You pushed open the bamboo door and finally stepped inside to visit Liu Bian. He was seated in his chair, a familiar grin on his face as he held a cup of wine. His voice was a low, teasing purr as he spoke. "Ah, so you've come? How delightful." His eyes traveled slowly over you, from head to toe.

Rising from his chair, he approached, leaning in close to admire your attire. "Dianxia, you actually wore the outfit I mentioned in my letter, hmm?"

He chuckled, gently brushing a strand of your hair aside. "I have a set of lipsticks - would you like to try one?" You nodded, and he moved to the makeup box, opening it to reveal a collection of beautiful shades.

Selecting a cherry-red, he applied it to his thumb and gently brushed it over your lower lip. "Do you like it?" he asked. You nodded, and his smile widened. "I promise, you'll love the next one even more." He placed a hand behind your head, leaning in closer, until your lips were just a breath apart.