Chapter 178: Proof
We went as far as to submit fake evidence to prove that he had taken my virginity. Of course, the emperor and everyone else was under the impression that our relationship started on that night. The truth was far from it though.
“What are you implying?” the emperor asked suspiciously. frёewebηovel.cѳm
I had a feeling that no one in the room, including the emperor, had missed the hidden implication behind Prince Kin’s accusatory words. Nervously, I glanced over at Ren and saw that he hadn’t reacted at all to his brother’s words.
“The crown prince is always busy working and Lady White Lotus is always busy working at the hospital. That’s what I’ve heard and apparently it seems to be true. With the two of them being so busy, you can’t blame me for questioning if the two are really in a relationship at all...” Prince Kin hypothesized.
“That’s what I’ve heard as well, emperor. It is also true that Lady Kamiya is still not with child...” the empress quickly supported her son.
I glanced over at Ren again and saw that he was just listening patiently to what the mother and son had to say. He didn’t say anything, and he didn’t show any emotions. As for me, I felt so enraged that I wanted to run out of the room and scream at the top of my lungs. Instead, I sat there in silence as I glanced down at the floor.
Perhaps seeing that the emperor was eagerly listening, and that Ren had not said anything to defend himself, Prince Kin continued on with his crazy theories quite confidently. Unfortunately for us, he was half right...
“Perhaps...even after all this time, Lady White Lotus is still a virgin...” Prince Kin hypothesized as he eyed Ren and I challengingly.
My head snapped up at his outrageously impolite words. To discuss a woman’s chastity was considered very impolite. I couldn’t believe that my chastity was being discussed right in front of me. I gasped in shock. For the first time in my life, I was relieved and overjoyed that I had lost my virginity. If I hadn’t, perhaps both Ren and I could be executed for it.
“I...” I began to speak; however, Ren’s raised his hand and halted me into silence.
“Enough with your groundless theories and accusations. I would normally not say anything if your words were aimed at me; however, your words have made My Lady feel very uncomfortable,” Ren said sternly.
“Kin, please apologize to Lady White lotus for your inappropriate speech,” the emperor ordered.
“Yes, father. My Lady, I apologize if what I have said may have offended you. It wasn’t my intention to do so,” Prince Kin said as he bowed a little in my direction.
It wasn’t his intention? I wanted to laugh my head off. If that was sarcasm, then it was a good one...
Not wanting to risk a slip of my tongue. I decided to nod a little to acknowledge his somewhat insincere apology.
“Ren, please explain...” the emperor demanded, and I felt his eyes on us.
“What is there to explain? Rin and I are in a relationship just like how you would imagine and just how we should be,” Ren replied with absolute certainty.
His words helped me to regain back some of my confidence and it really reassured me. I looked at the Emperor and I could tell that he was unsure of what to do or how to proceed.
“Father, please do not believe his words lightly. The family’s lineage is on the line here,” Prince Kin said as he stood up from his seat and bowed to the emperor to beg him to consider his words.
Why is he so desperate to discredit Ren and me? Does he want to take over the throne that badly?
“Yes. Please listen to what Kin has to say,” the empress quickly supported her son by pleading to the emperor.
These two mother and son seemed so in sync that I was starting to get jealous over their strong bond. Although, I knew that this wasn’t the time for me to be impressed by their mother and son bond. The emperor seemed on edge and very indecisive. Things are not looking so good for us.
“You better show us some proof,” Prince Kin demanded.
Proof? What proof?
“Rin and I are a couple and we’ve been living that way since the first night that we spent together. Your concerns are truly unwarranted. We did submit the necessary evidence already after our first night, if you can recall...” Ren explained patiently.
“That is indeed true...” the emperor mumbled as he considered Ren’s words.
“Lying to the Emperor is an act of treason!” Prince Kin shouted as he pointed an accusing finger at his brother.
“So is laying your hand on the Crown Prince’s woman...” Ren answered back. His voice cold.
“...I never...” Prince Kin denied. His face clearly shocked at Ren’s truthful accusation.
“You are free to accuse me; however, do remember that incorrectly accusing the crown prince is an act of treason,” Ren reminded, his tone severe.
“Your Majesty, I suggest that the Lady White Lotus be examined by the royal doctor to determine the intactness of her chastity,” Prince Kin confidently suggested as he turned to address the emperor directly, following his words with a low bow.
“Hmm...” the emperor stroked his beard, deep in thought as he considered Prince Kin’s suggestion.
What?! He just suggested that I...what?!
Of course, I’m not a virgin but that’s not the problem here! I don’t know the exact details of the examination, but I could guess what it would entail. There’s no way that I would go through with something as degrading and embarrassing as that. I glanced over at Ren in a panic.
“That won’t be necessary. I can show you some proof right now and put these ridiculous accusations to rest,” Ren said as he stood up and then calmly bowed to his father.
I watched in slight confusion as Ren came over me and pulled me up by the arm until I was standing at his side. His hand gripped my arm tightly and I could feel his anger despite the pleasant look plastered on his face.
“Sorry for this, Rin,” Ren whispered silently to me.
--To be continued...