Fifty Seven: Liu Feng's Olive Branch I

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The room, already a crucible of unspoken thoughts and feelings, seemed to pulse with renewed intensity as Jai Mei's gaze invited her other husbands to share in the moment of openness.

The air was thick with anticipation and a certain vulnerability that had been carefully tucked away until now.
Liu Feng, seizing the moment, voiced a question that seemed to weigh heavily on his heart.

"Do you truly mean what you say? That you will allow me to go to school as a scholar and divorce me with a dowry?"

His voice trembled slightly, betraying the depth of his vulnerability.

It was as if he was seeking not just confirmation but also reassurance from Jai Mei, much like a child might seek comfort from a mother.

Jai Mei, understanding the gravity of his question and the trust he was placing in her, replied with a warmth and certainty that enveloped the room.

"You're already a scholar; time just has to catch you up. And yes, don't worry. I will not abandon you and leave you with no means. I will make sure you have all that you need to set off in this life."

Her words, spoken with such conviction, seemed to act as a balm to the uncertainties that had lingered in the air.

It was a promise, a commitment to their well-being and future, that she was willing to uphold, demonstrating her resolve to ensure that each of her husbands would have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and find their own paths in life, even if it meant letting them go.

The moment Liu Feng whispered, "I'm trusting you, don't let me down," marked a pivotal shift in their relationship.

Rising from the lounge chair, he reached into his pocket, retrieving a letter that bore the marks of prolonged contemplation and anticipation of being held.

As he stood before Jai Mei, offering the letter with a hand that subtly trembled, their eyes met in a silent exchange of trust and vulnerability.

In that gaze, Liu Feng searched earnestly for any hint of insincerity, but found none.

Jai Mei's eyes reflected a clarity and calmness, reminiscent of a gentle breeze sweeping over verdant mountains—a soothing, unwavering presence and relief to those working the rice fields. It was a look that promised sincerity, support, and a commitment to their agreed future.

The realization that Jai Mei truly meant every word she had spoken was overwhelming for Liu Feng.

Tears, unbidden, traced paths down his cheeks as he acknowledged this truth aloud, "You really mean it."

His voice, laden with emotion, broke the lingering tension in the room, underscoring the gravity of their conversation and the depth of his relief and gratitude.

This exchange, simple yet profoundly meaningful, solidified a bond of trust between them.

It was a moment of acceptance and understanding, a mutual recognition of the sincerity in Jai Mei's promise and Liu Feng's willingness to embrace the future she was determined to secure for him.

Jai Mei, setting aside the letter for a moment, quickly attended to Liu Feng with a handkerchief, gently wiping away his tears.

"Yes, I mean it truly," she assured him, her hands cradling his face tenderly. "I'm sorry I held you back all this time, being selfish."

The sight of Liu Feng crying was profoundly impactful, akin to witnessing a rare comet streaking across the sky.

It pained Jai Mei to see such a strong individual brought to tears, revealing the depth of his suppressed emotions and the weight of the dreams he'd been forced to sideline.

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