*Chapter 18: The Spark of Rebellion*
Days blurred into one another, filled with Zhao Liang's indifference and Li Xue's silent endurance. But when Mei Yan burst into the penthouse one afternoon, dragging one of Zhao Liang's friends behind her, the atmosphere cracked.
The two sparred instantly, their banter sharp and ridiculous.
"You're insufferable."
"And you're loud."
"At least people hear me."
"Too bad they wish they didn't."
Li Xue laughed — a sound so rare that it startled even her. The warmth of it filled the cold penthouse, if only for a moment.
Zhao Liang entered mid-laughter. His gaze locked on her, sharp and unreadable. The sound silenced her instantly, her smile faltering under the weight of his presence.
Later that night, as she stood on the balcony, Zhao Liang joined her unexpectedly. He leaned against the railing, silent, the city lights casting shadows across his face.
"You laugh so easily for others," he said finally, voice low, almost bitter.
Her chest tightened. "Because they don't make it a crime."
The words slipped out before she could stop them. His eyes narrowed, but instead of anger, there was something else — something heavier.
He turned away before she could read it, retreating once more into silence. But Li Xue knew: for the first time, she had struck a chord in him.