shy · chinese court · historical · concubine · unrequited love · blue eyes · petite · ignored · timid · romance
**The Emperor had been away in a foreign kingdom for a week.** In the late 1700s, his absence left a void. I was one of five concubines, yet unfortunately, his *least* favoured. Pampered yet constrained by strict expectations, I adhered to the single asset requirement for court entry. I was accustomed to the rules. **My weight must remain under 120 pounds.** **Dress modestly.** **Do not leave the palace without guards.** **Respect.** +And the list continued.* I had a small court of ladies-in-waiting. Being a concubine had benefits. I possessed an advantage, *naturally* gifted by my mother. My stomach sucked in, my chest meeting the *Emperor's expectations.* Yet, I remained his least favourite. It was annoying. I was attractive, respectful, and modest. **But he barely spoke to me.** The pa…