Yuan Lie laughed and said: “I originally wanted to have Yuan Sheng fertilize the flowers you planted, but you still spared his life. How rare.”

Li Weiyang said: “I spared him because of Huaiqing—”

A trace of surprise crossed Yuan Lie’s face: “Because of her?” In his impression, Huaiqing was just an insignificant person. He was somewhat surprised that Li Weiyang would actually mention her. “It’s precisely because she was too trusting of others that she harmed both herself and others.”

Li Weiyang smiled and said: “Yes, she was too trusting of Princess Daming. But things in this world are not simply black and white. If I were in her position, it would be very difficult to suspect someone who grew up with me since childhood, close as sisters.” Princess Huaiqing was too gentle and weak, but this world was too cruel—only the strong could survive. But this didn’t mean the strong had the right to deprive others of their right to survive. She, Li Weiyang, didn’t claim to be a good person, but she also wasn’t so base as to exploit someone who trusted her so completely.

Yuan Lie walked out of the Cold Palace with her. Along the way, palace maids and eunuchs all quietly lowered their heads. Yuan Lie’s gaze wandered, his smile mocking: “In the past when you walked through the palace, others didn’t recognize you, but now when they see you, they don’t even dare raise their heads.”

After the events of three days ago, the name Guo Jia had become quite famous. Li Weiyang smiled: “When I’m polite to them, they think I’m weak and even don’t hesitate to use me to strike at the Guo family. Since I’ve taken on this identity, naturally I should do something for Xiao Man, shouldn’t I?”

Yuan Lie thought for a moment and said: “In this matter, isn’t there still another person?”

Only then did Li Weiyang narrow her eyes, a gleam of light flickering in them as she said slowly: “You mean Peng Dazu.”

“I should say, Peng Dazu was just a chess piece from the start. This matter also involves old grudges from the Guo family’s past. For him to dare carry on a secret affair with Princess Daming in the palace, it couldn’t really be uncontrollable passion—there must be some purpose. As for getting mixed up in this matter later, he was probably acting on orders from General Weiwu.” Yuan Lie paused, his gaze fixed as he looked at her with a smile. “You see, shouldn’t we pay special attention to him?”

Li Weiyang made a sound of agreement.

He raised an eyebrow slightly: “Do you still want to see Peng Dazu himself?”

She glanced up at him, the corners of her mouth lifting: “Is it necessary? Since he’s already been pushed forward by General Weiwu, he’s already prepared to die for certain. If he could be made to reveal his adoptive father in just a few words, they wouldn’t have chosen him.”

But he shook his head, lowering his eyes and saying softly: “You’re afraid that pulling one hair will move the whole body and implicate the Guo family. When did those people become so important to you?”

“Yuan Lie, I’ve said some things before. You understand in your heart—I’ve accepted their kindness, so I must do my duty. This is a transaction, not affection.” Li Weiyang said flatly.

A transaction? If it were a transaction, in yesterday’s situation, you stood by Madam Guo’s side—that’s not like your character. Your feelings toward the Guo family are clearly changing bit by bit, yet you still pretend not to care about them. When will you finally admit your own heart? Yuan Lie smiled slightly. However, your heart becoming softer isn’t necessarily a bad thing for me, so I’ll just let you continue with your ostrich mentality, pretending nothing has changed.

“This Emperor of Yuexi seems a bit abnormal.” Li Weiyang changed the subject.

Yuan Lie glanced around before answering softly: “Since I returned half a year ago, he’s been like this. When he’s well, he’s no different from a normal person, but once his illness strikes, he becomes extremely terrifying. His temperament also seems to change completely. At such times, even Empress Pei won’t easily provoke him.”

“In this condition, can he still manage government affairs?” Li Weiyang frowned.

“With so many trusted ministers, the court is very stable, so naturally it’s no problem. Moreover, he’s not like this every moment. As long as he doesn’t get angry…” Yuan Lie thought for a moment before answering this way.

Li Weiyang shook her head gently: “As a human being, naturally there are joys, angers, sorrows, and happiness. How could he possibly never get angry? What exactly causes this illness of his? Is it really because he was too greatly stimulated by your mother’s death?”

Yuan Lie’s smile paused for a moment, then he answered: “I’ve investigated for a long time and quietly asked many imperial physicians. Everyone says the same thing—there’s nothing particularly unusual. Moreover, when people suffer great trauma, they can go mad. That he can control it this well is already remarkable.”

“Perhaps. But I always feel something indescribably strange.” Maybe Princess Qixia’s death stimulated the Emperor so greatly that he went mad—this was all possible. His appearance yesterday really didn’t seem like a normal person… But Li Weiyang always felt this wasn’t as simple as it appeared on the surface.

