Gathering Clouds and Joy

Li Yunxi, the legitimate daughter of a minor military officer, was beautiful and graceful, easygoing by nature, and treasured by her father and brothers. Her life had always been smooth.

Then her father and brothers were killed in battle. Though Yunxi had lost her protectors, she still faced hardship after hardship with composure.

Until one day, someone suddenly burst into the quiet estate where she was staying, covered in blood, and plunged into the spring where she was bathing.

Jiang Xun, heir to the Duke of Ying's title, was strikingly handsome and exceptionally capable, earning the emperor's trust. He was the ideal husband in the eyes of every noble young lady.

No one could have guessed that someone of his status was a frequent visitor to that estate.

Young as he was, Jiang Xun wielded great power. He was ruthless and arrogant, and everyone assumed he would never be interested in a lowborn orphan like Li Yunxi. Eventually, even Li Yunxi herself couldn't figure out what he was thinking.

But though Li Yunxi couldn't control what others did, she could control her own heart.

When he disappeared for many days, Yunxi was clear-minded. She didn't ask a single question, simply turned and left with her usual composure.

When Jiang Xun returned to find the place empty, he was consumed by anguish.

The busier his duties became, the more her image filled his mind. His regret grew even greater than his longing, spreading like weeds.

Jiang Xun thought that if he couldn't see her again, he would surely go mad!

It turned out he hadn't merely been captivated by her beauty for a moment. He had truly fallen for her.

Bonus scene:

After Li Yunxi left the capital, she found herself a good man. On the night she had prepared her wedding dress, someone suddenly kicked in her door.

Jiang Xun's face was icy, his expression livid as he tore her wedding dress to shreds.

He gripped her waist and let her crash hard into his arms, his bloodshot eyes blazing with passion.

Carefully concealing the humble plea in his heart, he spoke in a fierce, harsh voice: "As long as I'm alive, Yunxi, you are not marrying anyone else!"

Theme: If you like someone, say it. Don't let a sincere heart pass you by.