1822 Promise to Qing 1
Qing gazed at Ouyang Mingjing with wide eyes, her heart pounding in her chest.

She had always been a part of the troops, never daring to entertain the thought of approaching him. She understood all too well that it would remain nothing more than an unattainable fantasy.

But now…

She found herself in his presence every day, engaging in conversations where he displayed personal emotions towards her. It felt like a dream come true for Qing.

Initially, her frequent visits to this place were solely to check on Elder Miss and ensure her well-being. However, over time, she realized that she might encounter him here and even exchange a few words. It was as if fate compelled her to be drawn here, against her own will.

And true to form, she once again found herself standing in such close proximity to him, hanging onto his every word and scrutinizing her own reflection in his eyes.

Qing dared not utter a single word, but she continued to stare.

Meanwhile, Ouyang Mingjing regarded Qing intently.

Qing possessed an exceptional beauty, surpassing that of ordinary maids. If she were dressed differently, she could easily be mistaken for a noble lady.

She excelled in every aspect, save for her social standing.

If she could stand by his side, someone should admire and adore her.
As the City Lord of Snow Territory, a man of the highest status, he believed he should be able to attain anything he desired.

As the City Lord, Ouyang Mingjing had always been aware that his wife should be Phoenix Girl. His duty was to forge a perfect partnership with her. However, today, he witnessed Phoenix Girl risking her life for another man, displaying her indifference towards him. In that moment, he questioned the purpose of waiting for a perfect union with her.

Why should he adhere to outdated traditions?

Didn’t he deserve a woman who genuinely adored him?

Ouyang Mingjing soon came to the realization that the traditional path was not necessarily the right one for him. He didn’t have to deny himself the affection of a woman who genuinely liked him.

Turning his gaze towards Qing, he posed a direct question, “Do you like me?”

Qing didn’t deny it. Though she was timid, quiet, and lacking in confidence, she mustered the courage to admit her feelings.

And admit them she did.

“Yes, I like you. I don’t expect much from you. I can be your servant if you wish, or I can keep my distance,” Qing replied, her tone laced with self-deprecation.

Ouyang Mingjing furrowed his brow.

That was precisely what he disliked—her self-deprecating manner. As the City Lord of Snow Territory, he had no need for a woman who demeaned herself in such a manner.

“I don’t need you to be my servant, and I don’t want you to keep your distance. I exist in my own realm, and you don’t need to label yourself as a servant. There’s no need for such words. I cannot bring you out of the darkness just yet, so for now, you must hide yourself. But in a few days, hopefully soon, you can come and stay by my side. Remember, I don’t desire a person who constantly belittles themselves next to me. So, do you understand what you should do?” Ouyang Mingjing emphasized.

He had never envisioned making such promises before, but the events of the day had left him feeling distressed, compelling him to offer these assurances.

Qing was utterly dumbfounded, unable to process the sudden turn of events.