Night lay heavy, yet the lights inside the Princess's Mansion remained warm. Xu Jiujiu had sat with Dai Youheng all afternoon, her slender hand stroking his back now and then, trying to dispel the immense grief that seemed to shroud him.
As she looked at the man in her arms, seemingly shattered in an instant and left with nothing but his fragile dependence on her, a vague feeling in Xu Jiujiu's heart became clearer than ever.
When had it begun? When he stopped being that meek, submissive illegitimate son who knew only how to cling to her?
Was it when he dazzled everyone at the tournament, producing one clever strategy after another? Or had it begun over the past year, as he helped her handle affairs of state and revealed his astonishing talents and unique insights?
His strength, intelligence, and tenacity had long since seeped into her heart, drop by drop.
Amid her heavy sorrow, this realization brought Xu Jiujiu a secret flicker of joy.
She had long been prepared to sacrifice her marriage for the empire's interests, but that did not mean she had no longing for genuine affection. If her marriage partner were both a capable pillar who could bring the empire tremendous benefits and someone she truly loved, would that not be the perfect ending?
"Youheng," she said, her voice gentle yet firm, "rest assured. I will help you reclaim everything that should rightfully be yours."
Dai Youheng seemed to draw some strength from her words. He slowly raised his head, his eyes no longer hollow with despair but burning with an almost obsessive resolve. Rising to his feet, he said solemnly to Xu Jiujiu, "Thank you, Your Highness. Don't worry. I won't let this destroy me. Mother and Luo Li wouldn't want to see me like