The Husband’s Scheme

If I were him, I wouldn’t believe that eagerly looking at an erotic painting was for artistic pursuit. “No need to explain,” he looked at me with profound sympathy. “It seems you’re not doing well, Thirteen.” I felt my face twitching. He seemed to have gotten the wrong idea? “I didn’t expect An Daren to look so sturdy, but actually—” he trailed off, shaking his head. “Gold is not pure, no one is perfect.” I was certain he had misunderstood. An Jin’s dignity needed my defense. “Your Majesty, you’re truly mistaken. My husband is in excellent health—” “You’ve suffered so much,” he interrupted me, his face full of feigned compassion. “Every family has its own troubles. Don’t worry, I won’t ask more.” I waited despondently for him to finish speaking. I decided not to explain further, as explanations would only seem like cover-ups to him. Yan Or continued talking, seemingly consoling but actually gloating. I realized this person’s conscience wasn’t particularly admirable. Finally, he was satisfied, ending his “consolation” with a rosy complexion, and gave me a lingering look. “If you regret it, what I said before still stands.” I was speechless, forcing a laugh. “Your Majesty certainly knows how to joke.” “I’m not joking,” he persisted relentlessly, his face showing some seriousness.