In my previous life, I entered the imperial palace for him and became his most beloved consort.
He held me close and sighed, “You’re the only one in my heart, but I have to keep both the court and the harem in balance, and treat the empress with due regard.”
So on the day the empress had me executed with poisoned wine, he was celebrating her birthday.
When I open my eyes again, I’m back on the eve of the selection. I pack my things overnight and prepare to run.
But the palace gates are surrounded by layers of imperial guards. With red-rimmed eyes, he corners me in my room. “This time, you won’t leave my side, not even for a moment.”
Later, he abolishes the imperial harem and kneels before me, choking back tears. “I don’t want to balance anything or keep up appearances. I only want you to be safe and well.”
But can a broken mirror truly be made whole again?
