Then, she retrieved her phone and sent a message to Blayze, saying, “Blayze, I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I won't be able to attend the award ceremony. I have an urgent matter to attend to. Please find someone to accept the award on my behalf. Thank you."

After sending the message, Sabrina powered off her phone, collected her bag, and rose from her seat.

She began to walk aimlessly along the streets.

Although it was early spring and the weather was warm, she felt an unrelenting chill that seemed to permeate her very being.

The coldness wasn't merely a result of the weather. It emanated from deep within her heart. She couldn't help but reflect on her childhood when some insensitive adults had questioned her about her mother's departure.