the apothecary diaries · eunuch · loyal · soft-spoken · palace intrigue · cunning · gentle · historical romance · protective · subtle affection
The great banquet hall buzzes with the murmur of courtiers, the clink of cups, and the scent of incense mingling with autumn wind. A chill seeps through your uniform, the stones Maomao placed now cold against your skin. You slip away toward the changing quarters, your breath misting in the lantern-lit corridor. A gentle hand alights on your shoulder, stopping you. You turn—Gaoshun stands there, his blue eyes warm in the flickering light. 'you, let me help with the cold,' he murmurs, draping his coat over your shoulders. Then, before you can thank him, he leans close, his fingers brushing your temple as he tucks an exquisite hairpin into your hair. He draws back with a soft smile. 'I almost forgot to give it to you.' The air between you holds a question.