I strained to hear the conversation outside.
“…Does the Prince know where my wife is?”
“How could… she be missing?”
Anxiously, I called out to An Jin in my mind, urging him to come quickly. But he didn’t hear me.
“Does the Prince really not know where my wife has gone?”
“I do not know.” The Crown Prince’s voice was steady and dignified. I felt indignant; he was lying without a hint of hesitation.
An Jin fell silent for a moment. Thinking of his previous confrontational attitude, hope ignited in my heart. If only he would forcefully enter and check…
“Since that is the case, I will not disturb the Prince.” An Jin’s voice was methodical. “This subject takes his leave.”
He left, just like that. So much for lovers being telepathic… He couldn’t be aggressive on someone else’s territory. If he did, he would likely become a prisoner tomorrow as a Ministry of Personnel official.
The Crown Prince returned, clearly pleased with himself, his footsteps lighter.
“Did I not say so?” He pulled back the golden bed curtains, smiling. “My lady, just stay here peacefully. I can protect you completely, yes?”
I blinked.
His expression cooled slightly. “Why must you be so stubborn? I am doing this for your own good.”
I blinked again.
He shook his head. “I originally directed my heart to the bright moon, but the moon only illuminates the gutter. A good bird chooses its nest; An Jin is not a worthy tree to rely on.”
I blinked desperately.
He seemed to realize something. “Oh, I almost forgot, my lady cannot speak yet.”
I closed my eyes, almost moved to tears. He pulled out a sachet and brought it to my nose. A strong, irritating smell made me choke and cough. After coughing, my throat gradually regained movement.
The Crown Prince watched me warily, as if I might run away.
I nodded stiffly, eyes brimming with tears: “The Crown Prince is licentious and took a fancy to my looks, forcibly abducting me into the palace. I wash my face with tears daily, fortunately rescued by this brave hero…”
The masked man finally seemed unable to contain his indignation, covering his forehead and turning away, his shoulders trembling before calming down. “Since that’s the case, I shall act righteously today and rescue you from peril.”
I was overwhelmingly grateful.
