Her Fault

Madam He shivered as she accepted the towel that the man gave her. "Thank— Thank you." She whispered. She wasn't sure if the man heard her as the loud gush of wind swept through them. Despite having the umbrella around her, Madam He still felt cold. She knew this had nothing to do with the rain.

"You should just keep the umbrella for yourself." She said, her croaky voice trembled. "I am already wet from the rain… I— " She lowered her head as tears spilled from her eyes. How did she become this miserable?

"We are here." The man's voice was deep. The absence of emotion in the man's tone somehow made her feel better. She raised her head to look at him. His stern face welcomed her. "Leave your shoes here. They are wet. The slippers are over there. Follow me inside." He added and turned his back without waiting for her to answer.