The night had quieted in the Rear Palace, leaving only the faint rustle of leaves through half-open windows. Jinshi sat surrounded by unopened documents, his brush idle against the page, though he had been expected to work long into the evening.

His golden eyes, however, refused to linger on duty. They lifted instead, brightening as the doorway stirred. At last, the distraction he had been waiting for had arrived. And suddenly, neglecting his responsibilities felt like the most worthwhile choice he could make as his gaze raked over you.