The conversation with Lee Jiyeon, thankfully, ended without further incident.

Although I’d made a verbal misstep halfway through that had sent the atmosphere plummeting, I managed to recover and bring the discussion to a safe conclusion.

In the end, the talk ended on a positive note.

The main topic—the mentor issue—was resolved without problems, as we had mutually chosen each other.

Most importantly...

“Since you helped me so much back in China, I’ll make sure to repay you. If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.”

‘Oh.’

The words “come to me if you need help” weren’t something to …