She had clearly been pacing outside the door for who knew how long, her steps somewhat uneasy.
A glimmer of understanding appeared in Yang Xing's eyes.
With a flash, he appeared directly behind Zhu Zhuqing. Raising a hand, he gently patted her shoulder.
"Did you come looking for me?" His light voice rang out in the night.
Zhu Zhuqing was startled by the sudden movement, her shoulders jerking up as a cry nearly burst from her throat.
Yang Xing narrowed his eyes, smiled, and raised an index finger to his lips, gesturing for silence.
"Shh." Yang Xing lowered his voice, his tone carrying a hint of teasing. "You wouldn't want anyone to know that you came to see me alone so late at night, would you?"
The moment those words fell, Zhu Zhuqing froze on the spot.
Her cheeks reddened at a visible speed, even the tips of her ears turning pink. Her mind buzzed, and her usual cold composure vanished without a trace.
"Y-Your Excellency..." Zhu Zhuqing stammered, her gaze darting away in panic. "I... I didn't..."
She was so flustered that she did not know how to explain herself. Her lips pressed tightly together, and she unconsciously bit down so hard that she broke her lower lip, a trace of crimson blood seeping out.
Seeing her like this, Yang Xing smiled faintly and stopped teasing her. He casually waved a hand, turned, and pushed open the door.
"Since you came looking for me, come in."
Zhu Zhuqing stood where she was, watching Yang Xing's back. His attitude was far too ordinary, gentle as though he were receiving any normal visitor, without the scorn or wariness one might show someone who had come late at night with improper intentions.
For some reason, that feeling warmed Zhu Zhuqing's tightly wound