They had always been open with each other, never shying away from conflict even when they argued.
But now, she was choosing to avoid him, and her stance was firm.
This meant she knew exactly what had happened and might have even anticipated that he would come looking for her.
"I just want to ask a couple of things. Come on, Shanshan, just open the door."
His tone softened, gentle and coaxing.
He gently tapped on the door twice.
He knew she could hear him, and he knew she was listening.
If she would just talk to him, they could work everything out.
"No… I… Just give me a minute. I really can't right now."
Her reply was halting, punctuated by the sound of her swallowing.
She ended with a faint, sharp intake of breath, as if struggling to keep her emotions in check.
Ling Zhiwei didn't press her further. He took half a step back, his eyes fixed on the closed door.
He waited, observing her reaction.
