It was nearing noon when the three of them, Zheng Zha, Zhang Jie, and Zhao Yingkong, emerged from the shade of the tree. Because Zhao Yingkong's jacket was stained with blood, Zheng Zha took his own off and placed it on her, simultaneously looping an arm around her other shoulder. The sight was rather like an elder brother holding his younger sister.

Both Zhang Jie and Zhao Yingkong looked at him with some surprise. Zheng Zha gave a faint smile. "This looks more natural. And later, when we enter the hotel, whatever we talk about, smiling will be best. That way we won't attract attention... Heh, holding you for a bit won't hurt, will it, Yingkong?"

Zhao Yingkong turned her head and said coolly, "It doesn't matter."