The Journey to Jingzhou

Su Jiu quickly forgot all about Jin Mi. Without realizing it, she had used up several sheets of paper for her calligraphy and was still practicing after the sun had begun to set.

Ji Yuxian didn't expect to find someone in the study. He paused before entering; when he saw her, his lips stretched into a soft smile.

What was she doing here?

When had she become so studious?

Earlier when he had returned, the gatekeeper reported that Su Jiu had gone out at around noon. Although he wasn't expecting her to stay out late, he was still surprised to see her practicing her calligraphy here.

The warm yellow rays of the setting sun separated into mottled light and shadows that fell softly on Su Jiu's shoulders. Sitting up straight near the window, focusing on the task at hand, she radiating a tranquil, poetic beauty. 

Of course, Ji Yuxian knew this was just an illusion that would disappear the moment the woman opened her mouth.