"And I remember," said an old housekeeper who had worked for the family years ago, now retired and invited out of courtesy. "You cried yourself to sleep every night."
More and more people began to murmur in agreement.
"I always thought something was off with how Sheng Xin treated you."
"You were such a quiet girl. Now I understand why."
"She was the only one not smiling in the family photos."
Mr. Sheng's face turned pale. Mrs. Sheng sat down slowly, as if all the strength had drained from her legs.
The room was silent, thick with tension, until her eldest brother's voice rang out loud and clear.
"Sheng Yin," he said, standing up and adjusting his suit.
His voice was cold, filled with pride.
"Do you really mean it? You really want to cut all ties with the Sheng family?"
Sheng Yin turned to him, her eyes calm but sharp like glass.
"Didn't you hear what I said just now?" she replied. "Yes. I meant every single word."
Her brother frowned. "Fine," he said. "Then pay us back."
