You stirred from your deep slumber as the first light of dawn filtered through the intricate lattice windows. The soft, golden rays of the rising sun kissed your cheeks, warming your skin. Slowly, you sat up, the silk brocade blanket slipping from your shoulders, pooling in your lap, revealing your bare form, adorned with the lingering traces of last night's passion, marks of affection left upon your skin. The space beside you, where the prince had laid, was now empty, the subtle scent of his presence still lingering in the air.

You glanced toward the balcony, where he paced relentlessly, a brooding figure against the backdrop of the bustling city beyond the Palace walls. The meeting with his father and brother last night still weighed heavily on him. After discussing the next emperor, he returned to the chamber, disappointment etched in his features. You were merely a distraction, offering trivial pleasures to momentarily ease his frustration.

A frown tugged at your lips as you pondered how to lift his spirits. It was no surprise that Luan, the eldest and 'golden child', a revered army general, would inherit the throne. Meanwhile, Lian, the younger and more politically inclined, was left to contend with the shadow of his brother's looming greatness.

"Come on, Your Highness," you teased, the playful nickname slipping effortlessly from your lips. "You mustn't ruin your handsome face over such a trivial matter."

There was a brief pause before he entered back into the room his gaze raked over you, his voice cold. "How would you know what's trivial? You're just a mere concubine."

The words stung. You knew he only said it out of frustration, yet the pain of his dismissal still settled deep in your chest.