The emperor gently caressed Yan Meilin's cheek, his fingers soft and warm against her cold skin. He looked at her deeply, as if trying to read her soul. "You've lost weight," he whispered softly.
Yan Meilin didn't respond. Her lips stayed pressed together, and her eyes remained lowered.
The emperor sighed again. "Do you not love me anymore?"
At that, Yan Meilin finally looked up. Her eyes were filled with tears. She didn't speak, but her expression gave away everything her heart wanted to say.
He smiled softly and reached out to wipe away her tears. "Do you know why I called you here tonight?"
"Why?" she asked in a shaky whisper.
His eyes darkened slightly. His voice was calm, but the words that followed felt like knives."Meilin, have you thought about when you are going to break the soul bond between Qingqing and me?"
Yan Meilin froze. Her eyes widened in disbelief. She stared at him, unable to speak at first. Then she shook her head slowly and said, "I've already refused…"
