"The moment the fire started, I realized I had crossed a line."
A quiet sigh escaped her lips.
"Not because I was caught."
"But because I frightened myself."
The room became silent again.
Xi Wenzhe studied her carefully.
For years, Li Mei had always been calm.
That was one of the reasons he had trusted her.
Which was precisely why her actions had shocked him.
Finally, he spoke.
"I am disappointed in you."
Li Mei smiled faintly.
A sad smile.
"I know."
"You didn’t have to like Su Yueqing."
Xi Wenzhe’s voice remained steady.
"I never expected that."
Li Mei nodded.
"Nor did I expect to."
"However, disliking someone should never have led to this."
Li Mei lowered her eyes.
"You’re right."
After a long pause, Xi Wenzhe rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"I had everything planned."
Xi Wenzhe looked toward the papers on his desk.
"Marrying Su Yueqing was something I did because it was expected of me."
His expression became complicated.
"It was a duty."
Li Mei remained quiet.
Then Xi Wenzhe continued.
"I intended to fulfill my obligations first."
His gaze shifted toward her.
"And when the time was right, I intended to bring you into the household."
Li Mei’s fingers tightened slightly.
Not from excitement.
But because she suddenly understood where this conversation was heading.
Xi Wenzhe let out a quiet breath.
"Tell me, Li Mei."
His voice was calm.
"How am I supposed to convince my mother now?"
"How am I supposed to convince Grandmother?"
"How am I supposed to defend someone who nearly caused another person’s death?"
Li Mei lowered her head.
Because she had no answer.
And as emotionally intelligent as she was, she knew this was not the moment to ask for reassurance or forgiveness.
So instead she said quietly,
"You shouldn’t."
Xi Wenzhe froze.
Li Mei met his eyes.
"You shouldn’t defend me."