Chapter 1358 - 1365: Situ Changge’s Impulse (4)
Although her infatuation was well-known in the Capital, he never gave her a second glance, his passion devoid of the slightest response; even upon seeing her, he would always meet her with a cold stare.
But she was not discouraged, for he likewise paid no attention to other women, be it Princess Helena from the Xianbei Empire, the daughter of the Great General, or the countless heiresses from prestigious families; he ignored them all.
She knew that he was arrogant and proud, that common loveliness could never catch his eye. Thus, she endeavored to improve herself, in poetry and verses, zither, chess, calligraphy and painting, even in astronomy, geography, and medical divination, she dipped into some, just so she wouldn’t bore him during their time together someday.
She waited in silence, without harboring any resentment or regret, not as ostentatious as Helana, nor as impatient as Li Ruizhu. She firmly believed that as long as she kept vigilant, the day would come when clouds part to reveal the moon.
Later on, he fell in love with someone else!
Learning of his betrothal to another left her heart shattered. That woman he was betrothed to, she had seen her on the Shangsi Festival, a rare beauty who captivated not only him but also the Great Khan of Liaodan Kingdom. At the time, she still harbored a slim hope, believing the woman to be nothing more than a pretty face, a flower vase who would eventually lose his affection. It wasn’t until the day of their Grand Wedding when he publicly decreed a lifetime commitment to her alone, vowing that she would be the only one in the Imperial Harem, did she panic. She suddenly realized she couldn’t go on waiting like this. If she did not take the initiative, she would forever miss the chance to be with him.
So, disregarding her parents’ earnest dissuasion and strong opposition, she insisted on entering the palace as a palace maid. She thought, as long as she had the chance to be alone with him, relying on her learning and insight, he would certainly notice her and gradually grow fond of her.
She did not expect to snatch him from the Empress’s grasp, not even to share his attention equally. All she wanted was for him to reserve a tiny spot in his heart for her, just enough for her to have a foothold.