The palace corridors had grown quiet by the time Jun Kai returned to his residence.
Most of the banquet guests had already withdrawn for the night. The laughter and music that had filled the inner halls earlier had faded into distant echoes, leaving behind only the soft glow of lanterns lining the long stone passageways.
Warm golden light stretched across polished floors.
Servants bowed as Jun Kai passed.
Guards straightened respectfully.
Jun Kai returned each greeting with calm nods, his posture composed, movements steady. Anyone watching him would see nothing unusual.
Just another young noble returning from the Crown Prince's birthday banquet.
But the moment Jun Kai stepped into his private chamber and closed the door...
His composure collapsed.
Jun Kai leaned back against the door and covered his face with both hands.
Silence filled the room.
Then he groaned.
"Xiao Jun Kai… what did you just do?"
The memories replayed immediately.
Grabbing Jin Yue's wrist.
