“Father, I agree to marry for a political alliance.”
Ning Zhi’s voice echoed through the empty hall.
The emperor’s hand paused as he reviewed the memorials. A trace of delight crept into his voice.
“Zhi’er, you’ve finally come to your senses. Didn’t you say you had someone you loved and didn’t want to marry for an alliance? I was ready to arrange a marriage for you, but you wouldn’t tell me who he was. From the way you kept him under wraps, I knew you and that little rascal wouldn’t work out.”
At her father’s words, a faint sadness spread through Ning Zhi’s eyes.
“I was young and didn’t understand what love was. I’ll leave the marriage alliance to you, Father.”
“You don’t need to worry. The eldest princess of Great Yan must be wed with the highest honors. All you need to do is take the other bride’s place with peace of mind. We’ve always been on good terms with the Northern Dynasty. I’ve met its emperor a few times. He’s not bad-looking, and he has some skill at governing and keeping the realm in order. He’s a fine match for you.”
“Oh, and we’ll probably have to trouble the Marquis of Dingyuan to escort you as an envoy. Do you remember? He saved your life during a hunt a few years ago.”
Ning Zhi fell silent, unable to meet her father’s eyes.
After a long while, she finally replied,
“He can’t go.”
Because he was the man Ning Zhi had once loved.
