Zuko couldn't tell her that he couldn't control himself. He gently held her small hand, caressing the back of it with his thumb, and looked into her eyes with a tender smile.
"I don't want to trouble you." He made up an excuse. "When we came back, we ran into Gia. She might spread rumors about us staying together."
Lina's expression changed, and she nodded solemnly. What he said made sense. Gia's attitude toward her had already shifted, and Lina had to be cautious. If it became known that they were sharing a room without proper registration, it could lead to a big commotion and even involve the police, causing trouble.
However...
Lina looked at him, her worry shifting to his well-being. She was more concerned about him not having a place to stay.
Zuko understood her thoughts. He gently ruffled her hair and whispered, "Don't worry. I was just joking about sleeping on the streets. I have enough money to stay at a hotel."
Lina voiced her concern. "But those small hotels will surely be worse than here."
"I can manage no matter how bad they are," Zuko reassured her, hugging her closely. "As long as I can be with you."
Lina's heart warmed, and she nestled against him. "Sometimes, I can't believe how lucky I am to have met you in this lifetime..."
"I'm the lucky one." Zuko's voice was tender. "I must have saved up all my good luck from my past life to be able to meet you in this one."
Lina smiled up at him.
"Alright, let's eat quickly." He patted her back. "After eating, you should rest early. You have classes tomorrow, and I'll go out to find a place to stay and move my things."
Once he moved out, he wouldn't have to endure the torment of seeing her but not being able to fully embrace her every day...
Zuko smiled and planned to visit his grandparents first the next day.
As for where to stay, he could go to the general's residence. It had been a while since he had seen his award-winning actor of an uncle.
If possible, he would also pay a visit to the palace and meet the king. After all, he held an important place in his father's life...
However, the next morning, before Zuko had a chance to leave, a series of urgent knocks on the door echoed through the room.
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