I woke up as the Villainous Empress

After indulging in a revitalizing bath, Yang Ning gracefully slipped into a luxurious silk nightgown and made her way back to her chamber.

When Yang Ning returned to the chamber, she found it empty. Zheng Liang had gone to another bathhouse in the residence while she had used the one next to their chamber.

She surveyed the unfamiliar, newly assigned chamber. Although not as grand and extravagant as the royal palace, the chamber provided to them at the royal residence in Xinling City was still impressive in its own right.

The chamber captivated her with its painted walls adorned with beautiful artwork. The intricate details of the paintings added a touch of elegance to the surroundings. The presence of sheer curtains billowing gently in the breeze, coupled with a resplendent chandelier suspended from the ceiling, exudes an air of luxury and regality throughout the chamber.

Due to the warmer climate of Xinling City in comparison to the capital, Yang Ning was relieved of the burden of heavy woolen garments. She could now freely wander in the chamber at night without the need for a shawl or the necessity of lighting a fire in the room before retiring to bed.

Xinling City was embraced by the serenity of water and lush greenery. From the chamber's balcony, Yang Ning could glimpse the enchanting shoreline nearby. Even in the darkness of the night, she could sense the presence of the beach, carried by the gentle cool breeze that caressed her skin.

The melodic symphony of the waves lapping against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack, creating a tranquil ambiance that enveloped her, leaving her feeling tranquil and at ease.

The allure of this place was simply awe-inspiring, leaving Yang Ning enchanted by its sheer magnificence.

However, what troubled her was the size of the bed in the chamber. In contrast to the spacious bed at the royal palace, this one was noticeably smaller.

While it could comfortably accommodate two individuals, she fretted over the limited amount of space that would remain between them while sleeping.

"How are we going to fit in this small bed?" Yang Ning sighed anxiously.

She gingerly sat on the edge of the bed, her fingertips gliding over the soft, silk bed sheets. A blush of embarrassment tinged her cheeks as she pondered how they would navigate the upcoming days in Xinling City.

"Why does it feel like we've come for our honeymoon?" She giggled at the mere thought, finding amusement in the situation.

___

"Has the Princess returned to the chamber yet?" Zheng Liang inquired of the guards stationed outside before entering.

"Yes, Your Highness. The Princess returned some time ago," the guard responded politely, acknowledging Zheng Liang's query.

Zheng Liang nodded and surveyed the surroundings before advising, "Do not remain stationed here during the night. Instead, position yourselves at the corner of the corridor, standing guard outside," he instructed the guards.

"Outside? Your Highness, we cannot do that. It wouldn't be safe," the guard insisted, voicing concerns about leaving their posts unattended.

They were not in the confines of the palace but rather in Xinling City, where maintaining their positions was crucial for safety and security.

Zheng Liang frowned and asserted, "No worries. You can still maintain your vigilance by positioning yourselves at the beginning of the corridor. Go and assume your new posts." He gestured for them to depart.

The guards exchanged covert glances, feeling apprehensive, yet they had no choice but to obey his orders and reluctantly moved away from their original positions.

A smirk formed on Zheng Liang's face as he observed the guards vacating their posts. He eagerly entered the chamber, aware that he finally had an opportunity to spend quality time with Yang Ning.

He refused to let this precious night go to waste and does not want to feel conscious of the guards guarding the chamber outside.

That is why he ordered them to move away from the chamber and stand at the start of the corridor to maintain a distance.

He doesn't want any more disturbances in his married life.

With a smile on his face, Zheng Liang pushed open the door to the chamber. However, as he stepped inside and closed the door behind him, he was taken aback by the scene that unfolded before his eyes, leaving him utterly stunned.

Zheng Liang's hopes were abruptly dampened as he witnessed Yang Ning, lying on the bed, lost in a deep sleep. It was evident that she had eagerly awaited his arrival, only to succumb to exhaustion and unknowingly doze off, leaving him to confront the reality of her unintended slumber.

Over the past few days, Yang Ning had been struggling to find restful sleep, plagued by fatigue due to the arduous journey and uncomfortable conditions. However, after having a satisfying dinner and indulging in a refreshing bath, she finally felt a sense of comfort and succumbed to a deep slumber.

With a sigh, Zheng Liang approached her side, his lips curling into a gentle smile at the sight of her peaceful sleep. Her long eyelashes delicately brushed her cheeks, concealing her eyes, while her rosy lips curved into a serene smile as if she were immersed in a blissful dream.

Her long, thick strands of hair spread across the pristine white pillow, with a few rebellious strands gently draping over her face, causing a mild disturbance.

Tenderly, he carefully tucked those strands behind her ears, his fingertips brushing against her skin, and lovingly caressed her cheeks. Leaning down, he pressed a gentle kiss upon her forehead, a tender gesture of affection and devotion.

"Today, you went to sleep early, but there won't be a next time," he whispered in a low, raspy voice into her ear. A mischievous smirk adorned his face as he noticed her groan in her sleep, the vibrations of his voice resonating through her slumbering form.

As she slumbered peacefully, he found himself thoroughly captivated by the sight of her sleeping form. Despite her unawareness, he delighted in observing her reactions to his words and gentle gestures, relishing the way she responded even in the depths of her sleep.

Seeing her sleeping in an uncomfortable position, he couldn't resist the urge to provide her with comfort. With gentle care, he tenderly adjusted her posture, helping her find a more peaceful position. Affectionately, he draped a cozy blanket over her, enveloping her in warmth and love.

After ensuring her comfort, he quietly made his way to the other side of the bed and slipped under the covers. With a gentle shift, he moved closer to her, yearning for their connection. He extended his arm, inviting her to nestle against him, embracing the warmth of their togetherness in the tranquil embrace of the night.

Gently, he turned her around, carefully positioning her head on his arm, ensuring her comfort as she slept.

Yang Ning emitted a soft groan in her slumber, prompting her to shift her position. She naturally turned around and nestled herself in his embrace, wrapping her arms around his waist and placing one leg over his.

She nestled her head against his chest, finding solace in his warmth and security, eventually succumbing to a peaceful slumber in his loving embrace.

Zheng Liang couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Yang Ning sleeping so peacefully and contentedly. However, her sleeping posture posed a challenge to his comfort, stealing away his restful night.

He pondered how he was supposed to find a comfortable position when she was so close to him, yet he couldn't act on his desires. With a deep breath, he embraced Yang Ning tightly, silently accepting the sweet torment of longing, and attempted to find sleep alongside her.

Taking a deep breath, he enveloped Yang Ning in a warm embrace, holding her close as they both sought rest.