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When Zhu Bafu woke from her daze, it was already the third watch of the night. She had been roused by hunger. Yawning, she rubbed her eyes and got up from the bed. How had she ended up in bed? She had applied to Your Majesty for permission to enter and leave the Library, then grabbed a pile of Imperial Diaries from the previous dynasties and flipped through them wildly, hoping to use the past to discuss the present and perhaps find a solution to today's court situation from the emperors of old.

She had been flipping through the books with all her might, while Young Master sat listlessly to one side, watching her toss one book down and grab another. As he watched, he had fallen asleep. Why hadn't Young Master even called her for dinner? She was starving.

She lifted the bedding and was just about to get out of bed when she realized that someone was holding one of her hands in his palm. Sweat had gathered there, leaving a faintly damp, cool sensation that made her fingertips twitch. Tilting her head, she saw Young Master leaning against the edge of the bed with his eyes closed, dozing. He had loosened his Hair Crown, and his long hair hung casually over his shoulders. His lips were slightly parted as he breathed slowly and evenly. One hand held a scroll she had looked through, while the other held hers with intimate familiarity. He looked relaxed and completely at home.

The sweetness shot straight to her head, instantly jolting Zhu Bafu awake. She cautiously raised herself and leaned closer to Young Master, glancing at the tightly shut door. It was rare to have no spies from Your Majesty disturbing them. If she didn't steal a kiss now, when would