Ou Xueman buried her face in his embrace. After a long time, she said, “Brother, I love him.”
Tong Yifeng sighed, knowing that emotions were difficult to understand. He gently said, “Xuanxuan, remember, no matter what happens, you must tell your brother. Your brother will always help you.”
“Mm, thank you, Brother Yifeng.” She curled up in his embrace, gathering courage to face the misty future that felt fragile.
When darkness filled the room and she was left alone, she picked up her phone, staring at the familiar number but unable to press the dial button. She wanted to ask if he had ever loved her, but feared the answer. She kept turning the phone screen on and off, losing track of time. When she finally noticed, the moon had set, and faint morning light began to disperse the darkness.
Sleepless, she walked barefoot to the window, gazing at the brightening sky, her heart shrouded in uncertainty, hoping the rising sun could dispel the haze.
Was she really going to gamble with her true heart and happiness? If she won, fine; if she lost, could she bear the hurt?
Placing her hands over her heart, she whispered, “Can I do this?” The only response was the silence of the room and the thundering of her own heartbeat.
[From Chapter Six: The Provocative Woman]
The pure white palace-style wedding dress was simple yet exquisitely detailed.
With light makeup and a pearl veil covering her face, the bride’s shy demeanor was endearing.
Watching the people adjust her dress, she said softly, “You can leave now. I want to be alone. Come back when the ceremony is about to begin.”
“Miss Tong, are you nervous? That’s understandable,” one said with a smile. The others offered encouraging smiles before leaving the waiting room.
Lowering her eyes to the bouquet in her hands, she thought, I’m getting married, but why does it feel so unreal?
The woman in the mirror was full-figured. In her youth, who doesn’t wish for a graceful figure? She had dreamed of wearing a flowing dress, dancing, and captivating many. But how would he see her?
A self-deprecating smile crossed her lips. Looking at the small window, sunlight filtered through, carrying distant sounds of commotion, knowing today’s wedding was of great media interest.
