Qiqi's beautiful eyes lit up, only to dim again a moment later. "So what?"
"Your Highness..." Hong Beimo inwardly cursed. What did you promise me back then? It seemed the girl was still young, after all, still unable to break free of the shackles of emotion. Hu Xiaotian's marriage had dealt her quite a blow.
"I hear quite a few people have come this time," Qiqi said. "It seems they're all willing to show Hu Xiaotian some respect."
"People are the most pragmatic of creatures," Hong Beimo said. "There are no eternal enemies, only shared interests."
His words drew a cold laugh from Qiqi. Her eyes fixed on his face. "Just like us. The only reason we turned from enemies into friends was that you wanted to use me."
"I have never harbored such intentions," Hong Beimo replied respectfully.
"No need to defend yourself. I know perfectly well what sort of man you are."
"My heart burns with devotion to Your Highness. My loyalty is unwavering!"
"Such pretty words. Then do something for me."
"I await Your Highness's command," Hong Beimo said respectfully. "I would climb a mountain of blades or plunge into a sea of fire, and face ten thousand deaths without hesitation!"
Qiqi shook her head. "It isn't that serious. You all urged me not to come, saying Hu Xiaotian had deliberately laid a trap to humiliate me. But I came anyway. He wants to build his happiness on my anger, and I refuse to let him have his way!"
Qiqi's words secretly alarmed Hong Beimo. Love turned to hatred; even someone as clever as Princess Yongyang could not escape that rule. "I believe this is not the best time to strike," he said gravely.
"You're right," Qiqi said. "Let him finish his wedding in all its glory.