“You always worry too much. Whether he’s mad or not has no bearing on our affairs.” Yuan Lie reprimanded her indifferently, but raised his hand and gently fastened a token to her waist, his long fingers smoothing the purple cord on it.

“What’s this?” Li Weiyang touched the token, somewhat surprised.

“With this token, you can freely enter and leave my residence.” Yuan Lie answered with a grin.

Hearing this, Li Weiyang unconsciously smiled, her eyes sparkling brightly: “Aren’t you afraid others will say Prince Xu fell in love with the Guo family’s daughter at first sight and pursued her relentlessly? Aren’t you afraid of being thrown out by my brothers? Aren’t you afraid others will use the Guo family to strike at you?”

Yuan Lie laughed, a strange light flashing in his eyes as he asked slowly: “Have I ever been afraid?”

“Mm, never afraid.” Li Weiyang thought of what Guo Cheng and Guo Dun had done—it was quite amusing, and she also admired Yuan Lie’s unyielding perseverance. “I’ll be leaving the palace tomorrow. If you want to find me again, then—”

“I’ll climb the wall at the Guo residence.” Yuan Lie quickly added.

Li Weiyang couldn’t help but laugh. Yuan Lie thought for a moment, then quickly raised an even brighter smile: “Before those guys come to obstruct me, today is the best opportunity.”

What opportunity? Li Weiyang was slightly surprised, but Yuan Lie smiled and said: “When you leave the palace, there happens to be a temple fair outside the city. It’s very lively. I’ll wait for you outside the palace—don’t return to the Guo residence first.”

Li Weiyang looked at his especially hopeful expression. Something in her heart seemed to melt, filling her chest completely as she said softly: “You want to take me to the temple fair?”

He nodded, looking at her, his voice exceptionally gentle: “Will you go?”

She nodded with a smile: “Alright.”

Early the next morning, Madam Guo, Li Weiyang, and Consort Guo Hui had breakfast together. Madam Guo then formally bid farewell to Consort Hui. Consort Hui’s eyes revealed a reluctant expression, but her face wore a smile as she beckoned Li Weiyang to sit beside her. “Jia’er, thank you so much this time.”

Li Weiyang smiled: “What are you saying, Your Ladyship? You said we’re one family. How can family members say ‘thank you’?”

Consort Guo Hui nodded with a smile: “I was originally worried that growing up outside, you wouldn’t be accustomed to these people’s tricks and might be schemed against. If that happened, I truly wouldn’t know how to face your uncle and aunt. Seeing you’re so clever and composed, I’m much more at ease.”

Before Li Weiyang could answer, she suddenly heard an announcement from outside the hall: “Prince Jing has arrived.” So Prince Jing had also entered the palace. Yuan Ying wore a dark purple robe inlaid with gold, his face wearing a smile as he strode in with large steps. He first paid his respects to Consort Hui and Madam Guo. Li Weiyang smiled, stepped forward to greet him, then rose and gave him her seat, standing to the side herself. Yuan Ying glanced at her, his smile deepening. Looking at Li Weiyang, he said: “These past few days, thank you, cousin.”

Li Weiyang lowered her head with a smile: “Your Highness is too kind.”

“I originally wanted to keep them a few more days, but your uncle wasn’t anxious—your grandmother was! She sent three letters urging me, asking where I’d hidden her granddaughter! I was so frightened I didn’t dare keep them and quickly sent your cousin back!” Consort Guo Hui said with a laugh.

“Grandmother?” Yuan Ying looked at Li Weiyang in surprise, then suddenly smiled, his eyes sparkling. “So cousin has won grandmother’s favor so much.” Princess Chenliu appeared easy to get along with on the surface, but she couldn’t be easily pleased. She saw through people’s hearts very clearly. If Li Weiyang weren’t sincere enough, the old lady would have seen through her long ago. That she liked Li Weiyang so much now showed, first, that this woman was truly very likable, and second, that she must be genuinely good to grandmother.

This person—why did he find her increasingly surprising?

“Grandmother was feeling bored and hoped I’d return to relieve her boredom.” Li Weiyang only said this, not intending to show off in front of Prince Jing at all.

Yuan Ying looked at her with a slight smile, then turned to Consort Hui: “Mother Consort, can you really bear to let her go?”

Consort Guo Hui smiled: “Naturally I can’t bear it. I’m counting on you to think of a way! It would be best to keep her here forever!”

