Huo Shaoheng pressed gently against Gu Nianzhi's shoulders, carefully maintaining some distance between them.
In the dimness of the room, she continued to struggle weakly, unaware of her surroundings. He felt a sudden, sharp tension grip his chest.
Never before had he felt such a loss of control. It was unacceptable. Weakness was something he couldn't afford.
He tilted his head upward, breathing deeply to calm his rapidly accelerating heartbeat.
Slowly, his gaze drifted back to her. Even in the darkness, he could see her clearly. Her full lips opened and closed softly, like a delicate, irresistible lure, drawing him closer.
Everything tempting was inevitably sweet and dangerous.
His hand reached out unconsciously, gently cupping her soft, flushed cheek, fingers slowly tracing down to her delicate collarbone. His touch was light, almost hesitant, afraid the fragile bone might break beneath his fingertips.
A sense of caution stopped him. Instead, he gently caressed her collarbone, brushing over her skin like a soft breeze.
Realizing she seemed calmer now, he decided it was safe. Carefully, he untied the Hermès scarves from her wrists and ankles. Rising, he went to the bathroom, cleaning himself before returning with a basin of water to gently wash Gu Nianzhi, cooling her feverish skin.
She lay quietly, seemingly returned to her usual obedient self. After carefully cleaning and tidying up, Huo Shaoheng finally lay down beside her, relieved.
But just as he relaxed, Gu Nianzhi stirred slightly, instinctively leaning closer to him, her silk-blindfolded head gently nudging toward his warmth.
Huo Shaoheng remained still, eyes lowered, pretending not to notice, yet curious about her next move.
Feeling Gu Nianzhi softly inching closer, he kept his eyes averted, silently observing her movements.
After a moment, sensing that she'd settled again, he rose quietly, carefully untying the Hermès scarves from her wrists and ankles. He headed into the bathroom, bringing back a basin of cool water to soothe her overheated skin.
He gently wiped her down until she was cool and comfortable, sleeping peacefully again, appearing as gentle and obedient as she had before the drug took effect.
Only then did Huo Shaoheng finally allow himself to relax. He lay down, closing his eyes in relief.
The night's chaos had drained him, but years of rigorous military discipline had prepared him well. Even after the turbulent night, he still felt stable enough to rise quietly and shower, readying himself to face the new day.