Chapter 12: Tonight, No Mercy Allowed
The young woman was warm and soft, her fragrance intoxicating.
Lu Ying closed the book in his hand, his demeanor unmoved like a mountain: "The physician said you've caught a cold. I've already instructed people to prepare medicine. You needn't return to the Gao Family tonight—rest here in the Shen Garden."
Shen Yinning clung tightly to his waist, her delicate face pressed against his back.
Her voice carried a hint of hoarse nasal tone: "And you? Will you stay and keep me company?"
Lu Ying tried to pry her hands off: "I've promised the Crown Princess Consort to spend the festival with her tonight at the Eastern Palace."
The girl behind him fell into silence.
Soon, Lu Ying felt a warm, wet sensation soaking his robes—it was likely Shen Yinning's tears.
She choked out: "Lu Ying, you locked me, bare and naked, on a black-roofed boat and went off to drink and make merry with your sister and the others. I even overheard the Third Princess asking your sister to let her kiss you. Lu Ying, you know I love you to my very bones, and yet you force me to watch you display your affection for others. Have you ever considered how it cuts me like a knife?"
Lu Ying remained silent.
He did not believe Shen Yinning loved him to her core.
Yet, a woman's tears were undeniable proof.