The emperor kept his intention to himself, while Qi Yun continued to play the obedient son.

For reasons she couldn’t fathom, Jun Huang was filled with a sense of apprehension. If something happened to upset the careful balance they’d reached, she had a feeling that the emperor would abandon Qi Yun just as easily as he had done with his other sons.

She didn’t voice her concern. It was without basis served no purpose other than worrying Qi Yun.

Afterwards, Qi Yun took Jun Huang to the royal garden. He heard that the flowers had blossomed and wanted to show her. She followed him without a word. She knew Qi Yun must have something to say to her.

They walked for a while with Qi Yun taking the lead. Then he stopped to look at her with a hesitant expression. Jun Huang smiled and asked quietly, “Is something on your mind?”

Qi Yun nodded and took a deep breath. “I’m not a weak man, but my history with father...