Qi Huan gripped Ning Jin's shoulders firmly.
Initially vexed by her incessant crying and tempted to lash out, he found himself softening upon seeing her swollen eyes.
"Xiao Jin, calm down and listen to me."
Ning Jin bit her lip, emitting a feeble whimper, "Brother Qi Huan, you're hurting me."
Qi Huan quickly released her.
At one in the morning, they stood on the lawn of the Chi residence, hiding from the household servants, discreetly discussing their statements.
"If the master asks, you should say you were completely unaware and that it was all my fault, putting all the blame on me," Qi Huan said in a deep tone.
Ning Jin frowned and shook her head. "No! Brother Qi Huan, you only exposed Miss because you were trying to protect me. How can I let you bear the responsibility alone? I can't do that."
She was considering his feelings.
Even though he knew the timing was wrong, Qi Huan felt a warmth in his heart.