Yuan shut the door behind him with a soft click, releasing a long breath the moment he turned around. Prince Jian stood near the low table, already pouring tea, his sleeves rolled neatly, posture composed—as always.
Jian: "You practically ran in here. Should I assume Princess Lian is chasing you again?"
Yuan walked in, shoulders slumping.
Yuan: "She was waiting at my door like some kind of spirit of doom. I chose survival."
Jian laughed under his breath—a quiet sound, rare and warm. It surprised Yuan every time.
Jian: "You speak as if she intends to devour you."
Yuan: "At this point? I wouldn't be shocked. First Princess Lian, now Princess Ming… Your palace is dangerous."
Jian raised a brow.
Jian: "To hear you talk, you would think you were the most desired man alive."
Yuan: "I'm not! That's the problem! I shouldn't be! I'm trying to stay low-key, live quietly, and not die before my time—yet all your sisters are circling me like hungry cranes."
Jian's lips curved.
