The hallway was dimly lit, casting elongated shadows on the walls. A little boy stood in the shadows, peering with anger-etched eyes towards the closed door at the end.
Though he couldn't see the face of the lady who entered the room, he knew her all too well. His small fists clenched in frustration as he contemplated his next move.
Determined, he began striding towards the room, intending to confront the woman who had caused turmoil in his young life.
But just as his hand reached for the doorknob, a familiar voice sliced through the air, halting his advance.
"Young Master Qin," the soft voice called out, breaking his single-minded focus. He hesitated, his hand hovering above the door, and turned towards the sound.
His nanny stood there, a gentle smile on her face, concern shimmering in her eyes.
"Master has retired for the night, and he wouldn't be pleased to find you here," she spoke softly, her voice laced with understanding.