"Your feelings caught me by surprise. I was a little caught off guard, too."
"Thank you for thinking so highly of me. You have excellent taste."
"As for me, it would definitely be a lie to say I had no feelings for you. I can't fool the Sihang Golden Palace, and I can't fool myself."
"Still, I'm not some simple-minded lecher."
"My appreciation for you comes from the heart, and my respect for you comes from my true self. To be honest, these feelings are more like those for a friend or family, and less like those for a lover."
"Of course, none of that matters. Feelings can be nurtured; there is plenty of time ahead. Love that endures through the years needs diverse ingredients to remain stable."
"I only want to tell you that I'm no born genius, either. I'm just an utterly ordinary person."
"To receive your favor and your companionship is my honor."
"I will never trample upon this purity or betray this bond."
"As for the future, I cannot be sure. I don't know whether we will become lovers or husband and wife, nor have I figured out how to handle my relationship with you sisters. But I can promise that I will never use you and will always be sincerely truthful with you."
"Not to escape a crisis, not to seek a turning point, not because circumstances force my hand, nor as an expedient measure. I will always be your most dependable support."
"My lies are useless against you, so you should know the sincerity in my heart."
"Then, are you willing to accept my support?"
Their heart-voices passed between them, hearts resonating as one.
The hollow Shi Yulei suddenly bloomed into a beautiful smile, silent yet clear in its meaning: I am willing.
Shi