CHAPTER TWENTY‑NINE — MATRIMONIAL ISSUES
The Crown Prince lifted his gaze toward Tang Ke Xin, the faintest curve touching his lips—a smile that was not quite a smile, as though he were quietly amused by her. His eyes held a glimmer of curiosity, perhaps even mischief.
The Empress was a woman of firm resolve. Once she made a decision, she would argue with the Emperor himself to see it through. Yet a few simple words from Tang Ke Xin had caused her to reverse her stance entirely—and with remarkable speed.
"Master Yan has indeed produced an exceptional disciple," the Crown Prince remarked, his eyes narrowing with interest as they settled on Tang Ke Xin. "It is rare to see Miss Tang so… enthusiastic."
It was clear he wished to observe her reaction.
"That may be true for men," the Empress interjected before Tang Ke Xin could speak. "But one must not be too strict with young ladies. Girls must be cherished and cared for."
"That applies to normal girls," Ye Lan Chen muttered under his breath, unable to restrain himself. "With her…"
He trailed off, remembering all too vividly the threat she had whispered in the carriage. Cherish her? He was still grateful to be alive.
Before he could continue, a sharp voice rang through the hall.
"The Emperor has arrived!"
The eunuch's announcement cut through the air, silencing all conversation. A moment later, the Emperor entered, his steps steady and dignified. He paused briefly upon seeing the assembled group, surprise flickering across his features before softening into a warm smile.
For all his imperial authority, he was still a man who longed for the simple warmth of family.
"Chenqie greets the Emperor. May Your Majesty enjoy boundless blessings," the Empress said, stepping forward with a graceful bow.
"This son greets Royal Father," the Crown Prince and the princes echoed.
"This humble girl pays her respects to the Emperor," Tang Ke Xin added, lowering her head with quiet decorum.
"I heard from the Prime Minister that this young lady has recovered from her illness," the Emperor said, his tone light and pleased. "It seems he was right. Your manners are quite proper."
He regarded her with a gentle smile.
"Since Xin'er has recovered, she may now learn everything she ought to. She is no less capable than any other."
The Empress's face glowed with pride.
"Yes, Your Majesty. It is truly wonderful."
The Emperor nodded thoughtfully.
"That reminds me—this girl was born on the same day as Chen'er. She is nearly eighteen now. At such an age, she should have been married long ago. Now that she is well again, it is perfectly suitable for her to marry Mu Shaoyi…"
His voice trailed off as he considered the matter.
A faint, almost imperceptible flicker crossed the Empress's eyes—gone so quickly that no one could be certain it had been there at all.
"Imperial Father, she no longer likes Mu Shaoyi," Ye Lan Chen blurted out, unable to restrain himself.
"You no longer like him?"
The Emperor frowned slightly, turning his gaze to Tang Ke Xin. "What does this mean?"
"Chenqie was thinking the same," the Empress said gently. "In the past, Xin'er adored Mu Shaoyi, but Mu Shaoyi never cared for her. He has delayed the marriage again and again. Xin'er is nearly eighteen—how can a young lady be left waiting indefinitely? What future would she have?"
Her voice trembled with genuine concern.
Tang Ke Xin felt a strange warmth stir within her.
The Empress truly cared for her—cared in a way that felt almost maternal. In that moment, Tang Ke Xin realised that the Empress's worry for her was no less than what she would feel for her own daughter.