More Than One Monster

Li Minghua didn't want to believe it but her father had never lied to her before. However, some things were simply too hard to accept. 

The Second Prince was manipulative and loved to gaslight her, she knew that much, but like a butterfly caught in a spider's web, the more she struggled, the faster she died.

Duke Li Shenyang reached out and fondly patted the back of her head, surprising her. 

"You've endured many hardships in the Imperial Palace. I was unable to save you in time, forgive me, dear girl," he said.

Li Minghua blinked back the tears, her vision grew blurry. Her father had never caressed her like this. He was always cold towards her. She didn't know what to say. Was this a coercion technique?

Duke Li Shenyang opened his mouth and spoke again. "Whether you choose to believe my words or not, you must understand one thing: I always have your best interest in mind. Every sane parent would want their child to succeed."