The red plum blossoms were in full bloom as Shen Wei and Zhao Qing strolled beneath the flowering trees. After walking for a while, Shen Wei's delicate brows furrowed slightly, and she gently pressed a hand to her abdomen.
Cai Lian, who was accompanying her, quickly stepped forward to support her. "Mistress, are you feeling unwell?"
Shen Wei nodded weakly. "My stomach is a bit uncomfortable."
Only then did Zhao Qing notice the slight swell of Shen Wei's belly. Shen Wei wore thick winter garments, always draped in a fox-fur cloak when she went out, concealing her pregnancy from prying eyes.
"So the side consort is with child. Had I known earlier, I would have invited you inside for tea," Zhao Qing said politely.
Shen Wei smiled warmly in response. "I'm just a little tired. Now that the pearls have been delivered, and as it's getting late, I shall return to Prince Yan's Mansion."
After bidding farewell to Zhao Qing, Shen Wei departed the South Garrison Marquis's Mansion.
