He'd lost enough that he was about to wager his things against pounds. There was no point playing anymore. Yu Xing was a little thirsty, so he took his cup into the kitchen.
The kitchen was rather dim. The light in the corner did little, barely outlining Yu Xing's back in a hazy halo.
He stood by the sink. The clear water in his cup rippled slightly, reflecting his expressionless face. The easy smile he'd worn during the card game had already faded, leaving only a quiet detachment that made him seem somewhat dazed.
Soft footsteps stopped at the kitchen doorway.
Yu Xing didn't turn around. He simply tilted his head back and took a sip of water. The cool liquid slid down his throat, bringing a brief moment of clarity.
He set the cup down. Its base made a crisp tap against the counter.
"What did you follow me in here for?" He turned his head, his gaze falling on Carlos, who was leaning against the doorframe.
Carlos's fingers were absently rubbing the newly acquired sapphire pendant, its color deep and rich. The stone turned between his fingertips, occasionally catching a faint glimmer of light.
It really was something he'd like.
He'd always been drawn to things that were bright and dazzling, things that stood out. He'd been like that before... and he'd be like that in the future, too.
The emerald-green eyes that usually held a hint of amusement showed little emotion now. Carlos looked at Yu Xing, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly.
"Nothing," he said, his voice low and as composed as ever, though there was something more inscrutable in it than usual. "You really haven't changed at all."
The remark came out of nowhere, and Yu Xing paused.
He turned around and leaned lazily