When Princess Xuanyang first died, Baili Zhen didn't feel much of anything.
A year after Princess Xuanyang's death, he realized she might still be alive.
Later, he went mad.
Reading Guide (and possible content warnings):
1. The female lead marries a second time. Her relationship with her first husband was simply one of mutual support through difficult times.
2. The story is told mostly from the male lead's perspective, with many flashbacks.
3. The setting is very loosely based on reality, and the author has created a self-contained world. Related details are in the author's profile under the Shuo Tu Series Setting Guide. You don't need to read it; it won't affect your enjoyment.
Theme: When you hold a position, you must fulfill its duties.