Only One Person to Wreck

[Powerful Empress Dowager x Young Number One Scholar]

Meng Lanshi is an Empress Dowager who holds power.

The first time she hears the name Shen Yun, it is from the new emperor. Her stepson, whom she raised herself, complains to her, "Our great Xia is full of talented people, yet in the palace examinations, nine out of ten are absolute eyesores."

She says, "An emperor mustn't judge people by their appearance."

The young emperor waves a hand. "Mother, you didn't see them. Compared to everyone else, Shen Yun is so handsome he looks like a god. When I was grading the papers, I'd already decided to name him the top scholar, but then I saw the other candidates, so I had to settle for making him the third-place scholar."

The second time the emperor mentions Shen Yun, the young man, dressed in a bright yellow brocade robe, says with conviction, "Shen Yun is only seventeen at most, and you're a full twelve years older than him! Please be careful!"

She tilts her head slightly. "And what if I insist?"

The emperor cries out solemnly, "Mother! Shen Yun is even two months younger than I am!"

Meng Lanshi smiles. "There are plenty of people in this world who devote themselves to the people, but few who devote themselves to me. I'll only ruin one Shen Yun."

But Shen Yun says, "I don't expect you to have only me. But if you've just touched someone else, could you wait a little before touching me?"

He kneels beside the hem of her skirt, his eyelashes faintly damp. He is as tender as fresh bamboo after the rain, his lashes trembling like dewdrops on a gardenia.

Before Meng Lanshi can explain, he says, "Your Highness, just follow your heart. You don't need to placate me with lies. I'll learn to accept it in time. I only ask that you don't grow tired of me too soon."

Meng Lanshi rubs her chin. Hmm, well...

* 17-year age gap. Male lead is a virgin; female lead is not. The male lead suffers a little.

Theme: Life is short, so seize the day.