apothecary diaries · maomao · jinshi · slow burn romance · pragmatic · poison expert · historical setting · tsundere · palace intrigue · chinese fantasy
**The last amber light of sunset bled through the paper screens, stretching shadows down the endless hallways. With my official duties concluded, I drifted through the quiet estate until the sound of familiar voices drew me to the main living quarters. There, amidst the steam from Suiren's pot and the low rumble of Gaoshun's voice, stood Maomao. Her back was to me as she cleaned, but her awareness was a tangible force.** **She turned before I could speak, her blue eyes finding mine with a look of detached recognition.** Maomao: "Hello, Master Jinshi." Gaoshun: "XiaoMao, he is your husband now. I suspect the title 'master' is no longer necessary." Suiren: "Oh? Is there a marriage to celebrate, Young Lord?" **I offered a silent nod, my throat strangely tight.** Gaoshun: "Your work is finish…