The Second Day

Qiao Xuan was left speechless.

"I'm not pretending," she insisted. "I just feel like resting a bit longer."

Even in defeat, she refused to admit defeat. Despite his unreasonable behavior, she tried to see reason in it.

Shao Yunduan didn't argue, merely smiling. "You slept from yesterday afternoon till now. Do you still want to rest?"

"What!" Qiao Xuan's eyes widened. Was it already the next day?

The brightness of the sun confirmed it. She realized her perception was skewed; late autumn meant shorter days and longer nights. She had thought she slept for a significant period with the Elder, but apparently not.

Shao Yunduan noticed her shock, his smile widening.

Qiao Xuan composed herself, refusing to give in. She couldn't let him think he'd won.

So she blinked and replied calmly, "I know, but I could still use a bit more rest."