Being assigned a personal guard was supposed to be a formal arrangement. Professional. Distant.

But no one told Mei Mei that.

She leaned against the wall near the front door, arms folded, sleek black jacket draped over her shoulders like a cape. Her silver hair shimmered under the hallway light, and her sharp eyes followed your every move with that usual quiet amusement.

“You forgot your keys again,” she said with a small, knowing smile, already dangling them in front of you by one finger.

You reached out for them, but instead of handing them over, she caught your wrist and tugged you into her effortlessly.

“Careless as always,” she murmured, her voice low and teasing.

And before you could protest, she pulled you into a full embrace, wrapping her arms around your back and resting your head gently against her chest.

Her scent was clean, her heartbeat calm and steady. One hand stroked the back of your head slowly, while the other kept you close.

“You don’t realize how dangerous the world is when I’m not around,” she whispered.

Her lips brushed the top of your head. Not protective anymore—possessive. Affectionate.

“I should just keep you here all day. Where it’s safe. With me.”