"Choosing Him... is Choosing Me"

"Honey, no." Rong Xinghe's voice was firm, resolute, even as tears shimmered in her eyes. She shook her head, her expression a mixture of compassion and authority. "I will not watch you break like this. Intentionally or unintentionally, you could never hurt me. What happened that night... it was beyond your control. You have to stop punishing yourself for circumstances you couldn't change."

Her voice softened, trembling slightly as she continued, "Besides, when I realized none of you stayed behind for me, I was relieved more than anything else. My Yuan, your brother... he needed you more than I did. You were exactly where you were supposed to be, and you gave him strength when I couldn't. You don't get to blame yourself for protecting him, for being there for him... for loving him."

Xi Fang sighed deeply, his voice laced with regret. "But, Sister-in-law—"