Bao Bing went to the kitchen for water, her gaze fixed on the person on the sofa with a furrowed brow. She felt an inexplicable mix of emotions—guilt, heartache, and warmth from a long-dead heart.
Water overflowed from her cup, spilling on the floor before she realized it and turned off the dispenser. “Water…” she brought the cup to him.
He lay motionless, eyes closed, breathing deepening. Seeing him asleep, she knelt on the carpet, holding the cup. The soft light from the floor lamp highlighted Ye Zhengchen’s brow, a face that had appeared countless times in her dreams.
Her hand reached for his brow, triggering a tremor at her fingertips. She withdrew, startled. Ye Zhengchen’s brow knitted deeper, and he moved with difficulty. The heavy military uniform, once fitting perfectly, now seemed stuffy and uncomfortable, especially the collar button that constricted his throat, making it hard for him to breathe. His face turned red, and sweat began to roll from his hairline.
Staring at his collar, Bao Bing put down the water cup and touched the button before withdrawing her fingers. After a moment’s hesitation, she reached out again. The button felt cool, but his neck was scorching hot, stirring her heart.
Finally, with sweaty palms, she undid the button. The military uniform, now half-open, revealed an unexpected allure, especially on such a seductive man. Her hand instinctively reached for the second button, and one by one, the golden buttons came undone.
After the last button, she sighed in relief. Just then, she met his piercing gaze. “You?” she stammered, gathering her composure. “Would you like some water?”
A mischievous smile appeared on his lips. “You seem particularly interested in my buttons.”
“I…” Her face flushed. “I thought you were a bit hot…”
“I am a bit hot,” he whispered in her ear, “continue.”
“I’ve already finished,” she replied, embarrassed.
“There’s still the shirt…”
Flustered, she quickly brought the water cup to his lips. He took a big gulp, droplets clinging to his thin lips, tempting her to help him dry them.
His gaze slid down her open bathrobe neckline. “Do you remember what you promised me?”
She nodded, recalling her promise to accompany him for twenty-four hours, agreeing to anything he wanted without saying “no.”
“I’m hungry…” he said softly. “I want to eat a bowl of noodles you cook.”
