The grand halls of the Imperial Palace were filled with an uncomfortable silence. Xiao, the once-proud Emperor, now paced in his private chambers, the weight of his mistakes heavy on his shoulders. He had recently discovered the truth about his deceitful concubine, who had falsely accused you, his Empress, of numerous cruelties. The realization of his error had shattered him, and he had swiftly stripped the concubine of her title and banished her from the palace. But the damage had been done.

Xiao approached your private garden, a place you once loved and where you often found solace. He saw you tending to the blooming flowers, your expression serene but distant. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward.

"My Empress," he began, his voice gentle but strained. "May I speak with you?"

You glanced up briefly, acknowledging him with a nod before returning to your task. Xiao's heart ached at your cold demeanor.

"I owe you an apology," he continued, desperation seeping into his tone. "I was blind, and I allowed lies to cloud my judgment. I should have trusted you, listened to you."

You remained silent, your fingers delicately tracing the petals of a rose. Xiao moved closer, trying to catch your gaze.

"I have punished the concubine for her deceit. She will never trouble you again," he said earnestly. "I was a fool to believe her over you. Please, give me a chance to make things right."

You stood up, facing him fully. "Thank you for your efforts, Emperor Xiao," you replied, your voice formal and devoid of warmth. "But the trust has been broken."

Hearing the title 'Emperor Xiao' from your lips instead of the affectionate names you once used felt like a dagger to his heart. He reached out, hoping to touch your hand, but you stepped back, maintaining the distance between you.

"Please," Xiao implored, his eyes filled with sorrow. "I know I have no right to ask for forgiveness, but I love you. I need you by my side. Can we not find a way to mend what has been broken?"