Song Feiwan did not directly say she wouldn't meet him; she merely stated, "This palace is unwell. The Crown Prince will understand."
The young palace maid replied, "So that means you won't meet him."
She was unaware of what had transpired between the two masters, but whether inside or outside the palace, she had seen too many women endure hardships for the sake of living. Many who married ordinary husbands often had to turn a blind eye to things just to make their lives a little easier. Not to mention, her master’s husband was none other than the highly sought-after Crown Prince.
As the stalemate continued, the young maid genuinely worried that her master would suffer a great loss. However, being a servant, she dared not advise too deeply and could only leave with a heavy heart.
Song Feiwan knew what the young maid was worried about and was also aware of her own actions. She was already angry; having taken what she wanted, it would be beneath her dignity to approach him again with eagerness. It felt hypocritical and pretentious. It was as if her displeasure was meant to intimidate Xiao Yu. If he were to get that impression, he might resort to more drastic measures next time.
For now, it was a tug-of-war, far from the time when she would bow her head in submission. She had prepared herself to see Xiao Yu again at the palace banquet, but unexpectedly, the following evening, Consort Rong sent someone to invite her for dinner.
Song Feiwan could not disregard her face entirely; she tidied her attire and stepped out the door.
Upon entering, she immediately spotted Xiao Yu sitting in a chair. This man always dressed in the finest materials; a single piece of fabric could feed an ordinary family for three months. Yet his clothing typically came in only black, white, or dark hues. Today, however, he wore a light moon-white long robe that seemed slightly thinner than usual. As he moved, the cuffs appeared to shimmer with a faint blue mist.
With his unparalleled and striking features, he looked even more ethereal today, exuding an air of nobility that felt unattainable. When their eyes met—his deep phoenix eyes—Song Feiwan felt as if she had been scalded and instinctively lowered her gaze.
Her eyes fell upon his pale lips, and uncontrollably, memories flooded back of that day when he had pressed her against the chair and kissed her. The heat of that moment did not fade; if anything, it intensified.
Fortunately, no matter how tumultuous her emotions were inside, she managed to maintain a calm expression and steady tone.
Kneeling, she greeted the two of them, "I pay my respects to the Consort and His Highness, Prince Chen."
Consort Rong smiled and spoke, "From now on, when it's just us family, there's no need for such formalities. Since it's not yet time for the meal, why don't you sit here for a while?"
"Yes."
Song Feiwan walked over without glancing aside, feeling two undeniable gazes following her closely.
Once she was seated, Consort Rong turned to Xiao Yu and asked, "Did you not say you had something for Feiwan?"
"Yes." Xiao Yu raised his hand, and immediately a palace maid stepped forward, presenting a wooden box to her.
The box was exquisitely carved, undoubtedly crafted by a skilled artisan.
Song Feiwan took a glance but did not open it. Instead, she asked Xiao Yu, "What is this?"
Finally meeting her clear gaze, Xiao Yu recalled the scene from that day at the medical hall and swallowed hard. "The beautiful consort offended the Bi Xiao Palace, and His Majesty granted rewards, which includes something for you."
Upon hearing this, Song Feiwan reached out and opened the box.
In addition to expensive jewelry, she was surprised to find a small black velvet pouch. Her nose twitched as she caught a whiff of medicinal herbs!
Blinking in surprise, she picked up the small pouch and opened it.
Indeed, it was medicinal herbs!
It reminded her of the day she rode into the palace with Xiao Yu when she had tried to avoid being ordered around by men while looking at that page of medicinal herbs in the medical book!
Clearly, the Emperor had bestowed these herbs not just as a reward but with thoughtful intent directed specifically at her.
Or perhaps he had added them himself.
He had remembered what herbs she wanted.
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