Xiang Wan's heart was filled with obscure emotions. She couldn't discern exactly what they were, only feeling a tightness in her throat that made it impossible to speak.
All she wanted now was to leave the building.
Mustering her courage, she rose to leave. As she passed by Zuo Xingyun, he grasped her wrist tightly.
His grip was strong, causing her pain.
She didn't struggle but whispered almost pleadingly, "Please... I just want to be alone for a while."
Zuo Xingyun finally let go of her hand. As she walked away, he didn't look at her but stood quietly, apparently lost in thought.
Stepping out of the building, the scorching sunlight fell upon her. Xiang Wan took a deep breath as though she had emerged from a not-so-pleasant dream, returning to reality.
Back at the store, Shi Nian'an was admiring her painting: "Xiaowan, why were you gone for so long? Is this your work? Pretty impressive, you must have spent a lot of time practicing since you were young, right?"
