The Song family's residence, bestowed by the Emperor, was a grand estate of four courtyards, meticulously maintained and beautiful.
The tail end of winter had not yet passed, yet the garden already hinted at spring. I led A Xiu, avoiding the bustling areas, and walked into a patch of shade cast by drooping willow trees. Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the willow leaves, dappling the ground with light and shadow.
A gentle breeze blew, making the willow branches sway. As they brushed past my face, they carried a fresh, green scent unique to plant life.
Ahead stood a stone table, a perfect spot to slack off.
"A Xiu, let's hide here for a while. When the banquet ends, we can bid farewell to Madam Song."
"Yes, and A Xiu will bring you something to eat. You hardly ate anything at the banquet just now."
"I had no appetite. However, those fruit wines were quite good."
"No, no, you are still recovering from your injury, you mustn't drink too much."
I chuckled, "What you call wine, I can barely consider it alcohol."
A Xiu turned to leave, "In any case, no alcohol."
Alas, this injury was truly a loss. I couldn't help but recall that assassin with exceptional martial arts. He should be gone by now. It was a pity, for even among assassins, his martial prowess was outstanding. Judging by his age, he had significant room for future improvement.
"What are you thinking about?"
A gentle voice suddenly sounded by my ear. I was startled and turned to see Situ Yao standing beside me, looking down at me.
I frowned slightly, "Why is Your Highness the Crown Prince here?"
"Looking for you." He bent down, moving closer. His deep eyes seemed to hold a pool of clear water, perfectly reflecting my face. A rich aroma of wine wafted into my nostrils. Seeing my slightly flushed cheeks, I tilted my head back and, unable to resist, swung my leg towards his calf. "If you want to talk, talk. Why are you so close to me?"
Was he trying to take advantage of my slight intoxication?
The Crown Prince dodged in time, tutting, "You're getting spicier."
"If you find me spicy, go over there." I pointed in the direction of the banquet. "There you can have as much gentleness as you want."
"But A Chun, you know I only have these feelings for you. Lately, Aunt Qing has been guarding me like a thief; it's even difficult for me to see you." His tone was full of grievance. If my mother were here, she might have softened.
I looked at him in surprise, "My mother's stance is so clear, and you haven't given up yet? Your Highness the Crown Prince has numerous admirers, all kinds of women, so why must you hang yourself on a crooked tree like me?"
Situ Yao burst into laughter, "I've never seen anyone call themselves a crooked tree before."
"None of your business?"
"Sister Shi Chun, are you here?"
Song Shuxian's voice called from the other side. Looking at Situ Yao, who was so close, my body suddenly stiffened. If people discovered her meeting Situ Yao in this secluded spot, would anyone believe them if they said it was a chance encounter?
Instinctively, I pushed him, "You should leave quickly."
Situ Yao also lowered his voice, "Why should I leave?"
"Not leave and wait to be discovered by others?"
"Isn't that perfect? Let them see us dating. Then, who would dare to consider you for a match in the future?" He emphasized the last two words with a hint of gritted teeth.
Me: "Shameless. Who is dating you?"
"Sister Shi Chun, I'm coming over!" Song Shuxian's voice came again, this time deliberately amplified. Situ Yao, however, suddenly spoke, "It is I."
"Your Highness the Crown Prince? You, what are you doing here?"
"I drank a few more cups during the banquet and came here for some fresh air."
"Does Your Highness require some sobering tea from this humble subject?"
"No need. I will leave after standing here for a while. Miss Song, you are the protagonist of today's event, so please attend to your duties."
"Your Highness the Crown Prince is too kind. You are the most honored guest of the Song family; taking care of you is what this subject should do."
Hearing the approaching footsteps, I quietly prepared to slip away, but Situ Yao's hand clasped my waist. He looked at me and said impatiently, "I wish to be alone."
Song Shuxian paused, looking wronged, "Then this subject will take her leave."
The footsteps gradually faded. I breathed a sigh of relief, "Your Highness the Crown Prince, how long do you intend to hold me?"
His hand was so warm that even through the thick layers of clothing, I could feel the heat at my waist. Situ Yao did not loosen his grip. "A Chun, I always thought I would ask Father Emperor for an imperial marriage decree after you agreed. I never imagined you would actually go for other suitors. A Chun, my patience is not as good as you think. If there is a next time, I will request Father Emperor to grant the marriage directly."