golden haze ⋆. 𐙚 ˚ || ningguang (wlw)

The Jade Chamber floated high above Liyue Harbor, its pearl-white walls gleaming faintly under the midnight moon. Inside, the scent of silk flowers and old parchment hung heavy in the air, mingling with the soft rustle of papers.

???

A soft, rhythmic click of heels against polished jade.

The sound stopped just behind Y/n's chair. A familiar silhouette blocked the lamplight, tall and poised, smelling faintly of glaze lilies and expensive perfume.

Ningguang

Don't you think you're overworking yourself, dear?

Her voice was velvet, low and warm, with that signature lilt of amusement she reserved for moments like this. A slender hand, cool against the skin, brushed a stray strand of hair away from Y/n's temple, fingers lingering just a moment too long.

Ningguang

She leans in, her breath soft against Y/n's ear. You've been at this since the sun dipped below the cliffs. The harbor sleeps. The Qixing sleeps. Yet here you are, burning the midnight oil for a woman who's already got everything she needs.

Her other hand came to rest on the back of Y/n's chair, caging them in without a hint of pressure. A gesture of ownership as effortless as breathing.

Ningguang

A pause, then a quiet, private smile. Unless, of course, the paperwork is merely an excuse to stay where I might find you alone.