Amy_Sage

Forced to marry the feared Shadow King, Ping dreads a life of misery. Rumored to be a ruthless killer, Ling is a man no one dares to cross. But as she gets to know him, she begins to question everything—Is he truly a monster, or has the world been wrong about him all along?

The shadow king

The palace had been quieter than usual over the past few days. Everyone moved with careful steps, their voices hushed as they passed the queen's chambers. Ling had barely left Ping's side, his sharp eyes watching over her like a hawk.

On the fourth morning, just as the sun began to rise, Ping stirred. Her eyelashes fluttered open, and for the first time in days, the burning fever was gone. She felt weak, but her mind was clear.

Before Mei could even move, Ling was already at her side, helping her sit up carefully. He grabbed the cup from the bedside table and held it to her lips. "Drink."

Ping took small sips, her throat dry from days of fever. When she finished, she leaned back against the pillows and looked at Ling.

"You stayed," she said, her voice still hoarse.

Ling scoffed. "Of course, I stayed. Did you think I'd let you die that easily?"

Despite his cold tone, there was warmth in his eyes.

Ping smiled weakly. "I feel… better."

"The fever broke last night," Mei said, stepping forward with relief clear on her face. "You scared us all, my lady."

Ping's gaze softened. "I'm sorry for worrying everyone."

Mei shook her head. "No, just focus on getting your strength back."

Ling crossed his arms. "The physician said you need proper meals. No more skipping them."

Ping rolled her eyes. "I wasn't skipping meals on purpose."

Ling raised an eyebrow. "Then eat."

Mei quickly brought over a bowl of warm broth, and to everyone's relief, Ping didn't refuse. She ate slowly, but she finished most of it, which was enough to satisfy Ling for now.

After the meal, Ling sat beside her, watching as she leaned back with a sigh. He reached out, brushing his fingers lightly over her wrist.

"You scared me," he admitted quietly.

Ping blinked in surprise. It wasn't like Ling to be so open about his feelings.

Ling nodded, his grip tightening just slightly before he stood. "Good. Rest more."

As he turned to leave, Ping called after him. "Ling."

He didn't say anything, but the way his shoulders relaxed told her he had heard.

Ping closed her eyes, feeling warmth spread through her chest. For the first time in days, she felt truly at peace.

A Queen's Recovery