beta
I was curious about the ML's identity due to comments, so I looked it up:
It turns out the ML is the 8th prince. He's been in love with her since their first meeting, but he felt unworthy and wanted to become emperor to be worthy of her love. He also sought revenge against the FL in the first timeline.
Honestly, I'm not sure how to feel about this revelation. While the spoilers suggest he may not be entirely bad and has his own suffering, part of me wishes for a different ML for her. She deserves someone who hasn't caused her so much pain.
I understand that the ML went through hardships too, but the FL suffered a lot as well. The neglect from their previous marriage has left deep scars on her. I believe she deserves a chance to heal and find someone unrelated to her past, someone who won't betray or harm her. Some things can't be easily forgiven, even with heartfelt apologies. This is why I struggle with stories like "Abandoned Empress," for example :(