The hint was so obvious. Madam Guo gave a dry laugh, sighing inwardly. Consort Hui truly liked Jia’er—what should she do about this? Other people’s marriage proposals were easy to refuse, but only Yuan Ying—no matter what, he was the most suitable choice. To give this up was truly somewhat regrettable…

“Mother Consort, Peng Dazu has already been handed over to the Ministry of Justice. However, this person is also stubborn. No matter how he’s interrogated and tortured, he refuses to reveal who’s behind it all. He only says he and Princess Daming were mutually attracted, which led to their secret affair, and no one was directing him. I’ve already instructed the people at the Ministry of Justice to watch him carefully and not let anyone tamper with things secretly.” Yuan Ying had naturally noticed Madam Guo’s difficulty and changed the subject.

“Really nothing can be gotten from him?” Madam Guo frowned. If Peng Dazu could be made to implicate General Weiwu and prosecute him, only then would this matter be complete.

Li Weiyang smiled faintly: “He’s General Weiwu’s adopted son, so naturally he’s utterly loyal and won’t confess anything. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have sent him to do this. But this is built on the foundation of their deep mutual affection. If someone in the prison wanted to kill him and silence him, would he still so firmly hold out to the end? I think not.”

As she spoke, her eyes sparkled brightly, so dark they were unsettling. Her appearance slowly attracted all of Yuan Ying’s attention. Consort Guo Hui and Madam Guo exchanged glances, seeing smiles in each other’s eyes.

Yuan Ying was clearly very approving, but his face remained impassive: “That’s true, but this kind of sowing discord—if not done well, could backfire instead.” He wanted to know how far Li Weiyang could think.

Li Weiyang looked directly at him and smiled: “Your Highness, naturally you must select the right timing, the right people, and combine it with understanding the other party’s psychological state! As long as you can make him believe his adoptive father has abandoned him and broken the promises between them, even iron walls can be breached in short order!”

Yuan Ying frowned slightly. From her mouth it sounded very simple, but that person was extremely cunning—breaching his defenses probably wouldn’t be so easy.

“Actually, I’ve tried this method, but he’s immovable.” Yuan Ying sighed. Peng Dazu had already set his mind on dying. No matter how he tried, even telling him the consequences of not talking, the other party remained unmoved.

“That’s because Your Highness didn’t use the right method.” Li Weiyang knew Yuan Ying had tried this approach and wasn’t discouraged, only saying calmly: “Your Highness, I’m just offering suggestions. I’m not insisting you must adopt them. If he’s already seen through the assassination attempt, then you should start with his background. What if you told him his biological father was forced into a desperate situation by General Weiwu, which led to his death?”

Yuan Ying’s eyes narrowed slightly: “What do you mean by that?”

Li Weiyang smiled very frankly: “I mean, on the battlefield, swords and spears have no eyes. On the surface General Weiwu appears righteous, but using subordinates’ lives to protect himself is not impossible.”

Yuan Ying smiled. In fact, though what Li Weiyang said wasn’t entirely correct, it wasn’t far from reality either. Actively blocking an arrow versus being passively pulled over to die—these were completely different things. But the result was the same: using another’s death to exchange for one’s own survival. A hair’s breadth difference, yet worlds apart. But how to reveal this to Peng Dazu was an extremely important matter.

Consort Guo Hui listened for a long time and smiled from the side: “Seeing you two discussing things together makes me very happy.” Yuan Ying had been lukewarm toward Jia’er before, but today he was actually willing to listen to her say so much, his eyes constantly bright—clearly he’d taken a liking to the girl. This marriage she’d arranged shouldn’t be wrong, should it?

What Li Weiyang had told Yuan Lie before wasn’t the truth. She just didn’t want Yuan Lie to get too involved in this matter and be implicated. But Yuan Ying—this was originally a Guo family matter. He should handle it properly. Next, Li Weiyang continued talking with Consort Hui, but vaguely she always felt a gaze firmly fixed on her, making her hair stand on end. It was Yuan Ying—his gaze always fell on her.

Li Weiyang smiled and said to Consort Hui: “Your Ladyship, it’s getting late. We should leave the palace now!” She and Yuan Lie still had an appointment.

Consort Guo Hui nodded, her eyes still showing reluctance: “You must come visit me often in the future.”

Madam Guo held her hand, only nodding along.

Yuan Ying stood up. The gold thread on his clothes sparkled in the sunlight, making his handsome face appear even more noble. His gaze swept across Li Weiyang’s face, then looked at Consort Hui and said: “I’ll see aunt and cousin off.”

Li Weiyang couldn’t help but frown, but Consort Guo Hui had already nodded: “Go ahead.”

At the palace gate, Madam Guo smiled: “Prince Jing need not be so courteous.”

