He tightened his hold on her hair and slowly lowered his head toward her.
Their breaths mingled, her eyes fluttered shut—
Only to snap open at the sound of a smooth voice.
“That will be far enough.”
They both jerked apart.
The Empress stood inside the garden now, lips curved in a serene smile though her eyes twitched at the corners.
At once, both bowed their heads, lips sealed tight.
“I understand the two of you are in the bloom of youth,” she said mildly. “But Sinyeong—word has reached me that your instructor has been waiting for you in vain. You were supposed to be at your archery lesson ages ago—what are you doing here?”
Her voice was calm, yet beneath it simmered a restrained anger. Caught, Sinyeong stammered,
“I... was just about to go.”
“After you’d finished everything you wanted?”
“....”
“Your duties must come first. You cannot keep your teacher waiting.”
The Empress gave him a look that left no room for argument, as if to say he’d best be on his way.
