The air inside was noticeably warmer than outside—as if a fire had been lit, and perhaps it had been.
The heat mingled with the scent of blossoms and fresh greenery, wrapping around her like a veil.
Her eyes widened as she took in the lush foliage and vibrant bursts of color stretching out before her, a hidden sanctuary untouched by the sweltering summer beyond.
Hwayeong slowly turned in place, visibly taken aback by the sheer abundance—until the court lady quietly excused herself and slipped away.
“So this is where they grow flowers in winter,” she murmured.
She’d heard of it before but had never seen it with her own eyes.
Wandering deeper into the garden, she eventually spotted Sinyeong seated alone at a table near the back.
He looked much better than he had last night, and the sight of him upright and alert brought a small wave of relief.
Hwayeong made her way toward him—and just then, as if sensing her presence, Sinyeong looked up.
