Chapter 2: Fragments of a Shattered Scene

Although Xia Wuyou longed to rid herself of the shattered resentments clinging to her, the thought that this might be another pitiable soul in need of help made it impossible for her to turn away. Even as she suffered herself—feeling as though she were forced to relive those harrowing experiences—a strange force seemed to drag her toward the abyss.

Leaving the company, Xia Wuyou, for the first time, hailed a taxi. She simply lacked the strength to cycle across town and accompany her client to view the property.

The house was a charming little villa. Her husband was preparing to work overseas, so the family decided to move abroad together. For now, they would rent out the house.

When Xia Wuyou arrived, she saw that the client had already been waiting at the door, even before the agreed time. Perhaps the villa was simply too beautiful; the client had circled the exterior several times, unable to resist its allure.

"Hello, Miss Xia."

The client was a warm, approachable middle-aged woman, reportedly a university professor. Only someone with her circumstances could afford such a lovely villa.

"Sorry, I arrived a bit early. Do you think we could go inside now?"

The client asked eagerly.

"Of course. Apologies for being late!"

Xia Wuyou held the house keys, but since the owners had not yet moved out and were still living there, she did not unlock the door directly. Instead, she pressed the doorbell, politely announcing their arrival.

"Welcome! Please come in."

The door was opened by a gentle, beautiful young woman, accompanied by a lively, adorable little girl. With the picturesque villa as backdrop, the scene before Xia Wuyou was nothing short of heartwarming.

"Hello, I am..."

Xia Wuyou began to introduce herself, but suddenly, something in the scene struck a nerve. A wave of sadness washed over her. Especially when she saw the little girl—she felt as though she were seeing her own daughter, filled with boundless affection and unwillingness to part.

"Miss Xia? Miss Xia?"

The beautiful hostess called out, puzzled by Xia Wuyou's sudden daze.

"Oh, excuse me! I was momentarily distracted."

Awakened by the call, Xia Wuyou hurried to conceal her awkwardness.

What was this feeling? Why did she feel so deeply for this little girl? Was the shattered consciousness trying to tell her something?

She pondered silently, unable to fathom what connection there might be between herself and the child.

Following the hostess into the living room, Xia Wuyou was immediately captivated by the dé