"Sir."
Zhang Zhi knelt before Mr. Ning, who was dressed impeccably, his voice hoarse.
Mr. Ning, with his head full of silver hair and a face covered in wrinkles, stood straight and tall, looking down at the servant with a faint smile, and said, "It's nothing, just that you won't be able to accompany me anymore."
Tears rolled down Zhang Zhi's face as he choked up, "Sir..."
"After I leave, if you are willing, watch over Hong'er for me. If not, then the vast sea and sky await you to explore freely. Go ahead."
Zhang Zhi shook his head, "Sir."
Mr. Ning slightly bent down, reached out, and patted his head, saying, "Take care."
After saying these words, he turned and walked out the door.
Zhang Zhi prostrated on the ground, raising his head only when the creaking sound of the courtyard gate faded, watching that aged back disappear.
...
