[Review & Spoiler] Male Lead, The Black-Hearted Lotus (Female-dominant)

At first, Xu Lu Cha viewed Zhang Meng with contempt, seeing her as just another foolish woman to manipulate. He schemed to use her connections to Zhong Huo.

However, Zhang Meng’s selfless actions began to chip away at his icy exterior. When she risked her life to save him from attackers, shielding him with her own body, Xu Lu Cha was stunned. Her warm smile and bright eyes as she told him to escape left him feeling conflicted. For the first time, he saw her as more than just a tool – she was someone capable of genuine kindness.

As they spent time together in the valley, Xu Lu Cha found himself increasingly drawn to Zhang Meng’s simple goodness. Her dedication to caring for him, despite her own injuries, stirred unfamiliar feelings. He was moved by how she always gave him the best food first, tended his wounds gently, and supported him as they walked. Her warm presence and radiant smile began to captivate him in ways he’d never experienced.

Soon, Xu Lu Cha was completely infatuated. He obsessively thought of Zhang Meng day and night, his heart racing whenever he saw her. Even small gestures from her filled him with joy. He began imagining a future together, determined to become worthy of her.

When Zhang Meng revealed she saw him only as a friend, Xu Lu Cha’s world shattered. Blind rage and despair consumed him. How dare she lead him on, showering him with affection only to cruelly reject him! His fragile heart, having dared to love for the first time, was crushed.

When he hears rumors that she might have feelings for someone else, intense jealousy and possessiveness flare up within him.

In a misguided and desperate attempt to bind Zhang Meng to him, Xu Lu Cha makes the terrible decision to drug her and force intimacy. This action, while clearly wrong, reveals the depth of his obsession and fear of losing her. Afterwards, he clings to her, begging her not to abandon him, his emotions spiraling out of control.

Zhang Meng’s reaction to this violation is one of intense fury and betrayal. She pushes Xu Lu Cha away forcefully, her eyes blazing with anger. She makes it clear that she will never forgive him for this betrayal. “I hate you,” she tells him, her words dripping with venom. “I will never, ever forgive you for this.”

In the days that follow, Zhang Meng refuses to see or speak to Xu Lu Cha. She turns her back on him when he tries to approach her at the yamen.

Xu Lu Cha falls into deep despair when Zhang Meng avoids him. He stops eating and sleeping, his health deteriorating rapidly. He stands outside the yamen for days, hoping for just a glimpse of her. His entire world has narrowed to revolve around Zhang Meng. Without her, he feels he has nothing left to live for.

Despite Xu Lu Cha’s suffering, Zhang Meng remains unmoved initially. Her anger and sense of betrayal are so profound that she doesn’t care about his condition.

It takes significant time and the intervention of others for Zhang Meng to even consider giving Xu Lu Cha another chance.

When she finally agrees to marry him, Xu Lu Cha is overwhelmed with joy and relief. He showers her with affection, wanting to please her in every way. He cooks for her, sews for her, and dotes on her constantly. His happiness at finally having her by his side knows no bounds.

Yet insecurity still plagues him. He worries Zhang Meng doesn’t truly love him, that she’ll leave him someday. On their wedding night, he puts on an elaborate dance, desperate to seduce her and consummate their marriage. When she hesitates, he feels crushed, fearing he’s not good enough.

As they settle into married life, Xu Lu Cha’s love only deepens. Simple moments like holding hands or sharing tea fill him with bliss. He cherishes Zhang Meng above all else, willing to sacrifice anything for her happiness. When he discovers her jade pendant may link her to a dangerous past, he vows to protect her at all costs. He would rather face any danger himself than let harm come to her.

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