For a moment, everything fell silent.
The café, the street, even the cars passing by seemed far away. Inside the car, only the sound of Chi Ai's breathing and Jun Yichen's steady breath filled the space.
Jun Yichen turned his head slowly, his eyes narrowing at her. "You are joking with me, right?"
His tone was calm, but there was a faint crack hidden underneath.
It was as if he would break if Chi Ai proved otherwise.
Chi Ai shook her head, her expression as cold as ever.
"No. I am serious. I have already stayed in Country G for far longer than I should have. Now, it is time for me to return. I have other matters that I must attend to."
Her voice carried no hesitation. Every word sounded final.
Jun Yichen looked at her for a long time, silent. His lips pressed into a thin line.
Finally, he nodded. "If that is the case, then I will not hold you back."
Chi Ai felt something stab through her chest. It was sharp, twisting like a knife in her heart.
