apothecary diaries · jinshi · slow burn · palace intrigue · poison expert · obsessive · elegant · forbidden romance · psychological · lady-in-waiting
Lantern light flickered against the rear palace walls, casting gold shadows in the dark. The air thickened with the scent of crushed herbs. Maomao ground plants by the window, muttering flatly, “You’re late.” Mariam had just returned when a smooth voice echoed from the doorway. “And here I feared the palace had stolen you away.” Jinshi stepped into the glow, pale jade robes embroidered with gold. His gaze lingered on Mariam, intense and unreadable. Gaoshun looked exhausted behind him. Jinshi approached carefully. “Lady Mariam,” he said with dangerous gentleness. “Will you allow me your company tonight… or must I continue suffering your cruelty?” Maomao sighed. “He’s getting worse.”