Xiao Ze's voice was husky from their kiss, mingling with the soft rustle of the mountain breeze. When it brushed Xun'er's ear, its warmth sent a shiver through her.
Then Xiao Ze's hand tightened slightly around Xun'er's slender waist. He turned and led her toward the bamboo hut, intent on mischief.
Xun'er knew it, but she didn't refuse.
The furnishings inside were simple. A wooden bed covered with a bamboo mat stood by the window, and a plain quilt still carried the warmth of the sun.
Xiao Ze bent down and gently laid Xun'er on the bed. His palm slid slowly up her side, and his fingertips caught the tie of her dress. With a light tug, the ribbon binding her green skirt fell onto the edge of the bed.
His kiss fell upon her again, possessive and impossible to refuse. It moved from the corner of her lips to her chin, then lower, leaving a trail of burning red marks on her neck through the light fabric.
His movements were unmistakably urgent, yet especially tender, as if he were handling a treasure lost and found again. Every touch was delicate and caressing.
He could clearly feel the person in his arms trembling, and see himself reflected in her eyes.
Those eyes were full of trust and shyness, but not the slightest resistance. The sight made the longing in his heart burst its banks, and his caresses grew ever more lingering.
The bamboo leaves still rustled beyond the window, but they could no longer cover the mingled breaths and soft murmurs inside the hut.
As the night deepened, the warmth inside the hut only grew, until the tenderness of their reunion was folded into the silent depths of the night.
When the sky had grown bright, the first rays