Ruan Ning did not like sleeping with the lights on, so the bedroom was pitch dark, but she recognized Chu Yuan’s outline. She reached back to hug him, leaning against his broad chest, and softly said, “Let’s get married.”
She knew he must have argued with the emperor for a long time, which was why he returned at midnight. She could sense his mood was not good, so she hugged him tighter, trying to calm him.
Chu Yuan seemed to sense her thoughts and gently kissed her hair with a mix of joy and emotion.
Although he had publicly declared her his wife-to-be during the day, Ruan Ning had not seriously considered marrying him until now. They had been sleeping together, and everyone in Bian Xiang Palace tacitly accepted her as the mistress, but Chu Yuan had not touched her. He had shown restraint, making her feel secure. He truly loved and protected her, treating her like a rare treasure. Now she was no longer afraid of him.
After becoming familiar, she realized that although he occasionally fell into fits of rage, he genuinely cherished her more than those who appeared gentle and refined.
When he suggested marriage, she instantly knew her feelings and agreed without hesitation.
Chu Yuan’s kisses moved from her hair to her forehead, then her cheek, finally stopping at her lips. His kisses transformed from lingering to urgent, as if years of unresolved tension found their answer here. All pain and wildness halted at this tranquil harbor. He thought that from now on, he too would have a home.
He whispered, “Let’s go get married.”
He carried Ruan Ning to the central courtyard of Bian Xiang Palace, where two osmanthus trees grew. Even in winter, they remained green, standing side by side at the same height. Chu Yuan gently set her down and said, “Let’s do it here.”
He unbuckled a bundle from his back, opening it to reveal a ceremonial robe. “This is the wedding dress my mother wore.”
Ruan Ning stood still, allowing him to dress her, fastening the ruby-carved buttons. On this moonless night, in the faint starlight, Chu Yuan held her face and smiled: “You are beautiful.”
Ruan Ning smiled and said, “I think so too.”
