Time: The following morning
Location: Palace of Heavenly Purity
Morning light streamed through the carved lattice windows, casting dappled shadows across the polished golden tiles. Gu Lian was already awake, being dressed in ceremonial robes by palace attendants. As usual, Ai Miao had arrived early and waited quietly beneath the outer corridor, ready to accompany the morning court.
When the attendants finished fastening the twelve-symbol imperial robe—emblem of supreme authority—Gu Lian adjusted his sleeve. His gaze, seemingly casual, swept over his right hand and paused briefly at the faint callus on his middle finger.
Just then, Ai Miao was summoned into the hall. He lowered his eyes and bowed with perfect decorum. "Your servant greets Your Majesty."
Gu Lian did not immediately bid him rise. Instead, he walked over, standing before him, looking down at Ai Miao's respectful posture. The morning sun outlined Ai Miao's lowered profile and long lashes— Cool, composed, flawless, just as always.
"Ai Miao," Gu Lian spoke, his voice carrying the huskiness of early morning, unreadable in tone. "Last night, I was reviewing memorials until very late. In a daze… I think I had a dream."
Ai Miao's heart skipped a beat. But his voice remained steady. "Your Majesty is diligent. You must have been overtired. May I ask—what sort of dream?"
Gu Lian leaned in slightly, close enough to feel Ai Miao's breath hitch. He raised his right hand, holding it before Ai Miao's face. His fingertip brushed—ever so lightly—against Ai Miao's lowered lashes, Startling them into a flutter like butterfly wings.
"I dreamed," Gu Lian said slowly, with a hint of amusement, "That a bold little butterfly landed on my hand." His finger tapped gently on the callus of his middle joint. "Right here."
Ai Miao's ears flushed red in an instant. But he held his composure, even lifting his gaze to meet Gu Lian's probing eyes. In his ink-dark irises was a perfect mask of innocent confusion.
"Your Majesty must have been too weary. Autumn nights are chilly—perhaps a mosquito disturbed your rest? I'll have the chamber inspected and prepare more sachets to ward off insects."
Gu Lian looked at him—this man who would rather die than admit anything. He nearly lost his stern expression.
Straightening, he let out a quiet laugh— A sound laced with knowing amusement and indulgent helplessness.
"Very well. Perhaps I truly was overtired." He turned, spreading his arms for the attendants to fasten the final jade belt. His tone returned to imperial steadiness.
"Lord Wen'an, come with me to court."
"Yes, Your Majesty." Ai Miao exhaled quietly and rose to follow.
As Gu Lian turned, Ai Miao's eyes flicked up— Just for a moment— Landing precisely on that elegant, callused hand. In the depths of his gaze, a faint, satisfied smile flickered.
And walking ahead, beneath wide sleeves, Gu Lian's right hand—where the "butterfly" had kissed him— Still held the lingering sensation of that fleeting, cool, tender touch.
He curled his fingers slightly, Locking that secret sweetness in his palm.
—A secret shared by no one else. Unspoken, understood. The lightest, sweetest truth beneath the weight of an empire.