The next morning, Shen Wanyu opened her eyes to the low tent ceiling. Clear birdsong rang by her ears, and she could smell the grass and trees.
"Department Head, you're awake?"
Jiang Linyuan sat on the ground, full of energy, holding a white wildflower still beaded with morning dew.
"The moment you opened your eyes, did you see me first or the flower?"
Jiang Linyuan held up the little white flower.
"I'd rather not open my eyes."
Shen Wanyu sighed and began putting on her jacket.
"Department Head is cute even with her eyes closed."
"Are you a sparrow? You start chirping the second you wake up?"
"I'm a sparrow spirit."
"Shut up. Come here and help me tie my hair."
"Oh, a high ponytail again?"
"Whatever."
Jiang Linyuan ran his fingers through Shen Wanyu's long hair, smooth as satin.
After thinking for a moment, he asked:
"A bun or braids?"
Shen Wanyu stopped speaking, her eyes closed as though she were going back to sleep.
Jiang Linyuan pinched the ends of her black hair and brushed her delicate cheek.
"Are you an elementary schooler? Just tie my hair—don't get handsy."
Shen Wanyu said with her eyes closed.
"I wasn't getting handsy."
"Don't lie."
"I'm not lying."
"Why did you suddenly touch my neck?"
"I was gathering your hair."
"Do it again, and I'll stab you to death."
Standing behind Shen Wanyu, Jiang Linyuan looped her hair around and around, weaving it into a long braid.
"How is it?"
He handed her a small mirror.
Shen Wanyu opened her eyes and glanced at it.
"It'll do."
"Has anyone ever braided your hair before, Department Head?"
"No. Mom only knew how to do ponytails."
"A braid looks better draped to one side, over the shoulder or something, and then with a