Joyful Reunion

The Ming family’s entire household were heroes who fell on the battlefield, leaving only Ming Shu, a frail and orphaned girl.

Her father’s dying words had been: “A Ji was a dear friend of mine, though we were generations apart. He’s loyal and honorable, and he’ll surely protect you and make sure your life is safe and happy!”

Xiao Ji, the Marquis of Dingbei, commanded an army of four hundred thousand at just twenty-five. A distinguished war hero and powerful figure, he was someone even the emperor feared.

But Ming Shu was most afraid of her father’s stern, solemn, and unsmiling old friend. He managed every little thing, even lecturing her for half an hour if she drank one bowl less of soup at dinner!

Ming Shu: ≥﹏≤

When she was finally old enough to discuss marriage, Ming Shu insisted on marrying as soon as possible.

She thought that if she escaped Xiao Ji’s ever-present control, she could live freely for the rest of her life. Little did she know her husband’s family had only cared about her family’s military achievements. Once they’d secured high rank and riches, they showed their true colors. A cup of poisoned wine ended her life, and they used her dowry to bring the woman he’d always loved into their home!

Ming Shu bitterly regretted it. When she opened her eyes again, she found herself back on the night Xiao Ji had opposed the marriage and she’d thrown a tantrum.

Unable to hold it in any longer, she burst into tears. “Waaah, I’ll listen to you! I won’t marry him!”

The tall, imposing man stiffened. A strange look slowly surfaced in his deep, unfathomable eyes. “Since Shushu won’t marry him, how about you take a look at me?”

Ming Shu wiped her tears and nodded. “Okay... huh?!”

-

Xiao Ji had a secret no one knew: he had fallen for the daughter his dying friend had entrusted to him.

The little girl was timid, avoiding him like the plague whenever they met. She wouldn’t even spend the allowance he gave her, yet her beautiful eyes would light up with smiles for the one she loved.

Beneath his stern, dignified face roiled jealousy and resentment. But in the end, all he could do was helplessly agree to let her marry in splendor.

Only then would Ming Shu be willing to look at him.

Who knew he would be the one to end her life with his own hands?

Waking from his nightmare, Xiao Ji finally understood: only he could make Shushu happy!

Even if he had to use every underhanded trick to coax and deceive her, he would keep her by his side!

He never expected the girl to throw herself into his arms this time.

Well... then he couldn’t be blamed.

Theme: A devoted gardener never thinks any flower is too difficult to tend.