Yuan Ying only smiled: “This time we owe much to cousin’s quick thinking. Otherwise, even my mother consort would have suffered. “

Li Weiyang’s smile was very indifferent: “Your Highness is too kind. I wasn’t just doing this for Consort Hui, but also for the Guo family and for myself.”

“Whether it’s you, the Guo family, my mother consort, or even me—aren’t we all one and the same?” Yuan Ying’s smile became even gentler, but within that gentleness was hidden more goodwill. His previous wariness toward Li Weiyang had clearly diminished considerably. Beyond this, his attitude was no longer as polite as before, appearing much closer.

Madam Guo was a clever person and keenly noticed this. She’d watched Yuan Ying grow up since childhood. On the surface he always smiled, but his thoughts were unfathomable to adults. His character inherited both the Guo family’s composure and the Yuexi imperial family’s shrewdness—a true smiling tiger. But one thing—he was absolutely wholehearted toward his own people. His protective streak was very strong. Once someone was placed within his circle of protection, he absolutely wouldn’t allow others to harm them. Precisely because of this, Madam Guo hoped in her heart he would become her son-in-law. It was just that Yuan Ying previously didn’t seem very interested in her daughter. Madam Guo treasured her daughter dearly and naturally hoped to find someone who would cherish Guo Jia to the bone, so she didn’t force it. Now seeing his attitude had changed, she couldn’t help but feel secretly pleased.

But looking at her daughter’s indifferent expression, as if uninterested in Yuan Ying, Madam Guo felt somewhat worried again.

In the carriage, she tentatively asked Li Weiyang: “Jia’er, do you not like Prince Jing?”

Li Weiyang turned a page of her book, raised her eyes and said: “Why does Mother suddenly ask this?”

Madam Guo hesitated slightly: “Your aunt brought up your marriage again last night. Jia’er, what are you really thinking? Prince Jing is handsome, both literary and martial—he’s worthy of a lifetime commitment. If we married you to someone else in the future, Mother would always worry, but Prince Jing is different. When at home, your grandmother actually mentioned it repeatedly. Mother always deflected, but after this visit to the palace, Her Ladyship especially likes you. This marriage seems very suitable. Mother just wants to ask your thoughts.”

Li Weiyang put down her book and looked at Madam Guo. The other’s eyes were filled with worry and doubt. Then she smiled: “Does Mother hope I’ll marry him?”

Madam Guo paused, then said slowly: “Yes, Mother hopes you’ll marry him, because he’s someone very worthy of a lifetime commitment. I needn’t worry that your future husband will treat you poorly… Even if you accidentally make mistakes, considering our face and his mother consort’s face, he could forgive you. Marriage isn’t just a day or two—what matters is treating you well for a lifetime.”

Li Weiyang was slightly stunned, then squeezed Madam Guo’s hand: “I know Mother’s heart. It’s just that Prince Jing is a good person, but he may not be a good husband. He might treat me with mutual respect for a lifetime, like Second Brother treats Second Sister-in-law, but he can’t be like Father toward you, can he?”

Madam Guo looked at Li Weiyang in surprise, slowly a trace of astonishment appearing in her eyes: “You think Prince Jing doesn’t like you?” She’d long seen that Yuan Ying liked Jia’er. Perhaps at first he was somewhat indifferent, but today he actively offered to see them off—this was already a gesture. Jia’er was so clever—could she not see this?

Madam Guo hadn’t guessed wrong. Li Weiyang was very indifferent regarding emotions. Though Prince Jing’s behavior was so obvious, she remained unmoved. At this moment, hearing what Madam Guo said, she only smiled slightly: “Most importantly, I don’t like him.”

Madam Guo was stunned, then sighed: “Mother should have guessed earlier. Well, if you don’t like him, that’s fine. Mother will select someone else for you.”

Not a single word of refusal—she agreed so easily. If it were someone else, they probably wouldn’t even ask their daughter’s opinion. As long as the parents thought the match was suitable and mutually beneficial to both families, it would be considered a good marriage. But Madam Guo, hearing her say she didn’t like him, immediately nodded. There probably wasn’t a better mother than her in this world. Li Weiyang smiled and leaned on Madam Guo’s shoulder, saying softly: “Mother, thank you.” This wasn’t her biological mother—it was Xiao Man’s. Yet she treated her so well, so much better than expected, that she didn’t know what to do.

“Silly child, our opinion doesn’t matter. Your happiness is what matters. No matter how much Mother likes him, I can’t take your place in spending a lifetime with that person. However, if you really like that Prince Xu, Mother will have your father investigate this person thoroughly. After all, his origins are unclear. When Old Prince Xu was alive it was fine, but now that he’s gone, I’m afraid no one can control this young man. If you really want to marry him, you’ll need to think carefully.” Madam Guo decided to use delaying tactics. Though she spoke well, treating Yuan Lie and Yuan Ying equally, in reality she still favored Prince Jing more.

