The sleeping pills took effect quickly, and Ruan Qi's emotions gradually calmed down.
But she still slept restlessly, her small hands twitching as if trying to grasp a life-saving straw.
Xi Jiu hurriedly extended his hand.
The helpless little girl felt the warmth and immediately clutched his hand tightly.
"Brother Iceberg..." she murmured with a sobbing voice.
Xi Jiu felt a pang in his heart.
He held her hand tightly and said gently, "I'm here."
In her sleep, the corner of the little girl's eye shed a string of heart-wrenching tears.
She sobbed a few times and then uttered another helpless murmur, "Jiujiu... save me..."
The simple four words nearly took away Xi Jiu's ability to breathe.
He closed his eyes, using all his strength to suppress the sadness in his heart.
"Baby, don't be afraid," the man's voice was hoarse and frightening, yet his tone remained gentle as water, "I'm here, I've always been here."
...
The night was gradually deepening.
