Hibiscus as a Painting

Chapter 125

From then on, all you wanted was to have him.

You want to possess him, not just his body, but also his heart.

I called out softly, "Hello."

You desire to possess him, disregarding the laws of the court and the common people.

I called out softly, "Hello."

You want to have him, even if it means giving and being betrayed.

...

A fleeting glimpse outside the imperial city, and your eyes are only for him.

All I could see was sorrow.

Can't you hear my gentle words to you?

Can't you feel the warmth of my palm?

Is my voice too harsh? Or is my hands just not sensitive enough?

Did you know that when you stood against the assembled ministers, I was always supporting you by the arms?

Do you know that while you toil day and night, I've been burning the midnight oil for you every night?

Did you know that I've been standing silently behind you all this time?

I am behind you, in the place closest to you physically, yet furthest from your heart.

I love you, not because your surname is Nalan, not because of your kingdom, but simply because you are you.

Why don't you love me? Is it because my surname is Sikou? Is it because of the family behind me?

And that spirited general, do you love him?

You broke that bird's wing. Do you love it?

You ruined his young and brilliant life. Did you love him?

Do you love him? Are you captivated by his youthful energy? Or do you simply yearn for freedom?

...

A "hello" was said...

Can you hear me this time?

A "hello" was said...

Did you turn around and look at me when I called out?

I love you, and I cherish everything about you without any regrets.

I love you, even if you don't love me, even if you hurt me deeply.

I love you, even if it means losing everything I've painstakingly built, even if it means giving my life.

...

But why did you suddenly disappear? Where did you go?

Who...who are you? Why am I searching for you? Why don't I remember you?

Who are you, that ethereal figure in my dream?

Who are you, that elusive figure in my dreams?

Is that smiling woman you?

Is that gentle and graceful woman you?

Nan'er, is this stunningly beautiful woman you?

Is that you? Have you come back to me?

Is she you, my Nan'er? Then this time I will definitely hold your hand tightly.

Is she you, my Nan'er? Then please don't stray too far from me this time.

...

I think I've finally found you, Nan'er, but who is calling out now?

"Brother, where have you gone?"

"Brother, Jin'er will not be willful anymore."

"Brother, don't abandon Jin'er, don't abandon Jin'er."

Tell me, whose voice is this? Who is so reluctant to part? So heartbroken?

My Nan'er, why does my heart tremble? Why do I feel such unease at this voice?

It seemed as if a woman was softly calling in my ear, "Brother..."

Brother...do you still remember Jin'er? Do you still want Jin'er?