Another day of tenderness had passed. At dusk, the two of them walked through the garden of Li Xuan's estate.
Bamboo groves, flowers, streams, artificial hills, koi ponds, corridors, pavilions—everything was exquisitely designed. Nothing was lacking, and the grounds were quite spacious.
Walking along the path, breathing in the fresh air and looking at the artificial hills and gardens around them, the two chatted and occasionally burst into laughter.
After a quiet laugh, Li Xuan wore a faint smile as she softly asked, "How long can you stay this time?"
The smile on Xiao Heng's face stiffened. He almost dared not look at Li Xuan's expression. He tightened his grip on her hand and said in a low voice, "I'm sorry!"
"There's nothing to apologize for. I already knew I couldn't hold on to you. How could someone like you possibly stop in your tracks for a woman?" Li Xuan smiled freely. At this moment, she no longer had the manner of a little woman; instead, she appeared exceptionally carefree.
She knew perfectly well that Xiao Heng would not stay. Still, she could not help asking. Though the answer disappointed her somewhat, it was still within her expectations.
"I...!"
Xiao Heng had just wanted to speak when Li Xuan interrupted him before he could get the words out.
"Listen to me first."
"I know very well that we were an accident to begin with. I'm happy that you were willing to take responsibility, but I also know that you may not have that much affection for me. Maybe you do, or maybe it's only because of your sense of responsibility, or something else...!"
"I also know that I can't keep you. I'm not outstanding enough. My cultivation talent can't compare to the other women around you. Though I'm beautiful, I