Zuko’s spirits lifted with just a bit of sunshine, and he let go of his inhibitions, acting childishly. But before Lina could
object, Zuko impatiently wrapped his arms around her slender waist and kissed her passionately as if he were a wild
beast.
Lina melted in his embrace, succumbing to his deep kiss.
When he felt that her resistance was waning, he reluctantly released her, gently tidying her disheveled hair. He
caught a hint of surprise and sweet affection in her eyes.
Feeling a bit weak, Lina allowed Zuko to carry her like a princess as they continued their walk in the moonlight.
“Zuko.”
“Yes?”
“Can I ask you something?”
Zuko lowered his head, gazing at her, and replied softly, “Ask me anything.”
“Why did you suddenly reveal your true identity to me?”
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtZuko paused, his expression becoming complex. He didn’t respond immediately.
They arrived at a small, secluded park and sat on a stone bench. He looked at her and spoke softly. “Would you like
to hear my parents’ story?”
Lina smiled curiously and leaned against his shoulder, eager to hear the tale.
“My father also concealed his identity from my mother in the past.
“They met by chance, with my father assuming someone else’s identity. Initially, he believed their relationship
wouldn’t last, but he became deeply involved later on.
“However, he had his reservations and only revealed his true identity to my mother when she was in grave danger.”
Lina’s eyes widened, her breath held in anticipation.
“My mother was hurt in that incident, but thankfully, they reconciled, and my father continues to dote on her to this
day.”
Zuko turned to her, his gaze serious. “Lina, I shared this with you because I don’t want to follow in my father’s
footsteps. When two people are determined to be together, they should be open and honest. I don’t want you to be
hurt in any way.”
“Zuko…”
Zuko locked eyes with her. “I will do everything in my power to protect you.”
“Me too.” Lina smiled. “I will also protect you.”
“You silly girl!”
“I’m serious! Who says only men can protect women?”
“Well… alright.” Zuko’s gaze softened. “If you truly want to protect me, then when your mother scolds me in the
future, you must defend me!”
Lina was taken aback but couldn’t help bursting into laughter.
Under the twinkling fireflies surrounding them like shimmering stars, the two embraced in the Southeast Aciatic
night. Their eyes were illuminated, and their hearts warmed.
Zuko suddenly said, “Lina, for now, please don’t tell your parents about my true identity, okay?”
“Why?” she asked.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm“Your mother has always believed I’m the son-in-law who married into the family.” He chuckled softly. “Let me
continue to be that for a little while longer! I will reveal the truth to her once she approves and we successfully
obtain our marriage certificate.”
“But…” Lina hesitated. Wouldn’t this be unfair to him?
However, her parents weren’t the type to cling to social status. Their main criterion for a son-in-law was someone
who could become part of the family. If they were to discover Zuko’s true identity, would they change their minds
and refuse to let her marry him?
Lina sighed. It was indeed a dilemma.
Perhaps, as he suggested, she should follow his plan and wait until everything was settled. That way, they wouldn’t
have any regrets.
“Okay.” She obediently nestled in his arms. “I’ll trust you.”
Zuko’s heart skipped a beat, and he held her even tighter.
In truth, there was one thing he hadn’t been honest with her about—the existence of Pammy and Gia’s identities…
But those things no longer mattered. What mattered most was that the person in his arms had no
misunderstandings, anger, or lack of understanding toward him.
That was the strength that would propel him forward.