Fuyi nodded. The princess consort continued, "I have already sent for people from Chunxiu Pavilion to make you two new outfits in time. Lingyun Pavilion has also sent a new hair crown. I think the quality is excellent, just right for wearing at the banquet."

  She beckoned Fuyi forward and tidied his collar with a motherly touch. "Last time, Bai Qingqing sent over some fragrance called 'Spring Grace.' I found it quite pleasant. If you see her, ask her to send some more."

  "Yi'er, you are my son. I always hope for the best for you. The eldest daughter of the Duke of England has been raised with great care. She is inexperienced in worldly matters, simple in nature, and the most suitable wife for you. You won’t disappoint your mother, will you?"

  Fuyi lowered his head and listened quietly. His mother had said these same words to him in his past life. Bai Qingqing was indeed said to be na?ve and pure, and she truly was. Her admiration for him had always been open and passionate.

  Yet, Fuyi could never forget how she had fallen in love with him at first sight—it had all been meticulously planned. The more ardently Bai Qingqing expressed her feelings, the more he wanted to escape. Every time he saw her, he was reminded that his position as heir had only been secured through marriage ties with the Bai family.

  That subtle feeling made Fuyi unable to respond to Bai Qingqing. He would rather take on official duties outside, hoping that once he had achieved success and could break free from the prince’s household, he would make up for his neglect toward Qingqing.

  But heaven had taken away that chance.

  This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

  Fuyi left the princess consort’s courtyard in silence. He had not walked far when a clear, crisp voice called out, "Cousin."

  Lifting his gaze, he saw Lu Qingyun walking gracefully toward him. She was dressed in a fresh, light green spring outfit, her hair adorned with a pearl hairpin, from which delicate tassels swayed gently with her steps. She moved like a breath of spring breeze.

  Upon reaching him, Lu Qingyun smiled sweetly. "Cousin, you just came from Aunt’s place? Why didn’t you wait for me? The plum blossoms in the garden have bloomed even more today. Will you accompany me for a walk later?"

  She reached out, as she used to when they were children, to hold Fuyi’s arm. Fuyi subtly avoided her touch. "I have matters to attend to. Next time."

  Lu Qingyun’s eyes flickered slightly, but her smile remained unchanged. "I heard that the Duke of England’s mansion is hosting a flower appreciation banquet. Cousin, you’ll be attending, won’t you? I often hear people say that the young lady of the Bai family is stunningly beautiful. I wonder if it’s true—I’d love to see for myself."

  Fuyi glanced at her. "The rumors about Miss Bai are not exaggerated, but it’s improper to discuss people behind their backs."

  "Oh... I was careless."

  Lu Qingyun was momentarily taken aback, then stuck out her tongue playfully, looking charming and innocent. Yet, the light in her eyes dimmed.

  To hear "not exaggerated" from her cousin’s own mouth, and to have him correct her for that girl’s sake—Lu Qingyun felt a pang of unease. Could it be that her cousin had truly taken an interest in Bai Qingqing?

  No, she had to see this Bai Qingqing for herself!

  On the day of the flower appreciation banquet, the sky was clear and cloudless. The Duke of England’s residence was bustling with visitors, carriages coming and going in an endless stream.

  Bai Qingqing had made all the necessary arrangements early in the morning. The carriages at the entrance moved in an orderly fashion, preventing any congestion or disputes that might dampen the mood.

  As guests entered, servants guided them to the banquet garden, ensuring everyone was properly accommodated. Bai Qingqing had meticulously planned everything—what kind of tea each lady preferred, which young gentlemen should be seated apart to avoid conflict—leaving detailed instructions so that nothing would go wrong. She was so busy that she hardly had a moment to rest.

  "Fortunately, the weather is perfect today—not even a breeze. With everything arranged so thoroughly, there’s no way anything could go wrong," said Zidai as she dabbed Bai Qingqing’s forehead with a handkerchief.

  Bai Qingqing took a moment to catch her breath. "I hope so."