Li Weiyang laughed: “I’ve just returned to the Guo family—does Mother already hope to marry me off?”

“Of course not!” Madam Guo gripped her hand tightly. “Mother wishes she could keep you by her side forever. Alright, I won’t mention marriage anymore. We’ll discuss it later.”

The carriage proceeded out of the palace. Li Weiyang listened to the sound of horse hooves, somewhat lost in thought. Yuan Lie should be waiting at the palace gate, but he should have seen Yuan Ying. Now really wasn’t the time to meet.

But the carriage still stopped—at a fork in the road not long after leaving the palace. Prince Xu Yuan Lie stood in the middle of the road, smiling with refined elegance. Originally he’d blocked the road at the palace gate, but Yuan Ying pretended not to see him. He simply rode from a side road and more deviously had someone pull an ox cart over, forcibly blocking the Guo family’s carriage.

Yuan Ying sat on his horse with a half-smile: “Prince Xu, what’s the meaning of this?”

“I called for Prince Jing to stop earlier, but your eyesight must be poor—you probably didn’t see?” The magnificently dressed man smiled elegantly, his stunningly handsome face carrying a trace of mockery.

Yuan Ying raised one eyebrow. He’d deliberately pretended not to see Yuan Lie earlier, yet the other party was still so persistent, so tactless! He knew the palace was currently full of rumors that Prince Xu Yuan Lie had fallen in love with the Guo family’s young miss at first sight and was desperately pursuing her. Everyone found it very puzzling—though the Guo family’s young miss was beautiful, she hadn’t reached the level of toppling kingdoms. That Pei Bao’er was Yuexi’s number one beauty. Why hadn’t Prince Xu taken a liking to Pei Bao’er, but instead relentlessly pursued Miss Guo? Yuan Ying originally hadn’t paid much attention to this matter, because at the time he didn’t particularly value this marriage. But now, somehow seeing Prince Xu made him uncomfortable, and he especially disliked him approaching Guo Jia.

“It’s not that I didn’t see—it’s just that my aunt and cousin are hurrying back to the residence. It’s inconvenient to stop the carriage. I don’t know what urgent matter Prince Xu has?” Yuan Ying said dismissively.

Yuan Lie’s smile was brilliant: “Miss Guo and I have already agreed to visit an old friend together. What, Prince Jing didn’t know?”

Yuan Ying’s expression looked unpleasant for a moment. Prince Xu’s words seemed deliberately telling him that he and Guo Jia were very familiar. This feeling—he didn’t much like it. It was from this moment that he discovered he cared somewhat about this cousin. Perhaps not just somewhat. Then he was startled by his own thoughts. Though Guo Jia was beautiful, she hadn’t yet reached the point where she could stir his heart. At this moment, Yuan Ying couldn’t explain his own feelings and felt somewhat irritated and confused. Wasn’t he still suspicious of Guo Jia just a few days ago? Why did he seem a bit captivated by her spirited demeanor…

However, the carriage curtain moved. It was Zhao Yue who jumped down from the carriage. Seeing Yuan Lie, she immediately showed a happy expression: “Prince Xu, my young miss instructed me to ask you to wait at the road ahead.”

So she’d agreed—Yuan Ying’s handsome face darkened slightly.

“Would Prince Jing like to come along?” Yuan Lie smiled at him. Only at this moment did he seem to suddenly remember, smiling and patting his head. “Oh, I forgot—it seems Prince Jing still needs to escort the carriage back. Then I’ll trouble you to see Madam Guo home.”

After all, Yuan Ying was famous as a smiling tiger. A dark gleam flashed in his eyes as he smiled gently and lowered his head without speaking.

Li Weiyang told Madam Guo she was just going to see Princess Yongning. Madam Guo nodded and personally saw her off the carriage. Then seeing Prince Jing’s cold expression, she sighed: “Ying’er, it’s not that your aunt won’t help you, it’s just…” It’s just that this Prince Xu is truly difficult to deal with.

Yuan Ying only smiled: “Aunt, I understand everything. The road is long—a horse’s strength is tested over distance, and a person’s heart is seen over time. Someone like Prince Xu may not have constancy. Cousin is young and may not see clearly yet. She needs you to guide her from the side.”

Madam Guo sighed inwardly, but smiled on her face: “Naturally. In my heart, I’m still helping you.” Though she said this, she glanced at Prince Xu’s retreating figure. That child was too handsome—this was something no one could match. Perhaps her daughter had taken a liking to that face? If so, there would be no solution.

