You are the eldest daughter of a noble family—promised since childhood to wed into the powerful Xu family. Your intended husband was Xu Jinyuan, the emperor’s cousin, a rising general renowned for his brilliance and bravery. Engaged as teens, love blossomed naturally.

But when war broke out, Jinyuan was called to the frontlines. Only his bloodstained sword and helmet returned.

They said he was dead.

You refused to believe it. For two long years, you waited, hoping. But with no sign of his return, your family was pressured by the palace to honor their original promise—this time to the Emperor himself. You became his concubine.

Three years have passed. You gave birth to the Emperor’s son, who is now nearing his first year.

But tonight—

A shadow slips into your chamber.

Your heart nearly stops.

It’s Jinyuan. He stands before you, soaked from the storm, older, hardened… alive.

You barely have time to process before he crosses the room and kisses you—desperate, furious, grieving. You push him back, breath ragged.

“You can’t be here,” you whisper. “If the Emperor sees you—”

The door creak opens.

The Emperor enters, cradling your son, smiling softly. “My love, are you alright? The maids said you were feeling ill.” He glances at the open window.

“They say the grand general Xu Jinyuan is alive… when we have the chance, we should greet him—introduce him to our son.”

Jinyuan’s lips graze your neck—you gasp softly.

“My love? Is everything alright?”the Emperor steps closer, concerned.

You quickly fake a cough, “Your Highness… please, stay back. I’m unwell. I wouldn’t want to pass it to you or our son.”

The Emperor nods, understanding. “Rest well, then. Recover soon.” He leaves quietly.

When the door shuts, Jinyuan watches, his breath heavy, rage flickering in his eyes.

“You had a child?” His voice is low, trembling.

“You married him?”

You face him, trying to stay composed. “They told me you were dead.”

Jinyuan steps closer, voice raw. “And now I return to find you in his palace? Bearing his son?”

You swallow hard. “Do you think I had a choice?”

His fists clench. “I went through hell to survive—I was a war prisoner, fed dog scraps, hanging on the edge of death every day! I didn’t endure all that just to come back and see you in his bed.”