Qian Renxue looked at him, her heart steadying.
This man—seemingly reckless—was in truth thoughtful and resolute, bearing his responsibilities with quiet strength.
After dessert, they wandered the city for hours.
They climbed an observation platform overlooking Spirit City, paused at the Spirit Hall Plaza's edge, gazing at the distant Seraphim statue. Qian Renxue's eyes held complex emotions; Dai Chengfeng stayed silent beside her, respecting her thoughts.
By afternoon, the sunlight turned fierce.
They found a riverside teahouse, leaning against railings as boats drifted past, cool breezes carrying away the heat.
Qian Renxue let her guard down, resting her head on Dai Chengfeng's shoulder, savoring this rare peace.
"Tired?"
Dai Chengfeng tilted his head, nose nearly brushing her hairline.
"A little."
She closed her eyes, breathing in his scent—a blend of sun-warmed grass and something sharp, grounding her.
"Then… shall we find somewhere to rest properly tonight?"
His voice dropped, laced with subtle suggestion.
Qian Renxue opened her eyes, meeting his smoldering gaze. Her heartbeat stuttered.
She understood his meaning perfectly. Cheeks warming, she held his stare and gave a soft "Mm."
Dai Chengfeng's eyes crinkled with triumph. He said nothing more, only pulling her closer.
Sunset painted the sky in fiery oranges and reds, bathing Spirit City in ethereal light.
Lanterns glowed as night market clamor replaced daytime bustle.
They dined at a riverside restaurant famed for its exquisite dishes and intimate ambiance.
Mid-meal, Dai Chengfeng casually mentioned, "I heard there's a new place that opened in the South District—'Linghua Pavilion.' It's supposedly elegant and… perfect for… night views."
He emphasized the last words deliberately.
Qian Renxue's chopsticks stilled. Her ears flushed pink.
She knew "Linghua Pavilion" wasn't an ordinary inn—it was Spirit City's most renowned couples' retreat.
She shot him a look. "You've done your research thoroughly."
Dai Chengfeng smiled openly. "For you? Naturally."
Setting down his chopsticks, he leaned forward, eyes blazing. "Well, Angel Princess? Care to experience it?"
Her cheeks burned, but anticipation coiled low in her belly.
After years of masks and repression, perhaps she needed this night—to shed every duty, be simply Qian Renxue, with him alone.
"…Alright."
She lowered her lashes, voice barely audible yet clear.
A flash of victory lit Dai Chengfeng's eyes. He paid swiftly, standing. "Let's go."
---
Linghua Pavilion was nestled in South District's quietest quarter, far from main street noise.
Externally, it resembled a refined garden villa—white walls, dark tiles, upturned eaves. Two phoenix-emblazoned lanterns cast hazy, intimate light over the entrance.
Hand in hand, they stepped inside.
Within lay hidden courtyards, winding paths, and fragrant incense.
A graceful maid in pale robes bowed. "Welcome to Linghua Pavilion. Do honored guests have a reservation?"
Dai Chengfeng gave a name.
The maid gestured gracefully, leading them through corridors to a secluded courtyard. Above the gate hung a plaque: "Perching Phoenix Pavilion."
"This is one of our finest suites," the maid explained softly. "Features a private hot spring for stargazing. Utterly secluded." She offered a phoenix-carved jade key. "Ring the silver bell if needed. Enjoy your evening." With another bow, she vanished.
Throughout, Qian Renxue kept her eyes downcast, feigning calm—but her racing pulse and crimson ears betrayed her.
Dai Chengfeng noted everything, amused but composed.
He took the key, pushing open the carved door.
The courtyard was small yet exquisite.
A stone path led to a pavilion beside a hot spring ringed with smooth pebbles, steam blurring moonlight. Plum trees rustled in the breeze. Most striking: the main chamber's roof—crafted from translucent crystal panels revealing the starry sky.
"Well?"
Dai Chengfeng closed the door, turning to her with a smirk.
Qian Renxue surveyed the scene. Undeniably perfect—elegant, private, dripping with romantic design.
She inhaled sharply, masking her fluttering heart. "It's… acceptable."
Dai Chengfeng chuckled, circling her waist from behind, chin resting on her shoulder. Warm breath teased her neck.
"Just 'acceptable'?" He nipped her earlobe, voice rough. "High standards, my Angel Princess."
She stiffened in his embrace, feeling his heartbeat against her back.
Biting her lip, she relaxed into him. "…Don't tease me."
"I'm not teasing." His kiss scorched her nape. "Calling this place 'acceptable' feels like a crime."
He guided her toward the spring.
Moonlight and lanterns danced on clear water. Dai Chengfeng tested the temperature—perfectly warm.
"Bathe first? To unwind."
Qian Renxue stared at the misty pool, then into his fathomless eyes. Her pulse thundered.
She knew: stepping in meant no turning back.
But did she even want to?
Taking a steadying breath, she untied her hairband. Golden locks cascaded like liquid starlight.
She stepped forward to the pool's edge…
Though resolved, nerves still prickled her skin.
Dai Chengfeng waited silently, watching her with burning intensity.
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