Seeing her languid state, her eyes barely open, Huai Zi's heart softened. He held her close, refusing to let go, and nestled into the crook of her neck to kiss her earlobe.
A shiver ran through Juhua, waking her completely. She quickly asked, "When do you think that County Magistrate Li will come?"
Her words successfully halted Huai Zi's advances. His expression immediately clouded over. He pressed Juhua tightly to his chest, gently stroking her back with one hand. After a long silence, he said, "We've already discussed it and made a plan. For the time being, Li Changliang will lead some men to guard the village entrance. If any strangers appear, they'll alert the village immediately. We've also posted people on this side of the mountain, and all the young women are forbidden from wandering outside."
Feeling apologetic for ruining his mood, Juhua said softly, "Let's get up. Your mother is probably busy already. Weren't there still a few relatives here last night who hadn't left?"
