Yao Ji’s eyes flew open. Her right hand instinctively went to her chest, pressing lightly. Even now, she could still feel the frantic beating of her heart.

When he’d spoken those words, the poison that had plagued Pei Yan had only just been purged. He’d been sitting on the soft couch, draped in a robe, his face still pale. The lack of color in his lips only served to accentuate the darkness of his eyes, making them gleam like polished lacquer. The gentle, hopeful light within them seemed almost liquid, on the verge of spilling over.

How could anyone refuse such a man?

But Yao Ji did. She couldn’t bring herself to answer with a simple “yes.” It was because of her shadowed past, because of the possibility that one day, under the duress of the Boundless Sea Tower, she might be forced to hurt him.

She didn’t know what Ye Chong Lou’s purpose was in maneuvering her into the Pei household, but it certainly wasn't anything good.

So Yao Ji remained silent, watching as the smile on Pei Yan’s lips slowly froze. The light in his eyes dimmed, inch by inch. It was strange; though blind, he possessed eyes that were remarkably bright and clear.

“My lord,” Yao Ji said, her voice strained, “It is not that I am unwilling to be with you, but my status is lowly. How could I possibly be worthy of you…?”

“Yao Yao,” Pei Yan interrupted, his face etched with disapproval. “There is no need for such self-deprecation.”

Status, position—those were things Pei Yan never cared about. In his heart, it was he who was unworthy. He was a blind man, while Yao Yao… she was different.

But Yao Ji still shook her head. No matter how Pei Yan tried to reason with her, she refused to agree to the marriage. Pei Yan could see that her refusal wasn't rooted in indifference. Disappointment pricked at him, but it was overshadowed by confusion and guilt. Confusion over her true reasons, and guilt that she should remain by his side in such an ambiguous position. He couldn’t bear it.

But Pei Yan was gentle by nature and never forced anyone to do anything. Though he longed to marry Yao Ji, all he could do for now was gently persuade her. Secretly, he ordered his men to investigate Yao Ji’s life before she entered the Pei household, hoping to uncover the reason for her refusal.

And so, Yao Ji remained by Pei Yan’s side, her position undefined.

Pei Yan treated her as if she were his wife, ensuring her comfort and providing for her every need. Yet, they lacked the official title of husband and wife, which naturally led to whispers among the Pei household staff. However, while Pei Yan was lenient with his servants, he wouldn't tolerate inappropriate gossip. Therefore, no one dared to voice their opinions openly, and they all treated Yao Ji with utmost respect.

Yao Ji wasn't raised in a traditional manner. In both this life and her previous one, she hadn't placed much importance on titles or social standing. She felt content simply being able to spend her days and nights with Pei Yan.

They spent their time discussing poetry and paintings, practicing literature and martial arts. Pei Yan was a polymath, knowledgeable in everything from astronomy to geography. Yao Ji, with her experiences in  Green Abyss Valley and her past as a celestial fairy, possessed a unique perspective. They complemented each other perfectly, their days as sweet as honey, a match made in heaven.

This peaceful existence didn't last long. One day, in the garden, Yao Ji saw a familiar face. Her hand trembled, and her silk fan fluttered to the ground.