Hu Xiaotian secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Only then did he realize that he was still holding Princess Anping. He hurriedly released her and bowed deeply. "I have offended Your Highness. Please punish me."
Princess Anping had already heard enough to understand what had happened. She said softly, "Never mind. It wasn't really your fault. That girl Qiqi has always been mischievous. She must have truly driven you to desperation."
"Thank you for sparing my life, Your Highness," Hu Xiaotian said. She had never said anything about killing him, but by putting it that way, he effectively treated her forgiveness as a settled matter.
Princess Anping said, "Hurry and leave while she's out."
"Yes!" Hu Xiaotian turned and headed down the stairs.
Princess Anping called after him again. "Wait."
Hu Xiaotian thought she had changed her mind and could only stop. Then he heard Princess Anping say, "I'd better walk you out. Even if we run into her, I'll explain and tell her I let you go."
Warmth spread through Hu Xiaotian's heart. She was so understanding, always considerate of others. They were both princesses, yet look at how gentle and virtuous this one was-she practically embodied every feminine virtue under heaven. Looking again at Princess Anping's beauty, enough to topple cities and kingdoms, he admired her all the more. Winning the heart of such a beautiful princess would certainly count among life's greatest pleasures.
Princess Anping naturally knew nothing of the filthy thoughts in his head. Her reason for helping him was simple: she felt sorry for this little eunuch who had been bullied so badly and wanted to help him escape Qiqi's clutches.
Stepping outside, she found no one there and beckoned to Hu Xiaotian, who quickly followed her out. Only after leaving the courtyard did he