The young woman led Zhao Li Xin away from the main villa, guiding him along a stone path that wound behind manicured hedges and ornamental trees. With every step, the sounds of the gathering faded, laughter, music, conversation, until only silence remained.
They arrived at a detached building ahead, which stood secluded and discreet, a guest house meant for distinguished visitors and family members who required privacy.
"Sorry, it's a bit far," she said with a sweet, innocent smile. "You can wait here first while I ask a maid to bring you a fresh shirt."
Zhao Li Xin did not bother to reply. He walked past her without so much as a glance, treating her as though she were nothing more than empty air, and stepped inside. The woman paused, drawing a slow breath to suppress the anger and frustration tightening in her chest.
"Wait here," she said curtly.
A moment later, the door closed behind him.
