The arrival of Prince Heng was never a good omen.
Prince Yan's eyes darkened as he turned to Shen Wei. "Weiwei, return to Liuli Pavilion for now."
Shen Wei nodded obediently, her gaze tender as she looked at Prince Yan. "Then this humble one will return tonight to accompany Your Highness for dinner. Yao'er and I have prepared some lotus pastries—I'll bring them for you to taste."
Prince Yan gave a slight nod, his eyes brimming with unspoken affection. "Very well."
Shen Wei adjusted her dress and hair ornaments, ensuring not a single strand was out of place before leaving the prince's chambers.
At the courtyard gate, she caught sight of Prince Heng in the distance. The prince, usually flamboyant and carefree in his attire, was dressed in plain, casual robes today, leaning on a cane as he limped forward like an ailing man—as if the words "I too am injured" were written across his face.
Shen Wei had never held a favorable impression of Prince Heng.
