Chapter 2: The Night of the Cloud Mirror

Inside the banquet hall of Yunmeng Pavilion, the lighting gradually softened as guests, either standing or seated, savored the grandeur of the engagement celebration.

Yun Qiuyah was already slightly intoxicated; her cheeks glowed with a rosy flush, her eyes were hazy, and her lips parted slightly, her breath tinged with the scent of wine. Her body swayed unsteadily, as though she might collapse at any moment.

At that moment, He Lingfeng finally appeared at the entrance of the hall.

Dressed in a tailored suit with his tie neatly fastened, he looked impeccably sharp, yet there was an almost imperceptible trace of fatigue and tension in his eyes.

The instant Yun Qiuyah saw He Lingfeng approach, her taut nerves relaxed, and her body went limp, sinking into his arms.

It was as if she had found her anchor; her hands clung tightly around his neck, her eyes closed, surrendering herself completely to the warmth she found there. Strands of her hair, slightly disheveled, clung to her cheeks, lending her an even more delicate and seductive charm.

Young Master Lin, standing nearby, raised his brows and teased, "Lingfeng, where have you been? Did changing your shirt really take that long?" His tone was laced with mockery.

He Lingfeng replied impatiently, "Mind your own business," a flash of annoyance flickering in his gaze as he cast a fleeting, playful glance at the woman in his arms.

Without another word, he scooped Yun Qiuyah up, cradling her horizontally. Her face pressed against his chest, her arms entwined around his neck.

Yun Qiuyah's breath rose and fell against his chest, mingling with the subtle fragrance of wine, causing He Lingfeng's heart to tremble ever so slightly.

Clearing his throat, he announced to the assembled guests, "The engagement banquet ends here. Thank you all for gracing us with your presence. I look forward to seeing you again at the wedding."

The guests, understanding the situation, offered their well-wishes and began to take their leave.

"What a perfect pair—handsome and beautiful. We look forward to next time."
"Thank you for your hospitality!"

Those departing noticed Yun Qiuyah had clearly had too much to drink, and He Lingfeng plainly wished to end the proceedings.

At Yun Jing Villa.

Back at Yun Jing Villa, Yun Qiuyah changed into a lace nightgown and lay on the bed. Her breathing gradually steadied, but her cheeks were still flushed, her eyes lingering with intoxication.

The scent of wine lingered on her, blending with her own fragrance to create a unique allure. Her hair was scattered across the pillow in a charming disarray, adding a touch of languid sensuality.

He Lingfeng, wrapped in a bathrobe, emerged from the bathroom; droplets of water still fell from the tips of his hair, making him appear all the more alluring.

After getting into bed, he lay with his back to Yun Qiuyah. No sooner had he closed his eyes than he felt a warm hand rest on his chest.

At the same time, Yun Qiuyah's voice, soft as a whisper, brushed his ear, "Lingfeng..." There was a hint of longing in her gentle tone.

He Lingfeng caught her restless hand, stopping its slow exploration.

He took a deep breath and, with a calm expression, said, "I'm exhausted tonight. Let's get some rest." There was weariness and resignation in his voice.

Yet Yun Qiuyah seemed not to have heard.

Her hand lingered on his chest, her body shifting slightly in silent protest.

He Lingfeng sighed helplessly. Turning to face her, he gazed into her misty eyes.

He gently tucked her hand back under the covers and drew her into his arms. "You're drunk. Rest well tonight."

Within He Lingfeng's embrace, Yun Qiuyah finally quieted.

Her breathing became slow and deep, as if she had already drifted into a peaceful sleep.