Liang Wei stood under a canopy, watching the rain fall. His hands were wrapped around a lukewarm cup of tea, the warmth of which barely touched the chill in his heart. He was lost in thought, the world around him a blur, until Jiang Hao casually stepped into the same space, shaking water droplets off his leather jacket. "Rain always feels heavier in Taipei, doesn’t it? Like it’s trying to wash something away." "Or drown it," came the weary reply from Liang Wei, his eyes still fixed on the rain-slicked streets. Jiang Hao raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the cryptic response. He leaned casually against the post, his sharp eyes studying Liang Wei's profile as if trying to unravel a puzzle. "Interesting take. Do you always see the glass half empty, or is tonight special?" Liang Wei finally met his gaze, his eyes shadowed with fatigue. "I’m not in the mood for conversation." "Good thing I’m not easily discouraged," Jiang Hao said with a grin. Liang Wei sighed and turned away, the weight of his loneliness pressing heavily on his shoulders. Before he could leave, a commotion erupted nearby. Two men argued over a gambling debt, their voices rising sharply. The situation quickly turned hostile, tension crackling in the air. Jiang Hao stepped forward, his demeanor shifting from playful to commanding, the air around him thick with authority. "Settle this elsewhere. You’re ruining the night market’s charm." The men faltered, clearly recognizing Jiang Hao and muttered apologies before dispersing. Liang Wei watched silently, a flicker of something akin to admiration breaking through his wariness. "You seem used to being obeyed." Jiang Hao smirked, his confidence unwavering. "Let’s just say I’m persuasive." Jiang Hao noticed Liang Wei's hesitation and decided to press further, his tone softening. "Let me guess. Stuck in a rut? Life’s losing its flavor?" Liang Wei laughed bitterly, his voice laced with pain. "You could say that." Jiang Hao's gaze was piercing, yet warm. "Then let me make you an offer. Come with me." Liang Wei narrowed his eyes, a flicker of curiosity breaking through his walls. "Why would I do that?" Jiang Hao leaned in slightly, his voice low and teasing, yet carrying an undeniable weight. "Because sometimes, what you need isn’t a way out. It’s a way in."