A hint of an unreadable smile laced the Duke's deep, lingering voice.
He pulled her into a full embrace.
Yu Zhizhi said softly, "He saved me, you know..."
"I hope he'll be alright."
The Duke smelled of pleasant body wash. His collar was wide open, and with her back pressed tightly against his chest, she could feel his strong, steady heartbeat.
She gasped.
She felt something suddenly lick her neck.
'The sensation was just like a snake!'
"Was the apple good?"
The Duke's golden, slitted pupils were filled with mirth. "How come I don't see you giving me any gifts?"
"Ah!" Yu Zhizhi realized what he meant and gently tugged on the wide sleeve of his robe. "How about tomorrow? I need to think about what to get you."
He had to admit it.
'When he heard the servant's report, a bitter feeling had soured in his heart.'
'He was just a Wild Dog, after all—'
'He must be going mad.'
'To be so bothered by a single apple.'
