I was torn between laughter and tears, as it felt like they were bargaining over a cabbage.
An Jin continued to lower his head and firmly said: “This subject cannot agree.”
The Emperor seemed stunned. “Could it be that Miss Xue should become a concubine? This is really…” He stroked his mustache, looking at An Jin helplessly.
The Empress scrutinized An Jin, slightly frowning. They were indeed selling a cabbage named Xue Miao Yin.
An Jin remained resolute. “This subject cannot marry.”
The Emperor’s smile faded as he turned a cold gaze towards An Jin. “Are you defying the imperial decree?”
“Your Majesty is benevolent and will not issue a decree that goes against his subject’s wishes.”
An Jin’s defiance was clear. The Emperor understood immediately, and after a moment, he coldly laughed: “If your wife cannot bear you a child, what will you do?”
An Jin trembled slightly but quickly regained his composure. “Even if I have no offspring, I will never remarry.”
The Emperor narrowed his eyes. “Are you truly determined, with no regrets?”
“No regrets.”
“Good, good, good.” The Emperor clapped. “Bring wine.”
The Empress’s expression changed to one of disapproval. “Your Majesty—”
A palace maid brought a bronze wine cup. I wondered if it was poisoned. Would refusing marriage lead to death?
“Since you are so determined, I cannot force you,” the Emperor said with a benevolent smile.
