He stared at Sarah for a while, delving into her clear eyes, and then voiced with certainty, "You're not drunk."

Sarah turned her gaze towards him, meeting his eyes with unwavering determination, and stated firmly, "I am drunk."

“No, you're not."

Seeing Aziel's stubborn gaze, Sarah pressed her lips onto his, muting his words.

She didn't desire to hear him voice it.

She felt slightly irritated that he was so adamant on this issue right now.

The gentle kiss brought a tingling sensation, accompanied by the aroma of alcohol, and a touch of bittersweet sweetness.

This unforeseen kiss landed on Aziel's lips and his instinct was to reciprocate it, but he managed to restrain himself.

Aziel froze, staring wide-eyed at the face so close to his.

The person he yearned for day in and day out was right in front of him, yet his heart was besieged with uncertainty and bitterness

He couldn't make sense of Sarah's actions - one moment she wanted to end their relationship, and the next she was pretending to be drunk and flirting with him.

Was she merely toying with him? Was it her intention to make him fall in love but be manipulated at her whim?

Aziel found Sarah's actions and demeanor puzzling, and his usually good-natured patience began to wane.

He subtly furrowed his brow, about to distance himself from Sarah, when he suddenly perceived dampness on his face.

Aziel paused.

The cold tear slid down the corner of his lips, carrying a salty taste.

It was Sarah crying.

Before he could express his grievances, she burst into tears, leaving him no choice but to witness her crying.

Aziel was at a loss as to how to handle a crying Sarah, and somehow even the irritation and long-held grievances in his heart evaporated instantly.

He helplessly pulled away from Sarah, lowered his head to wipe the tears off her face, and softly inquired, “What's the matter? Why are you crying?”