Chapter 124 Do you even believe what you're saying?

What! Yuan Zaichun had never imagined that such a seemingly trivial cloak could hold such importance. Only then did he realize why Qiao Qingyun, originally so composed and steady, had lost control and slapped him.

Putting himself in her shoes, if someone had thrown her mother’s belongings to the ground—even if the Empress were still alive—he would have made that person regret it deeply.

“Qingyun... I...”

“Silence.”

Qiao Qingyun’s voice was icy, her eyes brimming with disappointment. “You have never changed.”

No matter how long Yuan Zaichun had cared for her, no matter how often he habitually came here, he remained a reckless and spoiled son of privilege.

“That’s not true... please listen to me...”

“I don’t want to hear it! Leave, now!”

Qiao Qingyun pointed sharply toward the direction he had come from, scolding him. Yuan Zaichun clenched his fists, knowing it was pointless to stay. With a reluctant glance at Zhong Shi, full of apology, he turned to Qiao Qingyun, only to find she didn’t even bother to meet his gaze.

“Fine.”

With those words, Yuan Zaichun seemed drained of all strength. He turned and left, lacking the courage even to look back.

“Princess.”

Zhong Shi approached from behind, placing a hand gently on Qiao Qingyun’s shoulder in comfort. Unexpectedly, Qiao Qingyun, wanting nothing more than to cry on someone’s shoulder, turned and buried herself in Zhong Shi’s arms.

The man stiffened, incredulous at first, but when her tears soaked his chest, he realized it was real.

He hurriedly patted her back soothingly. “Don’t cry.”

“They’re all bullying me...” Qiao Qingyun mumbled pitifully, tears streaming freely.

Since Bu Shenglian’s return, her every step had become a struggle. Even though she was now a princess, what did it matter?

It changed nothing about the fact that so many targeted her.

After regaining some composure, Qiao Qingyun wiped her tears off with her sleeve, forcing a faint smile. “We’ve been out too long. If my uncle sends someone to look for us, that won’t be good. Let’s go back.”

Zhong Shi, always obedient to her commands, nodded. He even touched his tear-wetted clothes with a hint of fondness.

He’d never thought any garment was important before, but from this moment on, this one could never be washed—it was a treasure.

Back at their seats, the Emperor noticed Qiao Qingyun’s red-rimmed eyes and saw Zhong Shi’s return. He was puzzled, then suddenly remembered Yuan Zaichun had stepped out earlier. Something must have happened among them.

Bu Shenglian’s gaze flickered repeatedly toward Yuan Zaichun, hoping to draw attention but unintentionally discovering that Yuan Zaichun’s eyes were fixed on Qiao Qingyun.

This ignited her jealousy even more.

Who wouldn’t resent seeing the man they loved look upon another with such deep affection?

“Since today is to welcome the Young Master of Lu Kingdom, I wonder if he is betrothed? If not, I could arrange a match for you,” the Emperor said with a gentle smile, a kindly demeanor masking his true intent.

As the ruler, every action had a purpose, especially when dealing with a powerful nation like Lu. Both countries were evenly matched; a marriage alliance would only strengthen ties.

Zhong Shi was momentarily stunned, silent. He glanced at Hong Ying, who widened her eyes in alarm.

No way, right? Could her brother be trying to avoid an imperial marriage by marrying her off instead?

As the Emperor’s intention became clear, many ministers began eyeing their daughters, eager to volunteer.

Marrying a foreign young master could mean becoming the future national mother of Lu Kingdom—a stroke of great fortune!

“Thank you for the honor, Your Majesty, but Zhong Shi has always cherished his freedom. Aside from serving close to the princess, he does not wish to be disturbed by others,” Zhong Shi replied respectfully, standing and clasping his fists.

His words stirred a storm, once again drawing enmity toward Qiao Qingyun.

She helplessly covered her forehead. Good heavens, even having two attendants from Lu Kingdom was enough to cause trouble?

“Oh? So the Young Master of Lu Kingdom fancies my niece?” the Emperor raised an eyebrow, somewhat displeased. After all, Qiao Qingyun had only just been brought back; he would hate to see her sent far away.

Yuan Zaichun was equally tense, unsure why. It had been a transaction from the start, yet day after day spent together, he found himself unable to retract his feelings.

“Yes.”

In front of everyone, Zhong Shi responded without hesitation, leaving Qingluo dumbfounded.

This is over... surely disaster is coming?

She had been Qiao Qingyun’s subordinate before, and now this would only bring calamity to their princess.

“Ah...” The Emperor stroked his beard and glanced at Qiao Qingyun, intending to ask her thoughts. Instead, he saw her wishing she could disappear.

This amused him greatly. Many would leap at such an opportunity.

“Unfortunately, you know what my niece has endured. She has just returned to my side, and now you want to take her away. Tell me, how could I consent to that?”

At these words, Qiao Qingyun almost jumped up to applaud.

What a strong leg to lean on! She must hold on tight!

Yet, the next moment...

“Zhong Shi is not asking Your Majesty to arrange a marriage between the princess and himself right now. He only hopes to be allowed to remain by her side as before, to protect her. It has become a habit he cannot break.”

The Emperor: ...

Qiao Qingyun: ...

Yuan Zaichun: ...

Do you believe that yourself?

If agreed to, wouldn’t it be inviting a wolf into the fold?

Qiao Qingyun sighed and tapped her forehead, utterly exasperated. She had never encountered such a predicament.

“Well... Qingyun? What do you think?”

“Huh? Qingyun has no objections. As long as uncle arranges it, Qingyun will agree.”

There was no escaping anyway.

Might as well surrender gracefully.

Qiao Qingyun’s resigned attitude thrilled Zhong Shi, who stared excitedly at her delicate face.

So... his princess had accepted him?

She didn’t see him as a burden?

“Good. Since that is settled, I cannot offend your dignity. Let us proceed as the Young Master of Lu Kingdom wishes. It must be difficult for you.”

“Not at all. Serving beside the princess is the greatest honor from Your Majesty,” Zhong Shi replied respectfully and performed a formal kowtow to the Emperor.

Although young masters from neighboring countries were not required to kneel, Zhong Shi’s gesture signified his recognition of the Emperor, which was advantageous for all.

“Excellent, ha ha ha. Now that the matter of the Young Master is resolved, Princess?”

Hong Ying: ...

I want to run away so badly, but I can’t escape.