"Chuxia..."
Shi Che called Ling Chuxia's name softly, his voice tender and light. His hand reached out tentatively and slowly grasped Ling Chuxia's wrist. He could feel Ling Chuxia's hand tremble slightly with force, yet she restrained herself from shaking him off.
His heart steadied a bit, his hand gradually tightened, and then he slowly pulled Ling Chuxia into his embrace. Ling Chuxia leaned against his chest, her body stiff. His hand rested on her back, gently stroking it bit by bit.
Ling Chuxia's face pressed against Shi Che's chest, her tears soaking through his clothes. Her voice was low, filled with endless despair, "But Shi Che... I've been tainted... tainted..."
Ling Chuxia spoke hoarsely, each word tearing at her heart, ripping it apart piece by piece.
"No, you're not tainted!"
Shi Che's hands suddenly cupped Ling Chuxia's face, his thin lips pressing straight down towards her.
