A familiar voice answered quietly, "No. I'm sorry, Xia Yuqing."
She turned her head slightly. It was Rong Xi. Ever since the Emperor had threatened her with Yan Rouxi's life, Xia Yuqing knew Yan Meilin had escaped.
She'd been working with Rong Xi in secret ever since —her last, desperate attempt to stop him. But it seemed she had failed.
Her last hope was gone.
Xia Yuqing lowered her gaze, setting the glass back on the counter. Her reflection in the pale gold drink looked as hollow as she felt.
"It's over then," she murmured, her voice faint.
Rong Xi frowned, concern flashing in her eyes. "Are you okay?"
"No," Xia Yuqing replied simply. There was no point in pretending. Not tonight. She stood up, straightening her clutch, preparing to leave.
"Where are you going?" Rong Xi asked quickly.
"To get some fresh air," Xia Yuqing said, her tone calm but fragile. "I can't see this… I can't see him. It'll kill me."
Her voice broke on the last word.