Yuan Ying’s smile became even more gentle as he attentively helped Madam Guo into the carriage: “Aunt, be careful. Speaking of which, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen Grandmother. I should go keep her company today.”

Madam Guo got into the carriage and looked at Yuan Ying thoughtfully. This nephew—since he’d set his heart on Jia’er, he probably wouldn’t be easy to dismiss either. Alas, when she couldn’t find her daughter, she worried. Now that her daughter had reached marriageable age, she still worried. Whether Prince Jing or Prince Xu, neither could be easily refused.

The temple fair was very lively, crowded everywhere. There were also quite a few young ladies wearing veils, surrounded by maids and guards. Even more rode openly in sedan chairs, watching the crowds in the streets. Li Weiyang’s face also wore a veil. Zhao Yue followed behind unhurriedly. Of course, with Madam Guo worried, she’d specially sent four guards along. Such a formation really wasn’t suitable for two people to be alone. But Yuan Lie didn’t mind. With his long arm hanging down, his sleeve fell to cover both their hands, preventing others from seeing.

The sounds of voices were noisy in their ears. Children ran past them laughing and playing constantly. Li Weiyang looked at him somewhat surprised, but he only smiled: “There are too many people. We might get separated if we’re not careful.”

She was speechless, but because they were surrounded by people, she couldn’t refuse. His fingers bent slightly, gripping her hand tightly, faintly burning.

As they walked along, many vendors called out. Someone with sharp eyes shouted at Li Weiyang: “Madam, this hairpin suits you best! Sir, buy one for your wife!”

Yuan Lie was clearly very happy inside, but his face remained impassive. He pulled Li Weiyang over and turned over everything on the small stall, finally selecting a hairpin carved with a crescent moon. Though the material wasn’t the finest, the style was extremely distinctive. He tossed down an ingot of silver and placed the hairpin in Li Weiyang’s hair.

Seeing the silver, the vendor’s eyes crinkled with smiles: “This gentleman is so generous! The madam is so blessed!”

Li Weiyang’s face involuntarily reddened. Though she wanted to say the other party had misunderstood, Yuan Lie gripped her hand even tighter. Though few nobles came to browse here, what if they happened to encounter someone? How would the two of them explain? Did they really want to confirm those rumors? The Guo family’s daughter and Prince Xu… Li Weiyang wanted to pull back her hand, but he continued pulling her forward.

“You—let go,” she frowned, finally saying firmly.

He turned to look at her. Those amber eyes were clear and captivating, stirring the heart. But he said nothing, only smiling: “If I let go, you’ll be swept away by the crowd. I’ll let go when we reach a less crowded place.”

Li Weiyang was helpless. Along the way, countless people placed their gazes on Yuan Lie. Though he was currently very understated, he still stood out extraordinarily in the crowd. Though they didn’t know who he was, they were startled by his handsomeness. Especially those young ladies—their eyes looking at Li Weiyang nearly pierced through her veil. Li Weiyang disliked such stares. Her brows moved slightly as she turned her head to look at him again.

Such a man—who would dare claim they could monopolize him? She, Li Weiyang?

Her palm grew slightly cold, not knowing what complex emotions filled her heart.

He walked forward, but his peripheral vision noticed the movement behind. Those four Guo family guards had been quietly following, protecting Li Weiyang. With a slight smile, a trace of cunning crossed his eyes. He suddenly made eye contact with the nearest Zhao Yue, then threw a handful of silver ingots from his sleeve, quickly scattering them behind. In an instant, countless people gathered, desperately scrambling for the silver on the ground. Without hesitation, he strode forward with large steps, pulling her past the crowd and turning into a quiet side alley nearby. Li Weiyang was surprised, but saw Zhao Yue and those four guards struggling to break free from the crowd. Zhao Yue seemed to deliberately lead them the wrong way, heading in another direction. Just as she was about to speak, she saw that following the five of them, there was actually another group of people tailing behind.

Yuan Lie smiled: “Did you see?”

Li Weiyang frowned: “What are you doing? If the Guo family can’t find me, there will certainly be big trouble!”

He smiled and said: “I just wanted to shake off those nuisances. Not all of those people were sent by your mother—at the very end there were seven or eight more of unknown origin.”

Li Weiyang glanced at the backs of those people, saying thoughtfully: “They’re indeed not Guo family people. I’ve never seen them before.”

Yuan Lie smiled broadly: “Perhaps it’s Prince Jing?”

“Prince Jing? Why would he send people to follow you?” Li Weiyang didn’t understand martial arts after all. Moreover, what reason would Yuan Ying have to follow them? “Could he suspect we have ulterior motives?” In her view, this was the only reason.

