```
"How can you—"
The reproach stopped abruptly mid-sentence.
Qipei looked at Qiao Jing nestled in his arms, her face flushed, breathing weak and labored, the extent of her frailty tugging at his heartstrings indescribably.
At this moment, Qiao Jing was in a semi-conscious state, her mouth slightly agape, warm breath spraying out with each exhale.
Qipei carried Qiao Jing into the room, laid her gently on the bed, and reached out to touch her forehead.
So hot!
She must have caught a fever from getting drenched in the rain earlier that day.
After covering Qiao Jing with a blanket, Qipei ran outside with an umbrella to buy medicine.
When Qipei returned, Qiao Jing's temperature had risen even higher.
"Time for medicine." Qipei brought over some water, but Qiao Jing showed no sign of waking up.
"Qiao Jing, take your medicine," Qipei called out again.