Bab 413: 413: The visit

"Don't say things like that, Yunjin. I came here to meet you first, your guard second, and your friend third. Will you send me back without even talking to me? After all, it has been a week since we last met."

The older man made a pitiful face that should not invoke sympathy in anyone. But it still touched Yunjin's heart and her resolve ever.

Yunjin was acutely aware of her vulnerability in the presence of the duke, the man who had nurtured her and her brother. The tumultuous mix of love and fear waged a fierce battle within her, leaving her feeling utterly trapped.

But in that moment, her logical mind snapped into action, reminding Yunjin of the Duke's skill in deception and his penchant for inflicting emotional turmoil. He was toying with her, manipulating her into feeling unwarranted guilt to gain access to Sui.