Xia Yuqing didn't move.
Long Mingzhe's voice deepened, cold and sharp. "I'll say it again. Come here."
She bit her lip, her body trembling. When she took a hesitant step forward, Lu Jinchen's hand shot out, pulling her back. "She's not going anywhere," he said firmly.
The emperor's eyes darkened. "Who are you to say that?"
Lu Jinchen met his gaze without hesitation. "Her husband."
Long Mingzhe let out a low, mocking laugh. "I think you've forgotten something, Mr. Lu. You two are already divorced."
Lu Jinchen only shrugged. "Then she's the woman I love. And, divorce or not, she is staying by my side."
The emperor's smile faded, replaced by a cold sneer. "She is my empress. Her place is by my side. So do the right thing, Mr. Lu—let her go and return to your fiancée."
