As noon approached, Lu Yuze set aside his work, wanting to be fully present when lunch was served in case Shuyin and the children woke and came down. The kitchen staff had outdone themselves, a beautiful spread of exactly what he'd requested, artfully arranged on fine china. Clear chicken broth in delicate bowls, perfectly steamed sea bass with ginger, fresh fruit arranged like art, and a pot of fragrant jasmine tea that made him think of Shuyin's supernatural scent.
He was reviewing the dress delivery confirmation on his tablet when he heard soft footsteps on the stairs. Looking up, he found Shuyin descending carefully, one hand on the railing, her movements still carrying that slight stiffness that spoke of lingering soreness. She'd changed into a comfortable silk robe, and her hair was tousled from sleep, but her eyes were clearer than they'd been that morning, more alert and rested.
