[ mingyu blinked, then frowned as well, expression shifting from confusion to embarrassment to guilt. he gave a hard swallow, then put his arms around fox's waist to draw him in, stepping closer as well to keep them beneath the water. ]

...it's not a reflection on you. I've worried all my life, about everything. Even when my parents were around, I still... Always imagined the worst happening, and⁠—

[ he gave a tight smile and hard swallow. ]

I've worried more since the worst did happen, with them. It's nothing you're doing specifically, Huli. It's just... life. It's who I am, what I am in society. And perhaps a little of what you are in society, but I don't think there's anyone you could be that wouldn't still have me worrying.

[ touching fox's cheek, he fixed him with an apologetic look. ]

I know you want to be here. Me worrying is... just an occupational hazard of you meaning something to me.

[ a pause. ]

...meaning everything to me.