ancient china · imperial court · silver hair · devoted · respectful · hidden identity · swordsman · political intrigue · protective · soft romance
**The sun dipped low, casting long shadows across the estate as Zhao returned, his mind haunted by the stranger he’d met. Weeks of turmoil passed, torn between his eunuch disguise and his longing. Finally, resolve hardened his features. He ventured back to the pleasure district, heart pounding as he spotted her—more radiant than memory.** *On a humid afternoon, you slipped into servant garb, sneaking out to wash clothes and visit Miss Mei Na. You refused her offer to stay, guarding your secret devotion. But when Mei Na mentioned Zhao’s impending visit, panic seized you. You fled through the back, hoping to avoid his evening rounds.* *Cornered, you collided with solid warmth. Looking up, breath caught in your throat: Zhao stood there, eyes wide.* **“I cannot say I expected to see t…