The water had barely calmed when a dark, powerful shadow cut through the sea toward them at frightening speed.
Xuan Long was in his true form. His long, massive serpent body moved effortlessly beneath the surface, each powerful wave of his tail pushing him forward faster than any of the others. Water parted for him as if it feared him.
But the moment his eyes landed on Su Qinglan, who was alive, breathing, arguing like a cheerful female, something in him softened.
In the next second, his upper body transformed into human form and emerged from the water beside her.
He did not hesitate.
He pulled her straight into his arms.
Su Qinglan barely had time to gasp before she was pressed against a strong, cool chest. Xuan Long's hand slid protectively around her back, holding her firmly as if confirming she was real.
He lowered his head.
First, he kissed her forehead.
Then her cheek.
Then the side of her face, his lips lingering as if he had been starving.
