Was I Convincing Her, or Convincing Myself? (Please Subscribe and Vote with Monthly Tickets)

The Empress Dowager's trusted maid entered carrying a jade tray. "Your Highness, the chilled sour plum soup you requested."

The maid looked up and saw Li Chen wearing nothing but a sleeping robe. She froze on the spot.

The Empress Dowager hurriedly took the jade tray. "Leave it here and go."

The maid hastily withdrew, her heart filled with shock.

She had never seen the Empress Dowager and His Majesty being so intimate.

A delicate silence settled over the Bedchamber Palace.

The Empress Dowager gave a light cough, trying to ease the awkwardness. "The Imperial Kitchen developed this sour plum soup from your original recipe. Would you like to try some, Your Majesty?"

Li Chen took the jade bowl and tasted a mouthful. It was quite good.

In truth, their so-called new development was merely the addition of a few seasonings the Empress Dowager liked, which improved the flavor.

The Empress Dowager lowered her head and began tidying the clothes. "I'll make a few more alterations to these."

"Sorry for the trouble, Empress Dowager."

Li Chen finished the sour plum soup and set the bowl back on the table.

"It's getting late. I should return."

The Empress Dowager nodded, but as he turned away, she could not help calling out, "Your Majesty!"

Li Chen looked back. "Was there something else, Empress Dowager?"

The Empress Dowager hesitated, then finally said softly, "Remember to come by often to try on the clothes, so I can see whether the alterations fit."

Li Chen smiled gently. "All right."

After Li Chen left, the Empress Dowager let out a long breath and sank onto the cushioned couch.

She stroked the fingers that had just touched Li Chen, her heartbeat still refusing to settle.

Just then, her trusted maid slipped inside and asked cautiously, "Your Highness,