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IT WASN'T DIFFICULT being naoya's favorite. after all, hanako just had to embody all the qualities of a perfect wife, at all times.

     don't speak unless spoken to.

     don't look up unless permitted to.

     don't eat unless he is seated and has started to dine.

     don't embarrass yourself and uphold a sophisticated image at all times, especially out in public.

     while there were many other details that must be abided to, the most important one was to birth an heir — not heiress.

     rigorous, some might think.

     although to hanako, who has kept naoya's affection for so many years, it was a piece of cake.

     "hanako, how does this robe look on me?", naoya questioned, for it was the custom robe made for the new emperor.

     "just wonderful, my lord. navy blue really is your color", hanako complimented, as the servants slowly started exiting the room upon their own self-awareness.

naoya boastfully grinned, as he neared the woman who's attire had also upgraded upon being named the emperor's most adored concubine.

"you always know what to say".

"I'm simply speaking what's on my mind", the woman smoothly replied.

naoya's hand gently caressed his fourth wife's cheek, his eyes scanning her face for any imperfections.

"you'll stand beside me, won't you?"

hanako wrapped her nimble hands around her husband's wrist whilst leaning her face deeper into his palm.

"I cannot, my lord. after all...I'm just—"

"after the crowning ceremony, the first thing I'll do is make you empress", naoya stated.

hanako smiled, not showing her teeth because that wouldn't be ladylike.

"I don't mind, my lord. as long as I can stay by your side, I'd be happy even if I'm just your mistress".

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     AUTHOR'S NOTE: repenting my sins rn :')