Hearing this answer, Zhao Ming remained calm, his expression unruffled, as though he had expected it.
He did not interrupt, merely watching her quietly. Seeing no reaction from Zhao Ming, Su Qianxue did not avert her gaze and continued.
"Three years ago, I refused. Back then, to me, you were just a stranger who boasted about being the best of the Capital City's younger generation."
"Three years later, I still refuse. Not for any other reason, but because this engagement was never my own choice."
She tightened her hands slightly. "I've known since childhood that, as the legitimate daughter of a great clan, I couldn't make every decision about my life myself."
"I acknowledge that, and I've never resented anyone for it. But accepting my lot doesn't mean admitting defeat. I can accept my clan having a say in how my future is arranged, but I cannot accept even my feelings being used as bargaining chips."
"So you mean that, unless it's your own willing choice, you won't agree to it, no matter who the other person is, as long as this marriage alliance is founded on interests." Zhao Ming's voice remained calm.
"Yes."
Zhao Ming watched her in silence for a moment, then asked the question weighing on his heart. "Does your decision have anything to do with Lin Jin?"
Su Qianxue froze slightly.
She had expected this question, but hearing it still stirred a faint ripple within her.
She shook her head.
"It has nothing to do with him." Her tone was frank and calm. "Ultimately, I haven't known Lin Jin for very long, while my aversion to this engagement has been there ever since the marriage alliance between our clans was decided."
"I admit I've developed some affection for Lin Jin lately, but that has nothing to