Chapter 40: I Want You to Remember Me for a Lifetime

It was night. Moonlight leaked through the eaves, draping everything in a thin veil.

Shen Qingci walked ahead, holding her child. Her steps seemed sluggish. The courtyard was exceedingly quiet. Only the wind blew incessantly, howling softly by their ears like a whimper. Anyone standing there couldn't help but feel a chill in their heart. Given the current state of the Shen family, even the boldest person in Qingzhou City wouldn't want to stay here for another moment.

Ahead, Shen Qingci suddenly stopped. She stood before the doors of the main hall, staring into the wide-open entrance. Inside was pitch black, impenetrable by the moonlight.

"When I was a little girl... I loved playing here," Shen Qingci said softly. "Grandfather was still alive back then. He always sat in that chair, drinking tea, while I played hopscotch on these bluestone slabs for entire afternoons."

Lin Yan remained silent, standing behind her and listening quietly.