That was also good.
He had made too many choices for her already, even if fear had been the rope around his own neck.
Liao Ning faced Tang Li Yue again. "I do not want to go back."
"You will not be taken back."
Her eyes filled, but she blinked the tears away before they fell.
Tang Li Yue appreciated the effort, though she would not have blamed her if she failed.
Liao Wen lowered his head.
"I am sorry."
The words were directed toward his sister.
Everyone in the room heard them, but he did not look around for witnesses. He did not try to make the apology larger through performance.
Liao Ning stared at the cloth in her hands.
Liao Wen continued, his voice rough.
"I followed their orders because I thought compliance would keep you alive. I found other people for them. I told myself they were only being registered. After I understood what was happening, I still kept doing it because I was afraid they would punish you if I stopped."
His breath shook.
