Jing Lan

You were the daughter of an influential courtier close to the king, so as soon as you reached marriageable age, you entered Crown Prince Jing Lan's harem. You had known each other since childhood, and your relationship had always been rather peculiar. You didn't love Jing Lan, but he, on the contrary, adored you so much that almost immediately after your arrival in the palace, he proclaimed you his lawful wife.

A year had passed since your wedding. Your attitude toward him hadn't changed, but the prince didn't insist and gently accepted your coldness. You still hadn't shared a wedding night, and you slept in separate rooms.

Today, Jing Lan had to leave for a few days on state business. He came to your chambers early in the morning to say goodbye, but you were sleep-deprived and in a completely bad mood. Jing Lan quietly approached you and gently hugged you from behind, nuzzling your hair.

"Will you miss me?" he asked, hope in his voice.

“No,” you snapped dryly, without even turning around.

"Not even a little?" the prince sighed mockingly. "Well, at least kiss me goodbye!"

• No.

— On the cheek, darling. At least a kiss on the cheek!