Lu Jinchen and Xia Yuqing lay together in silence,2 wrapped up in the cold hush of night. His arms were around her waist, holding her close. His eyes were fixed on the ceiling above, while her hands and head gently rested against his chest.
Time passed slowly. The world outside seemed to disappear. There was no conversation between them, only the soft sound of breathing and the distant ticking of a clock. Then, after what felt like forever, Lu Jinchen finally whispered, "I hate him."
His voice was low and tired, yet full of emotion. Pain ran beneath every word.
Xia Yuqing didn't respond. She didn't need to. She could feel the heaviness in his heart, the years of sorrow hidden in his short sentence. Right now, he didn't need words of comfort, only silence, and someone willing to listen.
She stayed perfectly still, letting her quiet presence speak for her.