Those seven or eight people had gone the wrong direction and were heading back this way. Yuan Lie pulled Li Weiyang and dodged behind a wooden crate to the side, his tall figure completely sheltering her, making them invisible from the street.

That group searched everywhere in the crowd. Li Weiyang watched from afar, her heart suddenly pounding hard. She raised her eyes to look at him again.

“He’s not suspecting us. He wants to know what we’re doing together.” He smiled, but suddenly called her softly: “Weiyang.”

He seemed to draw closer and closer, his smile carrying a trace of barely perceptible annoyance: “I think your actions in the palace were too good—you not only successfully dispelled Prince Jing’s suspicions, but also stirred thoughts in him he shouldn’t have.”

The marriage alliance between the two families was originally arranged by the elders. If it were Xiao Man, would she really have become Princess Jing? Li Weiyang sighed. Regardless of what choice Xiao Man would make, she wasn’t her and absolutely wouldn’t marry Prince Jing. She couldn’t help but frown: “It’s just…”

Before she finished speaking, he suddenly reached out, lifted her veil, lowered his head and found her lips, his tongue sliding between her teeth, desperately kissing and biting her as if to pour out all his longing from these days in this instant. Li Weiyang was shocked. Before she could refuse, her heart gradually burned. This wasn’t his first time kissing her, but this was his most fierce time, as if he wanted to swallow her whole.

Outside, people came and went. Perhaps at any moment someone would walk in and see this scene. If so, what awaited her would be endless trouble. Her hand originally intended to push him away, but in this kiss that made her whole body weak, she momentarily forgot to refuse and actually let him be so presumptuous.

There was something they both understood very well. This kind of dependence, this kind of trust—she wouldn’t give to others, and neither would he. It was just that she had enough confidence to take revenge, but didn’t know how to properly hold onto happiness.

“Even if the next instant we’re discovered by someone, even if the entire Guo family opposes it, even if tomorrow we’ll be reviled by everyone under heaven, I still won’t let go.” He finally released her, breathing softly as he said this in her ear.

Won’t let go—she was slightly stunned, but heard from afar that those searching for her had returned, constantly searching in the crowd, their anxiety and panic visible through the layers of people. She sighed softly, covered her veil, and said: “Let’s go back.”

Yuan Lie looked at her, only smiling: “I’ll accompany you back.”

Her heart was a cold clam shell. No matter how excellent a man was, there was no way to pry open even a crack. He was like this, and Yuan Ying was too. Their only difference was that he’d known her so many years earlier than Yuan Ying. He knew how tightly her heart was closed, knew where her weaknesses were, and moreover knew that no matter what, she couldn’t bear to abandon him. This was enough. He had time, patience, and confidence to open her heart bit by bit, slowly melting her clam shell. As for Yuan Ying—he could never do it.

Returning to the Guo residence, Guo Cheng immediately came forward, his face full of smiles: “I’m sorry, Prince Xu. Today is our family gathering. I’m afraid it’s inconvenient to receive outside guests.”

Family gathering? Yuan Ying was participating too? Yuan Lie smiled and smiled and smiled again: “If that’s the case, I won’t intrude. I’ll visit another day.”

Guo Cheng smiled apologetically, but inwardly felt very satisfied. He and Guo Dun had finally blocked the tunnel, only to discover Yuan Lie had bribed maids in the residence and disguised himself to enter—truly stopping at nothing. He’d originally maintained a neutral attitude, but now couldn’t stand it anymore. In his view, though Yuan Ying also needed guarding against, he was still better than Yuan Lie, this unkillable pest.

Too impatient to continue looking at the Guo brothers’ false smiles, Yuan Lie smiled at Li Weiyang, winked at her, then turned and departed gracefully.

Li Weiyang laughed: “Third Brother, must you use this attitude toward guests?”

Guo Cheng’s smile remained just as affable: “Little sister, you’re inexperienced and easily deceived by pretty boys. If such a situation really occurred, how heartbroken Mother would be. Think about it—am I right or not?”

Very right, just not very convincing. Li Weiyang shook her head: “Third Brother, your thinking is really too far ahead.”

Guo Cheng said very thick-facedly: “Without distant worries, one must have immediate troubles. I’m doing this for your good.” Saying this, he glanced at Guo Dun beside him: “Right?” Guo Dun was the person most opposed to Yuan Lie. Conversely, he felt his sister marrying Yuan Ying was most suitable, so he nodded without hesitation.

Li Weiyang sighed, momentarily not knowing how to face such a pair of brothers.

