It was April, and indoors, sleeping still necessitated a blanket to cover oneself. Xiaomai's right wrist rested underneath the blanket, and the intense glow that burst from the water droplet mark was concealed by the blanket. It went unnoticed by anyone and did not elicit any disturbance.
Qiao Xiaomai slept until dusk fell upon the western hills, only to be awakened when Tong Tiehu returned to the Palace.
Having slept close to three hours, Qiao Xiaomai was woozy when Tong Tiehu awoke her.
Seeing her condition, Tong Tiehu stretched out his long arm to help her up, "Hand me a towel; I'll wipe your face for you."
Leaning on his shoulder, after hearing his words, Xiaomai's consciousness dipped into her space, intending to retrieve a wet towel.
The next instant, she sat up abruptly.
Her sudden movement nearly caused her head to collide with Tong Tiehu's chin, but he swiftly dodged and sat down across from her, asking in confusion, "What's wrong?"
