Cui Hongxiao followed Wanqing, initially thinking that the young master would be difficult to deal with. Not only was his aloof demeanor intimidating, but the reputation of his princely household was also daunting. She had expected her actions to provoke his displeasure, but unexpectedly, Miss Mu’s words managed to lead her away.
As they turned to leave, the young master, in a rare moment, reprimanded his younger brother.
“Miss Mu, I truly thank you. If not for you, I fear today would have been… Just now, when you confronted the young master, it frightened me so much… *panting*…”
Now, as Cui Hongxiao walked with Wanqing along the stone path toward Prince Ning’s side, she watched as Wanqing released her hand. Recalling Wanqing’s composed demeanor and even her bold warning to the young master, Cui Hongxiao couldn’t help but admire her courage and sincerity. Though she had stopped walking, she patted her chest and exhaled deeply, still shaken.
“Hehe, Sister Cui, you must have only heard rumors about him. In truth, he’s not so bad—just a bit arrogant, but still reasonable enough. It’s alright now. Look at you, your face is still pale. If you don’t mind, why not join us for a stroll? Later, we can all go together to congratulate the Grand Princess on her birthday.”
Despite her lingering fear, Cui Hongxiao’s delicate face broke into a rare, innocent smile. Wanqing couldn’t help but chuckle, sharing her own thoughts about the cold and aloof Leng Mingye. Then, considering the troubles Cui Hongxiao might face alone, she extended an invitation.
“Of course! I’ve been frail since childhood and just returned to the capital from the countryside. I haven’t really met anyone yet—you’re the first to help me. You wouldn’t believe it, but earlier, I ran all the way here, and though people saw me, no one paid me any mind. I…”
Cui Hongxiao spoke cheerfully, her words flowing freely as she recounted her earlier ordeal, her expression still tinged with unease.
“With me around, no one will dare trouble you. Relax. Brother Ning, Young Master Song, we’re back…”
Wanqing observed that despite being two or three years older, Cui Hongxiao had an air of purity and unworldly grace. Her beauty was on par with Wanqing’s own, which explained why that scoundrel Leng Minghao had pursued her so relentlessly.
At this close distance, Wanqing suddenly noticed that aside from her lower status, Cui Hongxiao carried herself with a poise and restraint that reminded her of Prince Ning. The more they spoke, the more the resemblance struck her.
Aside from her lack of guardedness, her entire demeanor was strikingly similar.
With a gentle smile, Wanqing reassured her before casually linking arms. Cui Hongxiao shyly returned the gesture, and together they approached Prince Ning and Song Ziqian, who regarded them with puzzled expressions. Wanqing laughed lightly.
“Yes, we’re back. Who would’ve thought that once Miss Mu takes action, she does so decisively… Hehe, I got carried away.”
Wanqing’s relaxed laughter and familiarity with the group made Cui Hongxiao beam with excitement. Only when she noticed everyone staring did she realize she had forgotten her usual restraint. Flushing, she quickly composed herself and apologized sheepishly.
“Hehe, Sister Cui, you seem naturally cheerful. We’re all kindred spirits here—no one will laugh at you. Look at me, I’m plenty mischievous myself, right, Brother Ning? Speaking of which, your birthday is in two days. Why don’t we all visit your estate to celebrate?”
Wanqing teased, noting Cui Hongxiao’s outgoing and unreserved nature, which contrasted with the usual decorum around these people. As if setting an example, she leaned playfully against Prince Ning’s wheelchair, resting a hand on his shoulder with a sly grin.
“You imp, always so bold. Fine, since you’ve said so, how could I refuse? Everyone is welcome then. Young Master Sun, since you’re here as well, there’s something I must make clear. We’re all Qing’er’s friends. If you truly wish to pursue her, first resolve matters with her elder sister. Otherwise, it’ll only cause trouble for all three of you. Don’t you agree?”
Prince Ning felt a warmth in his heart at his sister’s carefree demeanor around others. Their bond brought him great comfort—he had feared she might resent him for recognizing her earlier but not acknowledging her. Yet she held no grudge, instead understanding and even looking out for him.
How could he not adore such a clever and spirited sister?
With a rare chuckle, he lightly tapped her forehead. Wanqing feigned pain, ducking away with a pout, and he smiled before turning to Sun Fengyu, who stood awkwardly on the sidelines.
“I… Your Highness, rest assured, I will settle matters between her elder sister and me. But Qing’er refuses to give me a chance, I…”
Sun Fengyu’s frustration was palpable. Recalling their last encounter at the marquis’s estate—his desperate confession, her cold rejection, and now her complete indifference—he sighed dejectedly as Song Ziqian and the others watched.
“If you want a chance, reflect on what you’ve done wrong. Your relentless pestering only breeds annoyance. Let’s go elsewhere. Brother Ning, Young Masters Song and Wang, why not greet the others? We’ll pay our respects to Princess Qingyang and return shortly.”
Wanqing couldn’t hide her disdain for Sun Fengyu’s pitiful act. His ulterior motives, his aggressive advances after her refusal, and his harsh words still rankled.
Not wanting to make a scene, she spoke coolly before gathering Song Meiling, Qian Yuying, and Cui Hongxiao. The four women, accompanied by their maids, headed toward the female guests’ area.
“Let’s greet the others as well.”
Since the lake excursion was proceeding as usual, Prince Ning considered the separate receptions—the Grand Princess hosting the ladies, while her husband entertained the gentlemen.
Nodding at Wanqing and the others as they departed, he led the remaining group toward the consort’s side.
“Yu’er, rise. It’s rare to see you today. Please, take a seat…”
When Prince Ning presented his birthday gift, the consort, delighted by his presence—rare since his injury three years prior—helped him sit with warm hospitality.
Meanwhile, Wanqing, accompanied by her elder sister Mu Wanqing, who represented the marquis’s household in presenting gifts to the Grand Princess, navigated the event with ease, having attended such gatherings before.
After the formalities, their father remained with the older gentlemen, drinking with the consort and his peers, while the ladies, including the noblewomen, dined separately.
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