Xie Jue was slightly intoxicated, but not so drunk as to be unconscious. When he sensed someone approaching, it was too late to retreat. The alcohol had dulled his senses, and a cool kiss with the faint scent of strong liquor brushed against his lips.
"Impudent!" Furious at being taken advantage of, Xie Jue raised his hand and slapped Lan Ningzhen sharply across the face. The blow made her head tilt to one side, but in the bitter cold that numbed hands and feet, the force was rather feeble. It didn't hurt her at all. She touched her cheek where the slap had landed and smiled serenely at him.
Xie Jue froze. Lan Ningzhen stood beneath the tree, bending slightly and gazing at him. Her fox-like eyes reflected the falling snow and his angry expression. Yet, she showed no shame, embarrassment, or anger from being caught. Instead, it was as though hidden emotions, suppressed to their limit deep within her heart, had finally broken free, blossoming right before him.
