The book discussion was in full swing when Lin Qian suddenly stood up.
"Madam Huo, I hope you don't mind, but can I see you for a second?" Her smile didn't waver as she spoke, her voice smooth and polite.
Yue Ning's eyes lifted. For a brief moment, she hesitated, then forced a small smile. "Of course." She turned to the others. "Ladies, please continue. Miss Lin needs a word with me."
Soft murmurs filled the air as Yue Ning rose from her seat and followed Lin Qian toward the quieter side of the garden. The evening breeze carried a faint floral scent, but the calm felt… off.
"Miss Lin," Yue Ning asked, keeping her tone even, "is something wrong?"
Lin Qian shook her head, the crystals in her hair catching the garden lights. "Not at all, Madam Huo. I only needed to use the bathroom. Could you show me the way?"
Her words were courteous, but something about the way she smiled made Yue Ning's skin prickle.
