Zhi Yan's expression softened as she stroked the pup's fur. "Oh, that's a wonderful name… Xuan Hei…" she murmured, lips curving into a smile. The little wolf wagged its tail once, almost as if pleased with her approval.
Lin Fang watched quietly, then drew in a slow breath. His voice broke the comfortable silence. "Yan'er… actually, I want to talk to you about something. It's important."
The words made Li Liu freeze.
Her heart skipped for a moment, her hand tightening around the armrest. Panic crawled up her spine as her thoughts raced. No… not here. He can't possibly—
In a rush, she leaned forward and grabbed Zhi Yan's arm. "You two must be exhausted after today," Li Liu said quickly, forcing a casual smile. "Why not let her go freshen up first? We can talk during dinner."
Zhi Yan blinked at the sudden interruption. Her eyes lowered to Li Liu's hand gripping her. For a brief moment, silence hung in the air.
