Chapter 47
The palace was calm that evening. The air was cool, and the soft glow of lanterns flickered across the hallways. Ping sat by her window, gazing at the moonlit garden below. She had been recovering well, and for the first time in days, she felt strong enough to walk around without Mei fussing over her.
But her heart felt heavier than ever.
She thought about everything—the way Ling had stayed by her side, the worry in his eyes when she was ill, the way he barely slept just to make sure she was safe. She had been afraid of him once, yet now, she couldn't imagine her life without him.
A soft knock interrupted her thoughts.
"Come in," she said.
Ling stepped inside, dressed in his usual black robes. His silver hair shimmered under the candlelight, and his golden eyes settled on her. "You should be resting."
Ping smiled. "I've been resting for days."
Ling leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "Still, you shouldn't push yourself."
There was a long silence between them. Ping knew this was the moment. If she didn't say it now, she might never find the courage again.
Taking a deep breath, she stood from her seat and walked toward him.
"Ling."
He looked at her, curious at the sudden change in her tone.
"I… I have something to say," she began, her fingers nervously twisting the fabric of her dress.
Ling's brows furrowed. "What is it?"
She hesitated only for a moment before stepping closer, placing her hands on his. "I love you."
Ling's body stiffened. His usually unreadable expression flickered with something—shock, disbelief, and then something softer.
"Say that again," he said, his voice quieter than before.
Ping felt her cheeks flush. She hadn't expected him to react like this.
"I love you," she repeated, this time stronger.
For a moment, Ling just stared at her. Then, suddenly, he let out a deep breath, as if he had been holding it for years. A slow, rare smile appeared on his lips—genuine and filled with warmth.
"Ping…" He reached up, cupping her face gently. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to hear that."
Her eyes widened. "You… you have?"
Ling chuckled softly, his thumb brushing against her cheek. "Of course, foolish woman. You are my wife."
A warmth spread through Ping's chest. She had never seen Ling like this—so vulnerable, so happy.
Ling pulled her close, resting his forehead against hers. "I love you too," he whispered.
Ping closed her eyes, feeling the steady beat of his heart against her own. For the first time, she felt truly at home.