Just as I was immersed in that lingering, tender dream, I suddenly heard Qingmiao's urgent call: "Junior Uncle?" This shout was like a thunderclap, instantly pulling me back from the illusory dream into reality.
I gave a start and bolted awake, my flustered gaze instantly meeting Mu Yanfeng's intense and focused eyes. At that moment, time seemed to stand still. I only felt my face burning as if scorched by fire, turning crimson in a flash, while my heart pounded violently as if it were about to jump out of my throat.
Unaware of anything unusual, Qingmiao still said cheerfully, "Junior Uncle is awake? We should get going." Her crisp voice sounded particularly jarring at that moment. Embarrassed and not knowing what to do, I could only lower my head, trying to mask my panic and shyness.
Chapter 18