By this time, rumors had already begun spreading throughout the capital. By the time Jin Moli reacted, the news might have already reached places beyond the capital.
"Qiao'er..."
Jin Moli had not expected her to be so understanding, nor to truly put him first in everything. Somewhat moved, he took the hand she had placed on the table.
"Qiao'er, don't belittle yourself. The depth of affection has little to do with how long you've known someone. A woman like Qiao'er, who thinks wholeheartedly of me, is truly rare."
"I know I wronged you this time, but I had no choice."
"Right now, the court memorials urging me to reconsider are coming in like snowflakes. The Grand Tutor kept urging me to reconsider in court today as well. If I hadn't suppressed the matter yesterday, there might have been even more such memorials today."
Jin Moli explained, unaware that someone hidden above the rafters was staring daggers at his hand.
Take your filthy hand off her!
I said, take your filthy hand off her!
She's my woman, mine! Not yours, Jin Moli!
Host, if you don't pull away soon, Jin Moli's hand is going to be chopped off.
The corner of Su Qiao's lips curled almost imperceptibly. She took the soup bowl, conveniently moving Jin Moli's hand aside.
"Your Majesty needn't worry. There was a reason for what happened. You missed court because Your Majesty's health was poor. I'm sure the ministers will understand."
"This matter will pass soon. My grandfather is devoted to the country and to Your Majesty. He was probably only offering a small reminder."
Jin Moli let out a breath of relief. "I hope so."
After finishing his meal, Jin Moli sat for a while longer before Su Qiao began urging him, "Your Majesty, it's already time