Su Qingyue bit her lip, not entirely convinced by Gu Sinian's words.
No, to be precise, Gu Sinian might have conveyed the Emperor's actual words. But who could guarantee those words would hold true in the future? While it was said that the Emperor's words were as good as decrees, history was never short of those who went back on their promises. What if the Emperor merely wished to placate her for the present moment?
Qi Zhenzhen gave Gu Sinian a meaningful glance. Some things were simply easier to discuss between women.
Gu Sinian understood, bowed, and quietly departed.
Qi Zhenzhen pulled Su Qingyue to sit down. "Now that the imperial decree has been issued, that matter is settled. You must know in your heart that the Second Prince will likely not let you leave easily. In such circumstances, if anything were to happen to the child in your womb… not only would we be implicated, but you yourself would not escape the charge of harming royal offspring."
Su Qingyue gave a wry smile. "I know what you're saying. Don't worry, I was impulsive before. I'll leave here and then..."
"What you do after leaving is indeed no longer our concern. But you clearly can't bear to part with him…" Qi Zhenzhen sighed. "You cannot leave the Second Prince for now…"
Unable to leave, yet wanting to abort the child, this would forever create an irreparable rift between them.
"Your Highness…" Su Qingyue shook her head in despair. Their relationship could never go back to how it was.
If she kept the child, she couldn't protect it and would only subject it to unwarranted hardship.
Qi Zhenzhen could see Su Qingyue's dilemma. She gently patted her hand. "Perhaps you could try trusting the Emperor? Although the decree has been issued, it doesn't require you to return to the Second Prince's residence. They don't know where you are, so they naturally can't reach you here."
Su Qingyue's eyes brightened. Yes, the imperial decree didn't require her to return to the Second Prince's residence.
As long as she didn't go back, she wouldn't have to face the Empress and Lu Ruoyun.
"Furthermore, since the child has been conceived by you, it is your destiny. Can you bear to sever this bond? He has the chance to experience the world, and you can't bear to deny him even a glimpse?" Qi Zhenzhen coaxed. "Perhaps things are not as bad as you think?"
Listening to Qi Zhenzhen's words, Su Qingyue's gaze gradually shifted from confusion to determination.
"Thank you," Su Qingyue said sincerely.
Qi Zhenzhen smiled. "The cart will find its way when it reaches the mountain. Things are in people's hands. I believe that often, even when faced with what seems like a dead end, as long as you refuse to accept your fate, you can find a way out."
Su Qingyue nodded heavily, feeling a bit embarrassed. "After hearing your words, my mind is clear. I was being stubborn before! A mother's love makes one strong. No matter what, I will do my utmost to protect my child. Regarding the Second Prince, I would trouble you and Lord Gu to help mediate. I don't wish to receive any more letters from him. As for whether to meet or not, that will depend on the Emperor's plans."
"Rest assured, the Emperor is not unreasonable. Her Majesty the Empress, not knowing your whereabouts, cannot restrain you," Qi Zhenzhen said. "You just focus on resting here and nurturing the pregnancy. Don't worry about anything else."
"Great kindness needs no thanks," Su Qingyue said solemnly.
"Then I won't disturb your rest," Qi Zhenzhen stood up. "Feixu is still here serving you. If you need anything, just ask her to find me. Our acquaintance is also a matter of fate."