Hearing Bai Yaoyaos angry tone, Duan Yanhaos heart felt as though it had been scratched.

Dont be angry. I wanted to send you back for the new year.

Yanhao, youre still coming up with such an excuse now?

Duan Yanhao sighed quietly and replied, Fine. That night, I heard news about the battle with the southern troops. It was too sudden, and I wasnt prepared yet. Under such circumstances, I couldnt just keep you in Country X. Youll be safe if you go to Country A, and Ill feel assured too.

But havent you thought about what would happen to me if youre in danger?

Duan Yanhao was rendered speechless by Bai Yaoyaos incessant interrogation. A moment later, he answered, I just wanted you to be safe and sound. I didnt think so much back then.

Bai Yaoyao wanted to throw a tantrum at him, but seeing how frail and weak Duan Yanhao looked, she couldnt bear to do it.

She hit his chest as she said, Dont ever do this again. No matter where you go, bring me along. I want to be with you even if it means that well die.

Those words were what Bai Yaoyao truly felt deep down. She had said it casually, but it affected Duan Yanhao strongly. His heart shuddered along with his body.

Bai Yaoyao sincerely wanted to fight to the death with him. He believed her without a doubt too.

Otherwise, why would she, a mere lady, risk her life to come and look for him? Such a feat required a lot of courage.

The Duan family was a military household. In the past, his forefathers had selected dainty ladies as their wives. They were usually loving, but during battles, they took off with their expensive jewelry without a single word.

They had trained with the troops and possessed great skills. But on the night of battle, right when their skills were most needed, they had escaped instead.

Therefore, he had always thought that women ought to be protected instead. They werent people to fight alongside him. They could enjoy the fine things in life, but they couldnt suffer together with their husbands.

In the end, he met a woman that was an exception. She was Chi Jiaojiao. She was strong and charismatic, and he respected and admired her greatly.

She was also the first woman that he liked, so he didnt object to their marriage alliance.

However, Bai Yaoyao seemed to be a bigger surprise to him now. His cold eyes glinted clearly. While feeling surprised, his heart also ached for her.

Yaoyao, Im so lucky to have met you.

Duan Yanhao said those words out of nowhere, so Bai Yaoyao couldnt comprehend immediately. Yanhao, what happened? You havent answered me. You have to bring me along in the future and cannot just desert me, alright? Dont you know that when I was falling off the cliff, my only regret was not being able to see you again before I die?

Im sorry, Yaoyao. Im sorry. Ill bring you along in the future.

Thats right. You have to. I can fight with you. If we fight together, I dont have to think about what you were going through. I dont have to feel afraid and worried. I couldnt even sleep peacefully, and I was always anxious about your well-being.

As Duan Yanhao listened, his heart ached. She was the woman that he wanted to protect, yet he eventually made her suffer with him. Yaoyao, its all my fault.

Its not your fault. Its because of the war. I came out here this time so that we can defeat the southern troops together and unify Country X. Bai Yaoyaos words sounded dominating. Even though she was injured, she still appeared strong and charismatic.