He doesn't even realize he's holding his breath until Mingjue accepts the ribbon, tension just slipping out of his body like a wave, leaving him relieved and smiling at Mingjue, fingertips brushing against the ribbon in Mingjue's hand.

"Because it might have been more than you were willing to accept." His voice is low. "I never want to burden you, Mingjue, not even with something like this."