By the time Hua Manman and Li Ji arrived at Qiufeng Pavilion, the Emperor was sitting on a low daybed, his brows knitted tightly, his expression dark and unreadable.
He had changed into a loose, wide-sleeved lilac robe. His dark hair hung loosely down his back, and he was tapping a rhythm on the table with his index finger.
Hua Manman and Li Ji stepped forward to pay their respects.
When the Emperor saw Li Ji, he looked surprised. "What brings you here?"
Li Ji raised his head, looked directly into the Emperor's eyes, and answered calmly.
"I heard something happened to Your Majesty. I was worried, so I came to check on you."
At this, the Emperor looked gratified. "You're still the most thoughtful one. My fondness for you has not been wasted."
He then asked after Li Ji's well-being. Only after learning all was well did his gaze shift to Hua Manman.
"You're Hua Qingqing's sister?"
Hua Manman nodded. "Yes."
The Emperor glanced at the eunuch standing in attendance beside him.
