The proudest political investment of Li Ningxi's life was backing the underdog Fourteenth Prince for the throne.
She treated little Fourteenth like her own younger brother, teaching him right from wrong and keeping him company as he played. All she wanted was for him to remember her kindness and, one day, let her, the Grand Princess, enjoy the honor of being The Outcast, second only to the emperor.
As it turned out, he was a little too grateful.
One moonless, windy night after he ascended the throne, the young emperor cornered her in the imperial study and said hoarsely, "Little Aunt, as long as you don't marry, how about sharing this vast realm with me?"
Li Ningxi was so startled that she immediately picked a date and got married.
There were only a few people under heaven who did not fear the emperor's might, and only one unmarried man of suitable age remained: her nemesis, the second young master of the Duke of Zhenguo's residence.
She could only swallow her pride and negotiate, bearing the humiliation. "Will you agree to this marriage?"
The second young master's illustrious military achievements were known throughout the realm, and countless young women dreamed of him.
He glanced at her sidelong, utterly unconcerned. "Why should I marry you?"
Li Ningxi provoked him. "You're afraid to."
The second young master considered it for a moment, then curled his lips into a half-smile. "On our wedding night, you'll find out whether I'm afraid."
He had always thought she hated him, and that all his life he could only watch her from afar. He never imagined he would live to hear her offer her hand in marriage.
What did he care if the emperor wanted her? No one could take away what was his.
Theme: Be honest about your feelings.
