Chapter 121: He craved power more than love
The wedding banquet was in full swing, the grand hall of the Hua mansion buzzing with life.
A sea of crimson drapes cascaded from the high ceilings, embroidered with golden patterns that shimmered under the soft glow of candlelight.
Every surface was adorned with exquisite red and gold lanterns, filling the air with a warm, festive radiance.
The scent of rare incense mingled with the aroma of roasted duck, sweet rice wine, and exotic fruits, creating a tantalizing atmosphere fit for an imperial celebration.
Hua Ling sat beside her mother, Chen Li, a satisfied smile curling her lips.
Her makeup was flawless, her lips painted a deep crimson to match the embroidered silk of her wedding dress.
The golden phoenix hairpin perched atop her head gleamed as it caught the candlelight.
But despite her perfect image, the heat of the crowded hall was making her makeup smudge at the edges.
Her fingers curled into her lap, barely containing her impatience. She leaned toward her mother, voice hushed but sharp.
"Is that wretched woman not here yet?" she asked, eyes darting to the entrance. "I want her to be here when I make my grand entrance. She needs to see this. She needs to suffer."
Chen Li placed a gentle but firm hand over her daughter’s, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Calm yourself, Ling’er. She will be here soon enough. There is no way she would dare miss this."