I picked him up, wiped the crumbs from his mouth, and fed him a sip of tea. Jiang Yun Qiao watched and smiled, “A Yao likes children? You should have more in the future.”
I was slightly stunned, thinking of An Jin. Where would he be now? What would he be doing? Would he remember me? When would we reunite?
If we could reunite, I would be content even if we never had children.
Jiang Yun Qiao, seeing me lost in thought, signaled the imperial consort and wet nurse to take A Fu away. After they left, she leaned close to me, asking with concern, “I heard An Daren’s whereabouts are still unknown. A Yao, rest assured, we’ve sent people to search in Xi Liang and Da Qi Kingdom, and we believe news will come soon.”
I forced a smile. “I understand. Thank you for your trouble.”
“What are you talking about,” Jiang Yun Qiao waved her hand: “We’re family. Your matters are my matters.” She suddenly remembered something and whispered: “Fortunately, we found you and fulfilled Father Emperor’s wish, so I can leisurely stay with my darlings. You know, I only love dealing with these birds and beasts, and have no interest in court affairs.”
Was she indicating she had no intention of competing for the throne and bore me no ill will? Did I show my wariness so obviously?
I smiled awkwardly: “Actually, I don’t want to—”
She suddenly became serious: “This isn’t about what you want. These things were always meant to be yours. Father Emperor has decided, and you absolutely cannot refuse.”
I was stunned, but she suddenly laughed. “This is a predetermined path. Don’t try to escape responsibility and leave the burden to me.”
I chuckled and changed the subject: “You really know how to enjoy life, with a good husband, lovely child, a big house, pets, and wanting plenty of leisure time.”
You’ve claimed all the good things in life.”
Jiang Yun Qiao smiled, with a slight melancholy. “Although that’s true, but—”
I raised an eyebrow: “What? You’re still not satisfied?”
She paused, shaking her head. “As you said, I have everything I should have. If there’s anything I want, it would be something beautiful but untouchable, like a mirage.”
