The next morning.
Dawn light filtered through the half-open window lattice, casting dappled patterns across the bedroom floor.
A gentle breeze stirred the gauze curtains, making them drift like flowing water.
Dai Chengfeng slowly opened his eyes. Before his mind fully cleared, he already felt the warm, soft weight in his arms.
Liu Erlong lay beside him, her head pillowed on his arm, her whole body curled into his embrace, sleeping peacefully.
Morning light traced the gentle curve of her face; long lashes cast faint shadows beneath her eyes, fluttering slightly with each breath.
Her black hair spilled across the pillow—strands clinging to her fair cheeks, glowing softly in the golden light.
Dai Chengfeng didn't move. He simply watched her.
In this moment, Liu Erlong had shed all her usual strength and sharpness. Like a cat sheathing its claws, she was lazy, gentle, utterly at ease.
She slept deeply, breathing slow and even, the corners of her lips lifted in a faint smile—as if caught in a sweet dream.
The collar of her sleep robe had slipped open in slumber, revealing a delicate collarbone and the subtle swell of her curves. The dawn light kissed her skin with a pale golden halo—so beautiful it stole his breath.
A deep, wordless contentment swelled in Dai Chengfeng's chest.
He raised his free hand and brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers—so gently, as if afraid to shatter a dream.
In her sleep, Liu Erlong instinctively nuzzled into his touch, murmuring something unintelligible before burrowing deeper into his chest.
This woman—awake, she was a formidable force: Headmistress of Lan Ba Academy, revered and feared by many.
But here, in his arms, she was simply a woman who'd let down every guard—seeking warmth, showing tender vulnerability in her sleep.
"Truly…"
Dai Chengfeng sighed soundlessly, eyes brimming with tenderness.
He thought back to yesterday—the way she'd lounged in the medicinal bath, the trust in her eyes as she fell asleep against him, the quiet dependence in her half-awake glances.
All of it softened some hidden part of him.
Outside, birdsong grew clearer; the light brightened.
He knew he should rise—but he clung to this quiet intimacy, reluctant to break the peace.
Just then, Liu Erlong's lashes fluttered. She slowly opened her eyes.
At first, she blinked in confusion, still half-asleep. But when she recognized Dai Chengfeng's face—and realized she was nestled tightly in his arms—a blush bloomed across her cheeks.
"Good morning," Dai Chengfeng murmured, voice rough with sleep yet tender.
"Morning…" Liu Erlong replied, trying to sit up—but found herself still wrapped in his embrace.
Not only did he not loosen his hold—he pulled her closer, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.
"Stay a while longer," he whispered, nose brushing her hair. "It's still early."
His affection made her ears burn—but she didn't pull away.
She relaxed back into his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat, feeling the warmth of his skin, and a deep calm settled over her.
Morning air drifted through the window, carrying the crisp scent of dew-kissed grass. The gauze curtains swayed, casting shifting patterns of light over them both.
For a long while, neither spoke—simply savoring this rare tranquility.
"Did you sleep well last night?" Dai Chengfeng finally asked softly.
"Mm."
Liu Erlong nodded, her voice thick with drowsiness. "Haven't slept this deeply in a long time."
"The bath's calming effect worked well," he said, fingers idly twining a strand of her hair. "We can do it again sometime."
She hummed in agreement—then suddenly remembered something. She looked up at him. "You held me like this all night? Isn't your arm numb?"
Dai Chengfeng smiled. "A little. But it's worth it."
He said it plainly, eyes full of quiet warmth.
Liu Erlong met his gaze—and her heart skipped. She quickly looked away, though she couldn't hide the upward curve of her lips.
They lingered in each other's arms a while longer, until the sunlight outside grew too bright. Reluctantly, Dai Chengfeng released her.
"Time to get up."
He kissed her lips lightly. "You have duties at the academy today, right?"
"A meeting this morning."
Liu Erlong sat up, rubbing her eyes. Her long hair tumbled over her shoulders like a waterfall.
Dai Chengfeng rose too, picking up the jade comb from the bedside to brush her hair.
His movements were gentle, practiced—working meticulously from roots to ends.
Watching his focused expression in the bronze mirror, Liu Erlong felt a warm current in her chest. She asked suddenly, "Do you have plans today?"
"I'll go to the Spirit Hall later," he replied, still combing. "I've got some matters to attend to."
Liu Erlong nodded, not pressing further.
She knew his position was complex—Fourth Prince of Star Luo, yet deeply entwined with the Spirit Hall. He carried burdens she didn't fully understand.
After washing up, they dressed.
Liu Erlong wore simple training attire today, her hair tied high in a neat ponytail—once again the poised, efficient Headmistress.
Dai Chengfeng donned dark everyday robes that accentuated his tall, commanding presence.
"Let's have breakfast," he said, taking her hand naturally. "I'll walk with you."
Liu Erlong didn't pull away. Hand in hand, they left the bedroom and headed toward the small kitchen in her courtyard.
This residence belonged to her at Lan Ba Academy—modest in size, yet tastefully arranged with quiet warmth.
Though rarely used, the kitchen was fully equipped. Liu Erlong usually ate at the academy canteen; when she cooked, it was only simple fare.
But with Dai Chengfeng present, the space suddenly felt alive with domestic warmth.
"What would you like?"
Dai Chengfeng released her hand and walked to the stove, rolling up his sleeves with ease.
Liu Erlong leaned against the doorway, watching him. "You can cook?"
"A little."
He glanced back with a smile. "When you're alone out in the world, you learn to take care of yourself."
He said it casually—but Liu Erlong could imagine the hardship behind those words.
She stepped forward. "Let me help."
"No need. Just sit and wait."
Dai Chengfeng guided her to the small table, pressing her shoulders gently into a chair. "Today, you'll taste my cooking."
Before she could protest, he turned to the stove.
From behind, she watched him light the fire, rinse rice, chop vegetables—movements smooth and confident. Clearly, this wasn't his first time in a kitchen.
Morning light streamed through the window, gilding his silhouette.
His tall frame moved purposefully before the stove—somehow radiating an unexpected, heartwarming domesticity.
Liu Erlong rested her chin in her hands, lost in the sight.
"What are you staring at so intently?" Dai Chengfeng suddenly turned—and caught her gaze.
Liu Erlong startled, quickly looking away. "Nothing. Just… didn't expect you to actually know how to cook."
Dai Chengfeng chuckled softly and returned to his work.
Soon, the kitchen filled with savory aromas. He served congee, a few small side dishes, and golden egg pancakes—simple, yet perfectly balanced in color, scent, and flavor.
"It's ready."
He placed the dishes on the table and sat across from her.
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