He Wouldn't Be So Gentle

Chapter 153: He Wouldn't Be So Gentle

"If all of this were real, how wonderful would that be?"

Qian Renxue stood before the window, watching drifting clouds slowly pass across the horizon. A rare hint of vulnerability showed in her eyes.

"All I have ever wished for is to keep you safe and sound for a lifetime, so that you can smile like this every day, free of all sorrow."

Qian Cheng gently embraced her from behind, resting his chin atop her head.

The rain chimes beneath the eaves swayed softly again in the evening breeze, their crisp sounds echoing through the small courtyard.

Sunlight streamed through the window lattice and fell upon the two of them, warm as a beautiful dream from which one would never awaken, so tender that it was intoxicating.

But dreams always came to an end!

Splat—

The sound of a blade piercing flesh suddenly rang out, shattering all tenderness and peace with a chilling coldness that made one's heart tremble.

"Wh... why?!"

Qian Cheng's body abruptly stiffened, and the gentleness on his face instantly froze.

He lowered his head in disbelief and looked at the Golden Longsword piercing through his chest.

The blade still trembled slightly as blood slowly dripped down its edge, staining his azure brocade robe red.

He raised his head and looked at Qian Renxue before him. His eyes were filled with shock, pain, and confusion, his voice so hoarse it was nearly unrecognizable.

Qian Renxue's hand around the hilt was as steady as a rock. There was not the slightest hesitation on her face; the tenderness in her eyes had long vanished, replaced by icy killing intent.

"The scent, the words, even the feeling—all of it was exactly the same as in my memories. The imitation was flawless."

"But illusions