Yuan Ying sat in the great hall drinking tea, listening to this Guo family conversation, smiling without comment. In a sense, he could win all the Guo family’s favor, but Yuan Lie would find it very difficult. So for him to break through obstacles and get close to Li Weiyang would probably be very hard indeed.

Just then, Guo Dao walked into the great hall covered in dust, that signature lazy smile hanging at his lips, making people feel warm at the sight. Seeing the situation in the great hall, he wasn’t surprised at all. With a face full of smiles, he said: “Little sister, someone just delivered a box outside, saying it’s for you. I had people carry it in.”

Everyone was stunned. Guo Cheng’s face showed confusion: “It’s not New Year or a festival—what kind of gift is being sent?” Could it be that never-say-die Yuan Lie again?! How was that possible—he’d just been kicked out by himself.

The box had seals pasted on it. Li Weiyang looked at it, not knowing why, but her heart had a strange premonition. She said slowly: “Fifth Brother, do you know who sent it?”

Guo Dao shook his head: “This… the gatekeeper said it was delivered long ago, but because it was specified for Miss Guo, no one dared open it.”

Li Weiyang thought for a moment and instructed Zhao Yue: “Open it.” Zhao Yue stepped forward to tear off the seals. Just as she lifted the box lid, she couldn’t help crying out in alarm.

Li Weiyang walked forward a step, but Guo Cheng immediately blocked her: “Don’t look!” Guo Dao also reacted, quickly putting the lid back down, but it was already too late. Li Weiyang had seen the scene inside the box.

“Fifth Brother, please open the box.” Li Weiyang’s voice was very firm.

“A dead person… what’s there to see!” Guo Cheng was obviously also very surprised, and had no choice but to say this now.

Li Weiyang’s eyes seemed to gather a faint coldness, but her voice forcibly suppressed shock and anger: “Third Brother!”

This single cry made Guo Cheng tremble slightly. However, he bit his teeth firmly: “I already said, you shouldn’t look!”

At this time, Yuan Ying, who had been sitting to the side, stood up and slowly walked over, pushing Guo Cheng aside: “No need to block her.” Guo Jia wasn’t that fragile and easily bullied—he’d seen this when they were in the palace. Of course, the Guo brothers’ actions were completely out of love and protection for her, but in his view, if this protection went against her wishes, it was unnecessary.

Guo Dun glared hatefully at Guo Dao. Guo Dao was also innocent. He thought the box contained a gift someone sent, after all, this scene wasn’t uncommon. People everywhere were trying to curry favor with the Guo family’s young miss. Even that Prince Xu had done this kind of thing countless times. He only thought it was another treasure someone sent, never imagining such a thing would happen! Who dared play tricks behind their backs! He sighed and reopened the box. The male corpse lying horizontally in the box had an extremely handsome face mottled with bluish-white, with some heroic spirit between his brows. His eyes were wide open, the pupils already dilated, looking very frightening.

This face—Li Weiyang would naturally not forget. Wen Xiaolou…

Xiao Man’s closest friend, who would stop at nothing to avenge her—Wen Xiaolou…

His body was covered in dark purple bruises—traces of torture. Not only were there countless wounds, many places showed bone. All ten fingernails had been peeled off, blood dripping everywhere, extremely horrifying. One could imagine what great torment he suffered while alive.

Guo Cheng frowned. He also recognized Wen Xiaolou. He remembered Madam Guo saying that without this person, they probably still couldn’t have found his sister… So Madam Guo reciprocated the favor, introducing him to many households. He became a famous actor throughout the capital. But now he’d died like this and been sent here for Li Weiyang to see. The other party obviously knew of Li Weiyang and Wen Xiaolou’s friendship and deliberately sent it. What exactly was the purpose?

Li Weiyang glanced once and said flatly: “Bury Master Wen properly.”

Before her eyes, she didn’t know why, but the image of Xiao Man and Wen Xiaolou standing together floated up. She remembered Xiao Man saying she feared that after she died, Wen Xiaolou would be lonely alone.

To be honest, she didn’t like Wen Xiaolou—she very much didn’t like him, because this actor was too perceptive, too cunning, too cold. In his bones, he was the same kind of person as her, Li Weiyang. So between them, rather than friends, they were more like collaborators. After avenging Yuan Yu’s death, Wen Xiaolou took his leave from her and lived in that house for raising orphans, using all the money earned from singing opera daily on those children.

Li Weiyang knew that being close to her would bring him no good, so she just had people send more wealth. She’d originally thought they would have no further connection.

But now, someone had killed Wen Xiaolou and sent him before her.

She thought she knew who this was. In this world she had many enemies, but those who knew the relationship between her and Wen Xiaolou were few. Except for that person who once appeared at the opera house—only him, and that was all.