Xie Xiaojing bit her lip, her fingers nervously tracing patterns over her lap that weren't there.
Throughout, Jiang Chen's gaze was tender and gentle, a stark contrast to his usual stern demeanor.
Under his gaze, she felt herself slowly being drawn into a trance, her defenses starting to fall away.
Gathering her courage, Xie Xiaojing spoke her deepest feelings, "I care for you, Jiang Chen. More than I should, more than I ever imagined."
Jiang Chen's eyes reflected the sincerity of her words, his initial amusement replaced by a soft expression.
"Xiaojing," he replied, his voice full of emotion, "My heart echoes yours, responding to its call."
However, their mutual understanding was briefly overshadowed by a wave of uncertainty.
"What about Ji Ruxue? The swirling rumors..." Xie Xiaojing's voice faltered slightly as she voiced her concerns.
Jiang Chen saw her emerging joy begin to fade.
