Su Yurou’s thoughts aligned closely with the Crown Prince’s.
Throughout the entire court, who didn’t know that the Regent King always meant what he said? Yun Qingqing was only setting herself up for embarrassment—hardly a threat.
A mocking sneer flashed in her eyes.
However, after a moment of contemplation, Xiao Changheng said:
“Very well. Although the betrothal gifts borrowed from the Crown Prince’s Residence are lavish, they still fall short of what my Qingqing deserves. I need time to add a few more.”
“Since Qingqing likes it, let’s set the wedding date for the eighth day of next month.”
What??
Everyone could hardly believe their ears!
The Crown Prince’s betrothal gifts were not good enough for Yun Qingqing?
And with just a casual remark from her, the Regent King changed the wedding date??
This was practically lifting her to the heavens!
Xiao Zirui’s expression nearly cracked as he exclaimed in shock:
“Imperial Uncle, this…”
“Hmm? Does the Crown Prince have an issue with my decision?”
The seemingly agreeable prince had instantly reverted to the formidable figure who never tolerated dissent.
“Uh… I dare not…” A chill ran down Xiao Zirui’s spine, forcing him to swallow his words.
Seeing even the Crown Prince retreat in defeat, the Su family members could only hold back, not daring to utter a single word.
Just then, a guard behind Xiao Changheng whispered:
“Your Highness, the item has been retrieved.”
He nodded lightly. “Bring it in.”
Soon, the guard brought in a Great Cape, which Xiao Changheng took.
“Qingqing, come here.” He extended his large hand toward her.
Yun Qingqing didn’t understand his intention, but with so many people watching, she thought for a moment and walked over, placing her hand in his.
But with a gentle tug from Xiao Changheng, she stumbled toward him.
“Hey, you…” Yun Qingqing couldn’t help but gasp softly.
“Don’t move.” Xiao Changheng squeezed her icy little hand, frowning as he draped the Great Cape over her shoulders. Only then did his expression soften slightly.
The Emperor stared wide-eyed. His younger brother had always been aloof—when had he ever treated a woman like this?
“Your Majesty, Qingqing is frail, and today she fell into the water. She needs proper rest. If there’s nothing else, I’ll escort her back,” Xiao Changheng said calmly.
The stunned Emperor finally snapped back to reality:
“Ahem… Very well, take care on your way, Imperial Brother!”
“Wait a moment,” the Empress said with a kindly smile. “It seems Imperial Brother truly cherishes Miss Qingqing. I’m delighted that you’ve found a good match.”
As she spoke, she removed the Suet-Warm Jade Bracelet from her wrist and handed it to her chief maid:
“Here, this is a small greeting gift from me to Qingqing. May you and Imperial Brother share a lifetime of happiness.”
Su Yurou lowered her head, suppressing the jealousy burning in her eyes.
Damn that ugly wretch! If it weren’t for her meddling today, the Empress’s priceless bracelet should have been hers!
Just wait—today’s humiliation would be repaid with interest sooner or later!
…
A short while later, Phoenix Nest Palace.
“Yesterday, Yun Qingqing was still insisting on marrying the Crown Prince. How did she manage to latch onto the Regent King today?” The Empress frowned deeply, utterly perplexed. “And that man is actually willing to marry her?”
“Your Majesty, this is a good thing,” her chief maid Lan Rui said with a smile. “Although Yun Qingqing is the descendant of a meritorious official, her father, the Zhenyuan Marquis, died in service long ago. Her mother suffers from Wooden Rigidity Syndrome and has long been a living corpse.”
“Originally, you were worried that the Regent King would marry a Princess Consort with a powerful background, making him even harder to deal with. Now, you needn’t worry anymore!”
The Empress’s brow smoothed, and she nodded:
“Indeed. Seeing Yun Qingqing today, she is even uglier than the rumors say. The Regent King actually still wants to marry her—it seems he has lost all hope and given up on himself.”
Satisfied, she took a sip of tea and leisurely ordered:
“Summon the State Preceptor to see me.”
It was time for the next step.
…
Yun Qingqing, wrapped in a Great Cape that nearly dragged on the ground, left the palace and boarded the Regent’s Mansion carriage. Only then did she say with a smile:
“Thank you for your cooperation today, Your Highness. Working with you is quite pleasant. Now that there are no outsiders, I can return this to you.”
Thinking the Great Cape was something the man had brought specifically for appearances, she reached to take it off and return it.
“Not allowed!” Xiao Changheng’s brow furrowed, and he accurately grabbed the fur collar of the Great Cape, wrapping her tightly again.
Yun Qingqing looked at his displeased expression and was momentarily stunned.
But before she could say anything more, she suddenly felt the world spin around her. The man’s cold, noble face flickered before her eyes.
Damn it—her soul had just crossed over, and the original host’s body was weak. This was a sign of Spiritual Soul Instability!
She estimated she could hold on for at most five breaths, but where could she find a Yang-Energy Rich Spiritual Object for Soul Stabilization in such a short time…
Got it!
“What’s wrong with you?” Xiao Changheng sensed her unusual state and asked with a furrowed brow.
Yun Qingqing struggled to raise her hand, resting it on his shoulder:
“Your Highness… help me… forgive my offense!”
Without further thought, she cupped his face, leaned in close, and pressed her lips against his, drawing in a breath.
The man’s unfocused dark eyes widened abruptly, and his entire body stiffened in place.