That morning, the palace grounds were painted in soft sunlight. The air was cool, carrying the faint scent of chrysanthemum flowers blooming along the veranda. Yuze sat near the window, one hand resting on the carved wooden chair, breathing quietly as if savoring the calm.
His legs had strengthened little by little — he could stand now, and even take a few brave steps, though always with a hint of trembling. Every time he tried, she was there — steady hands, warm presence, patient smile. She lifted him when he fell, encouraged him when he doubted.
He had begun to believe that maybe, just maybe… the body he once thought ruined could still move forward — toward her.
Today, lunch was delivered earlier than usual. Dishes arranged beautifully, covered in a sweet aroma unfamiliar to him. He didn’t know a high-level aphrodisiac had been added — a scheme intended not for him, but for the woman who had captured a prince’s obsession.
Hungry and alone, Yuze ate.
At first, nothing felt strange.
But soon, his breath deepened — heat rushing beneath his skin. His heart raced wildly. His legs weakened, and he collapsed onto the polished floor, struggling against a fire he did not understand.
Meanwhile, she was in the Empress Dowager’s quarters, unaware of the poison meant to ruin her dignity.
When she returned, she found Yuze trembling on the floor — cheeks flushed, eyes glassy, his body radiating heat like he was burning alive.
“Yuze?” she gasped, rushing to him.
She helped him up, her hand sliding behind his back to steady his balance. But the moment their bodies touched—
His arm wrapped around her waist.
His breath ghosted against her neck.
He pushed her gently down with him, the two of them landing on the floor together — his weight shaky but intent above her. His eyes, usually calm and soft, now glimmered with something raw and desperate.
Her pulse thundered. His hand hovered near her cheek — hesitating — trembling — wanting.
He lowered his face closer… lips brushing hers in a kiss that was clumsy, fevered, unplanned.
She froze — not in fear, but in shock. This wasn’t the gentle Yuze she knew. Something was wrong.
“Yuze…?” she whispered, voice unsteady.
His answer came in a hoarse, pleading breath — eyes locked intensely onto hers.
“Please… don’t let go.”