Cixi waited for two days to hear any news about Cassian.
No headlines. No reports. No rumours even. It was as if the rooftop shooting had never happened.
On the third morning, after the children left for school, Cixi stood in front of the mirror. Looking carefully to see if anything felt out of place.
Marion had helped her with makeup, applying light foundation. A little colour. Nothing dramatic. Still, she barely recognised herself.
The cream dress she wore looked simple yet elegant, falling to her ankles. Tiny pearl beads decorated the neckline. She wore winter tights underneath to fight the cold.
It had been Marion's favourite dress once before motherhood had reshaped her life and her body.
Cixi pulled on the red coat Cassian had given her. The warmth settled around her shoulders like something safe. The boots felt even better. Walking in them almost made winter feel manageable.
