Give her courage

As they left the tall modern high-end apartment building, Emma felt increasingly nervous and restless. Her exchanges with Ying since waking up this morning had made Emma temporarily forget about her dire situation, but now that they were out in the world again, her worries and fears were brought to the forefront of her mind once more.

She only took in the surroundings long enough for her to establish which part of the city they were in, before walking purposefully in the right direction, weaving expertly among the pedestrians that packed the streets. As she walked, she went over her plans in her head.

Ying noticed her growing quiet, but didn't comment. Nor did he question her about where she was going. He simply stuck close to her, like a shadow. His movements were as graceful and stealthy in human form as in his wolf form.

His eyes constantly scanned their surroundings, alert for any potential danger. He didn't like her moving about in the open like this, it made him uneasy. There were so many people in this world, or at least in this city. Living so densely, he was surprised they didn't all turn mad.

It also made his task of protecting her more difficult. With so many people milling about, even with his heightened senses, he would have difficulty picking out potential threats from the crowds.

He had other means of detecting dangers of course, but was wary of using them. Despite his awesome power, there was a limit to how much he could use them here in this world. At least, not without attracting unwanted attention.

By the time they reached their destination, Emma felt incredibly tense. She looked up at the large building looming over them. She dreaded going in there, but knew it was the only way forward.

Ying noticed her discomfort, and drew close to her. "It's okay," he whispered, stroking a hand soothingly over her back. "I'm here with you."

Emma turned her head and looked up at him, blinking her large doe eyes. "I know," she murmured back.

She was surprised to find that Ying's presence did actually give her courage. Perhaps it was as simple as her not being alone in this anymore.

She straightened her back, her eyes brimming with determination. "Let's go."

Then she strode purposefully towards the entrance to of the tall office building.

As they entered the wide and airy foyer, Emma turned to Ying.

"Remember the rules," she reminded him.

He raised a hand and ticked them off on his fingers. "Keeping my distance. No talking. No killing."

"And make sure you stick to them."

He grinned at her, and gave her a small bow. "Yes, master," he said in a mock tone.

"That's not funny," she growled. She had already made it quite clear she hated the idea of him being forcibly compelled to follow her commands. "You are free to leave any time you want," she snapped at him.

Perhaps recognising her agitation and not wanting to antagonise her further, Ying remained silent.

Gesturing for Ying to sit down at one of the many comfortable looking lounging chairs spread around the foyer, Emma approached the wide and highly polished reception desk.

The man behind the counter, flashed her a welcoming and professional smile as she drew nearer.

"Good afternoon! Welcome to Blossom Cosmetics. How can I help you?"

Everything about the receptionist's appearance was immaculate and well-groomed, from trendy haircut and his stylish outfit, to his glowing skin and perfectly manicured nails. In short exactly the sort of appearance you would expect from the receptionist of a highly respected beauty and cosmetics company.

In comparison, Emma felt positively scruffy looking, with her tangled hair, functional clothing, and haggard look. Even though the man's expression remained calm and professional, she felt like he was judging her bedraggled appearance.

In fact, the receptionist had noticed her somewhat scruffy appearance, but was much more taken with her wide, innocent eyes, delicate features, and plump lips.

But Emma could of course not read minds, so she cleared her throat, while subconsciously brushing her hair into place.

"I'm here to see someone," she said.

"Certainly," the receptionist replied, flashing her another wide smile. "Who are you here to see?"

"Huang Lihua."

The man's eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"You are here to see CEO Huang?" he asked, not able to hide the amazement in his voice.

Emma nodded.

"Do you have an appointment?" the man asked, already suspecting the answer.

"No," Emma said, her calm voice and facial expression not betraying the nervousness she felt. "But I believe she will still see me. It's urgent."

"I see..." The receptionist tried very hard not look sceptical, and maintain a professional attitude. However, he was very much surprised at her next words.

"Please tell CEO Huang that her sister is here to see her."