Retired After Winning Merit, Honourable Although Defeated (10)

"What can I do even if I don't want to give up? Just let it be..." Xixi looked dejected.

"Rick also came to see me this morning."

"Really?" Xixi raised her head sharply, somewhat surprised.

"Just like you, he came to see the babies with some carefully-chosen gifts..."

"Oh..."

"Rick also said... that he will be leaving when he completes the handover at work. He's going back to the United States, and he's not coming back anymore."

"He... really said that?" Xixi suddenly felt empty inside.

She felt like something was suddenly pulled away from her, making her feel incredibly insecure.

"Rick has never lied, so... if you've really given up, then once he leaves... you will really have no more chances..."

"But what if I don't want to give up? Should I go see him again and let him abuse me emotionally?" 

Xixi smiled bitterly, tears circling in her eyes.

"Xixi, tell me, do you still love Rick?"