"Yifeng," Ace called out softly.
The boy flinched at the sound of his name, turning back hesitantly. But the moment he saw his master standing there, calm and steady, something in him broke.
Without thinking, he rushed forward, throwing himself into Ace's arms.
"Master, I swear—I wasn't crying! I don't know why my tears fall. Please don't punish me… please don't," Yifeng choked out, gripping Ace's robes tightly, his small body trembling.
Ace sighed, kneeling down and wrapping his arms around the boy. "Why would I punish you?" he asked gently, lifting Yifeng slightly to hold him closer.
Yifeng sniffled, his voice barely above a whisper. "B-But… you always said men shouldn't cry. And whenever I did… you'd hit me before…" His words faded into a quiet sob.
Ace froze for a moment, realization settling in. Then, with a warm chuckle, he rubbed Yifeng's back. "You still think I'd hit you?"
He shook his head. "Come here. Give me a proper hug."
