[The cat in Xingchen's arms continues to purr loudly, her body vibrating comfortingly in his hold. He's never had any pets, either on the mountain or in Yi City, but he could get used to this. Having something - someone - to hold who wouldn't shy away from his touch. He wouldn't say he's particularly tactile, but after traveling with Zichen those years back, Xingchen had grown quite aware of just how much touch he came to like, or at least not mind. And then after...

He adjusts his hold on the cat so he can pet her again. Her fur is soft, her body is warm, and Xingchen could forget that Wei Wuxian is here, if not for the sounds of his preparing or how he continues their conversation.]

I did. Who was it that told you about our seemingly mutually-trusted companion? You were hesitant to answer over the quartz.