Chapter 62
Ping sat in her chamber long after Ling's footsteps faded down the hallway. His words lingered in her mind, echoing over and over again.
I miss you, Ping.
She closed her eyes, gripping the fabric of her dress.
She wanted to forgive him.
She wanted to let go of the pain, to run into his arms and forget everything, but every time she tried, the memory of those painful nights alone came rushing back. She had left because she believed she had no place in his heart anymore. She had spent countless nights thinking he would move on, that she and their child would become nothing but an afterthought.
And now he wanted her to believe otherwise?
A soft knock pulled her from her thoughts. Mei entered with a tray of food, her eyes scanning Ping's face with concern. "My lady, you should eat."
Ping shook her head. "I'm not hungry."
Mei sighed and set the tray down. "The king has been standing outside your door every night for the past three days."
Ping's eyes widened slightly. "What?"
"He doesn't say much," Mei continued. "He just stands there, hoping you'll talk to him." She hesitated. "I know you're hurting… but my lady, he is too."
Ping lowered her gaze.
"Sometimes, love is about fighting for each other, even when it hurts," Mei added gently before bowing and leaving the room.
Ping sat in silence for a long time.
That night, as she lay in bed, she heard it again—soft footsteps outside her door. He was there.
She turned on her side, staring at the wall, her heart heavy with uncertainty.
For the first time, she whispered, so quietly that no one could hear—
"I miss you too."