Huoqiu's beastly face grew even redder under the accusation. It opened its mouth, wanting to defend itself by explaining that it hadn't meant it that way, and that actually its relationship with Zhou Ma was quite good. If it harbored any selfishness at all, it was simply out of a desire to win more of its master's affection.
Yet, meeting its master's clear gaze—a gaze so transparent it seemed capable of piercing straight to the heart—the words suddenly failed it entirely!
Sensibly, it lowered its head, burying it deep in an expression that screamed *I know I was wrong*. Shuqi curled her lip. Remembering she had already decided against kicking Huoqiu out, she managed to summon a rare shred of patience to lecture it: "You're always dropping sly hints about Zhou Ma in front of me, but do you know what? Zhou Ma has never once said a single bad word about you behind your back. Even if its attitude toward you in daily life might not be all that warm!"
Chapter 286