Aelorion, Xanvoria;
Imperial Multi-Speciality Hospital, 19:20;
Rong Xiao was sitting on the bench outside the hospital building, dazed, as she fidgeted with the diamond bracelet Xi Yuan had gifted her on her last birthday. 'Don't tell Xinghe. You know how she feels about expensive gifts,' he'd told her with a warm smile, 'Her loss. I heard you are fond of diamonds—and I have exquisite taste in everything. So, next time, what do you say we plan a jewelry heist together?'
As the memory flashed before her eyes, a lump formed in her throat, and the corners of her eyes stung. Why did this have to happen to them? she wondered, sadness gripping her heart like a vise.
"Hi."
