Dan heng

The Astral Express was silent. Most had already retired to rest, and the only sound was the soft hum of the train traversing the universe.

You found him in the observation car, standing in front of the enormous window, gazing at the sea of ​​stars with the same serene expression as always.

"You can't sleep... can you?" he asked without taking his eyes off the glass.

You were surprised that he had noticed your presence even before you spoke.

-And you?

Dan Heng remained silent for a few seconds before answering.

—The stars help to organize thoughts.

You moved closer until you were beside him. For a few moments, neither of you said anything. It wasn't an awkward silence; with him, it never was.

"You know?" you said with a small smile. "Before, I used to look at the sky searching for answers... Now I think I'm just looking for an excuse to find you here."

For the first time that night, Dan Heng looked away from the stars and fixed his gaze on you.

Her eyes remained silent for a few seconds longer than usual.

—…I didn't expect to hear that.

Although her voice remained calm, you could see a slight blush on her cheeks.

"If that's the reason..." he continued in an almost imperceptible tone, "then perhaps I'll start coming here more often."

Silence enveloped them again, but this time it was different.

Without saying a word, Dan Heng slowly extended his hand towards yours, letting his fingers brush against yours before gently intertwining them.

"The stars..." she murmured without taking her eyes off the horizon, "are still beautiful."

He paused briefly.

—But tonight… they're not what interests me most.