beginning to override the hurt. If that's how he wants to play it.
She shoved the phone into her pocket and stood abruptly, pacing to the window. The gardens stretched out below, meticulously maintained, beautiful and empty.
Just like how she felt right now.
A soft knock interrupted her spiraling thoughts.
"Come in," she called, not turning from the window.
It was Jin Chengyu, carrying a tea tray with obvious care.
"I thought you might like some tea," he said gently, setting it down on the side table. "You've been in here alone for quite a while."
"I'm fine, Dad," Zhou Yuxi said, but her voice lacked conviction.
Jin Chengyu moved to stand beside her at the window, close but not touching, giving her space while making his presence known.
"You called him," he observed quietly. It wasn't a question.
"How did you—"
"You had that look," Jin Chengyu said with a small, sad smile. "Hope, followed by disappointment. He didn't answer?"
