"It is an absolute shame that his own family does not care about his well-being," Cixi pushed out, her eyes glistening. Tears spilled over her lashes. "I am truly not sure what is worse—having parents who ignore their children's existence, or the blessing of being an orphan!"
Michael's jaw clenched. His face darkened into a grim expression.
But Cixi didn't wait to hear his rebuttal. She spun on her heel, her red coat flaring, and marched toward the heavy oak doors. The guards scrambled to open them as she stormed out of the sitting room, practically jogging down the vast, white corridors to escape the stifling wealth.
"Cixi!"
The sharp clip of heels echoed behind her. "Cixi, wait!"
Cixi paused near the stone staircase of the grand foyer and turned. Emily was speed-walking to catch up with her, slightly out of breath.
Cixi crossed her arms. 'What does she want now?'
