Chapter 18 No Such Preference (8)

When the phone rang, Ling Chuxia had just fallen asleep; her mind was fuzzy, and she thought she was having another nightmare.

Until the familiar ringtone gradually became clear in her ears, Ling Chuxia reflexively sat up from the bed. She didn't even have time to put on her slippers, running downstairs barefoot, grabbing the phone, barely daring to breathe, her voice respectful with a hint of awe, "Madam."

"What happened to your voice?"

Mrs. Shi's voice was as gentle as ever, but this gentleness carried an innate aura of authority that even over the phone felt oppressive.

Only then did Ling Chuxia realize how hoarse her own voice was, as if speaking with gravel in her throat, very unpleasant and harsh.

Ling Chuxia froze for a moment, cleared her throat, and replied softly, "Madam, I'm fine."

Mrs. Shi paused and said nothing further, then continued, "I've sent Old Chen to pick you up. The car should be almost there. Get ready and come over."