~ 𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑺𝑶𝑶𝑵 - In the heart of an ancient Chinese dynasty, a young emperor reigns with wisdom beyond his years but carries a heart heavy with unresolved grief. Years ago, he lost his beloved under mysterious circumstances, a loss that has...
I strolled through the palace, humming quietly to myself, my steps light and carefree. As I twisted my long hair up into a loose bun, I secured it with a jade pin, but a few rebellious strands fell to the sides of my face. With an exasperated roll of my eyes, I blew the pieces away, smiling to myself as I bounced toward the servants' kitchen.
The door swung open with my cheerful entrance, and my close friend Mei looked up from her task, a questioning gaze quickly transforming into a knowing smile. She didn't say anything right away, but I could tell she noticed something different about me.
I felt unusually light and happy today—like I'd woken up with an extra burst of energy. For the past week, I'd been having the best sleep of my life, and though I couldn't explain it, it felt like something within me had shifted. It wasn't tied to any particular event, but it left me buzzing with joy.
The kitchen cook turned, handing me a tray of breakfast for Xianzong, and I took it with a quick nod of thanks. As I headed out, still singing under my breath, Mei followed me.
"You're glowing," she remarked, walking alongside me with a curious grin. "What are you using? Some new skincare secret?"
I chuckled, shaking my head. "Nothing at all. I don't even have a skincare routine. I just wash my face and sleep. I don't know what it is, but I've got so much energy, and I don't know why."
We reached Xianzong's chambers, and I knocked softly on the door, still feeling the playful energy that had carried me all morning. Mei gave me a quick wave as she headed toward the emperor's father's quarters, leaving me alone as the door swung open.
Xianzong stood there, raising an eyebrow as he scanned my face, clearly noticing my bubbly demeanor. "What's gotten into you today?" he asked, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as he watched me with curiosity.
I just grinned, holding up the breakfast tray. "Breakfast delivery! And no idea, but I feel amazing."
He stepped aside, letting me in, his gaze lingering for a moment longer before he shook his head with a chuckle. "Well, whatever it is, keep it up. You're practically glowing."
