providing for females is what we males do. Besides, everything I give you is more useful to you than it is to me."
To him, protecting the one he loved was the smartest thing anyone could do.
Si Lu sighed, knowing she wouldn't win this argument. "Fine, I can't argue with you."
Suddenly, she yawned, feeling an unexpected wave of fatigue. "Why am I getting so sleepy all of a sudden? Could it be because of the crystal core I just ate?"
She hadn't felt tired before, but now sleepiness was quickly overtaking her. She glanced at Hei Yao, puzzled.
"You're feeling sleepy because your body is absorbing the energy from the crystal core," Hei Yao explained gently, his eyes filled with affection. "It takes time for the energy to settle. Just rest. I'll be here watching over you."
"Oh, so that's why," Si Lu murmured, her eyelids growing heavy. "I wasn't tired a moment ago, but now... I can't fight it anymore."
And just like that, she fell asleep, nestled comfortably in Hei Yao's arms.
Hei Yao gazed down at her sleeping face, a tender smile playing on his lips. No matter how long he looked at her, he never tired of it. Being able to protect her made him feel complete.
The day turned to night, and the others returned. Outside, by the fire, Bai Di was cooking while Cheng Mo and the others chatted and laughed, making the atmosphere lively.
When Si Lu woke up, she noticed Hei Yao still by her side, but the rest were gathered around the fire. It looked warm and inviting.
"Are you awake?" Hei Yao asked softly, noticing her stirring. "Are you hungry? How are you feeling?"
"I feel great, but I am a little hungry," Si Lu replied just as Bai Di appeared at the entrance of the tree hole, smiling warmly at her.
"Come on out and eat," Bai Di said, his voice full of tenderness. "I made your favorite vegetable and shrimp soup, grilled meat, and broth. We've got plenty. Oh, and there's some good news we want to share with you."
"Good news?" Si Lu's curiosity was piqued.
"I'll tell you during dinner," Bai Di replied with a teasing smile. "Do you want to come outside with us, Hei Yao?" He asked, glancing at him.
Though Hei Yao was still recovering, Bai Di thought it would be better for him to join them by the fire. It felt too lonely for him to stay inside while everyone else was gathered outside.
Hei Yao and Bai Di had a strong bond, forged through shared experiences. They understood each other well, and despite the playful rivalry, there was never any jealousy between them when it came to Si Lu. In fact, Bai Di was grateful to Hei Yao for helping him become close to her.
Hei Yao chuckled. "Sure, I can manage. My injury isn't too bad now."
Si Lu looked concerned. "Are you sure? I don't want you pushing yourself too hard."
"I'll be fine," Hei Yao reassured her, gently ruffling her hair. "I know my limits. As long as I don't move too suddenly, the wound won't reopen."
"Alright then," Si Lu said, relieved.
Just as she was about to stand up, Hei Yao suddenly scooped her up in his arms, carrying her like a princess.
"What are you doing?" Si Lu protested, squirming a little. "You're injured! I can walk on my own!"
Hei Yao grinned, holding her firmly. "Don't move. If you keep struggling, you might really make me tear my wound open."
He said this on purpose, knowing it would make her stop resisting. He just wanted to carry her, to keep her close.
Sure enough, Si Lu stopped struggling. "Fine," she huffed, resting in his arms. "I'm only doing this because I don't want you to get hurt again."
Her concern brought a slight smile to Hei Yao's face, one she didn't notice.
Bai Di, following them, shook his head with a chuckle. Si Lu was still too innocent to realize that Hei Yao was just using an excuse to hold her. Bai Di would have liked to carry her too, but Hei Yao beat him to it.
As they approached the fire, the others looked up, their gazes drawn to Si Lu nestled in Hei Yao's arms.
Si Lu blushed deeply, hiding her face against Hei Yao's chest. Why were they all staring at her like that? It was so embarrassing!
Cheng Mo couldn't help but smile at the shy little female.
Hei Yao gently set Si Lu down by the fire, and she immediately sat close to the warmth, her head lowered in embarrassment, focusing on the flames instead of the people around her.
"Don't be shy," Bai Di said with a chuckle as he handed her a bowl of soup. "Here, your favorite."
Si Lu accepted the bowl, still keeping her eyes on the fire. "Thanks."
Once everyone was settled, Bai Di finally revealed the good news.
"We're almost done with the bamboo house!" he announced with a wide smile. "Just a few finishing touches, and it'll be ready. Soon, we'll be able to travel without worrying about the rain or finding shelter."
Si Lu's eyes lit up. "Really? That's amazing!"
"Yep," Bai Di confirmed. "In a couple of days, we'll be on our way. The bamboo house will make everything easier."
Si Lu felt a wave of relief wash over her. Traveling had been difficult, especially with the unpredictable weather. But with the bamboo house, they could continue their journey without worry.
"That's wonderful news!" she said, feeling a renewed sense of excitement for the adventures ahead.
Hei Yao and Bai Di exchanged a glance, both feeling content. Together, they were building a life full of joy, strength, and love.