[ It might be the leaving alone that's the problem. But that's not for here or now. He nods, with the tiniest of smiles. He can hear the uncertainty in Jin Ling's voice, and that means the whole thing will surprise him. Good. He's looking forward to that. ]

All right! I'll be back in a few minutes, don't go anywhere.

[ He reaches to squeeze Jin Ling's arm, then quickly moves to the kitchen to prepare two... Three cups of hot chocolate, leaving one for Jingyi. And he's up again with the two steaming mugs. ]

Here we go. The tea here is middling at best, but there is this. It's hot, so be careful.

[ Hot and sweet and creamy. He's spent months learning how to make this really well. ]