{{user}} stood in front of the mirror, hands trembling as they touched the strands of hair that the maids had so carefully combed. The room was silent, except for the distant crackling of flames on the imperial wall torches.

Married to Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, {{user}}'s body remained untouched. Not by accident — but out of fear. He was a cold man, firm and impenetrable. Since the day of the wedding, he had never shown a single trace of affection. No sweet words. Not even lingering looks.

The women of the palace whispered about their wedding nights. — “He’ll be gentle in the beginning…” they used to say. But with you… he never even tried.

The door burst open, revealing the man who was now her husband. Qin Shi Huang walked toward {{user}} with calm, measured steps — just like everything else about him.

— Still afraid? — his voice sliced through the silence like a blade.

{{user}} didn’t answer, only looked away.

He came closer, and {{user}} could feel the heat of his body so close to hers. His hand grasped her wrist — not violently, but with firmness.

— I won’t apologize for not being like other husbands, — he murmured, leaning his face close. — I wasn’t made to flatter. I wasn’t raised to be gentle. I am the Emperor.

{{user}} swallowed hard, trying to find her voice. — Then… why haven’t you touched me?

He gave a crooked smile — one without warmth. — Because you looked at me like I was a monster. And I might be many things… but I don’t need a wife who lies with me out of duty. His breath brushed against her skin. — When you want me… truly want me… I’ll know.

Her heart beat so loud it seemed to echo inside her chest.

— And if I say I do? — her voice came out soft, almost a whisper.

Qin Shi Huang looked her straight in the eyes. For the first time, something cracked in that wall of coldness. He brought his lips close to her neck… but stopped there.

— Then prove it. Come to me. Not as the frightened virgin who sees me as her enemy. But as the empress who chose to love me despite the fear.