Page 59 of For Ever More

“I would like to see where they are cultivated,” Jin says.

The general’s face shutters. “Their location is a secret.”

“It must be beautiful,” Shenming says to her. “I hope it’s well guarded.”

“Of course. These pearls are our kingdom’s most precious treasures. No outsiders are allowed there, without Lady Shufang’s permission.” She glances at him. “I hope you do not think us inhospitable.”

He shakes his head. “Our people would practice the same caution. As your guests, we will respect your rules.”

“Thank you for your understanding, Captain Shenming.” She offers him a rare smile. “Why don’t you sit with me tonight? We have much to share regarding the training of our troops. I would like to learn more about Thorn Valley too.”

“I would be honored,” Shenming says, inclining his head.

As they walk ahead of us, Jin says almost admiringly, “Who knew the noble captain could lie this well?”

“Imagine if General Suilan discovers he’s a ‘vile magic-wielder,’” I add in hushed tones.

“Fortunately, she’s never been to our realm,” Jin says. “Captain Shenming can make up any story he wishes, though I doubt anyone can persuade General Suilan to bend the rules. She seems the unyielding type, driven by honor and duty.”

“Like him.”

The quiet intensity in Shenming’s manner as he listens to the general reminds me of how he is with Dian. “He’s not just trying to persuade her to help us; he likes spending time with her.”

“Good,” Jin says with a grin. “There was always the risk he’d change his mind and cast his eye at you after all.”

“You know our arrangement is false.”

“I take nothing for granted.” He speaks seriously now. “However, it matters less who he wants but who you want.”

The wind blows, flowers drifting from the trees. Around us, the Ice Pearls shimmer with ethereal radiance. Yet it is the light in his gaze that captivates me, shifting to clear amber—more beautiful than the rays of dawn.

He holds out his palm to me. “I know our kingdoms are in conflict, that you’re afraid to lose what you’ve regained. But if you take my hand, I will make everything right between us. You won’t have to choose between your family and me, because they will be mine too. Trust me, Yining. Every day, I will give you another reason to.”

This promise echoes in my mind, etched in my heart… unearthing the truth I’ve tried to lock away, even from myself. I place my hand in his. His fingers close around mine, his mouth curved into a smile filled with fierce longing—one that makes my face burn.

“I want you, Lord Jin-Yong.”

“I’m beginning to like you speaking my full name,” he says gravely. “You used to utter it in anger, with resentment, like you were reminding yourself of the lies of the past. Now it bears a different ring, far more to my liking—of accepting all of me.”

An unfathomable lightness fills me as I shift closer to him. “Then I will say it again, Lord Jin-Yong.”

His arms circle my waist, pulling me to him. Heat flares, setting my body afire. As he lowers his head, I clasp him tighter, my heart racing until I can’t speak.

Voices penetrate our daze. As we break apart, Lady Shufang and Prince Zixin appear. I try to move away from Jin, but his arm holds me by his side.

“Let them see us. This will put the Lady of the Pearl Ocean at ease, so she doesn’t view you as a rival. It will keep you safe.”

My throat constricts. “Rival?”

“She is astute enough to sense Prince Zixin’s interest. Though it won’t deter her intentions, she would prefer you gone.”

The prince and Lady Shufang approach, her pearl-studded gown brushing his white robe. Fury flashes across his face, before it’s swiftly buried.

“Are you enjoying your stay here?” she asks us.

“Lady Shufang, your home is beautiful,” I reply. “The Ice Pearls in your garden are especially wondrous.”

“We are fortunate to possess them,” she replies.