Li Weiheng’s anticipation was likely even greater. As the youngest minister since the founding of the Yan Dynasty, from the prestigious Langya clan, he was elegant and handsome—a dream lover for many women. Wei Linxia couldn’t help but wonder about Xi Zhaoting’s feelings upon hearing of Li Weiheng’s grand wedding.
At dusk, the wedding began. Wei Linxia joined Xi Linxuan in receiving the newlyweds’ kowtow. Xi Linxuan appeared very happy. Sitting beside him, Wei Linxia felt somewhat relieved, recalling his promise that they would grow old together peacefully amid unavoidable difficulties.
In the imperial carriage returning to the palace, Xi Linxuan draped his arm around Wei Linxia’s shoulders, helping her remove the complex headdress.
“What are you laughing about?” Wei Linxia asked, noting his smile had not faded.
“Nothing, just remembering our wedding night and your words back then,” he replied with a grin.
Wei Linxia felt slightly awkward; those words were bold for a woman.
“Good thing no one heard, or they’d think the Crown Princess forcibly married the Crown Prince,” he continued teasingly.
“So what?
Wei Linxia leaned into his embrace, accidentally touching the sachet he carried. Squeezing it, she felt several round objects inside, wondering what they were.
“Not bad, just go along with it.” Xi Linxuan took down the sachet and revealed small round balls. Wei Lindong remembered they were embroidered balls from Tao Xiuqiu, given to him when they first got married. He never expected such a journey would still be ongoing.
“It’s precisely because of this that I willingly went along with it, Wei Chenbi. You don’t need to feel guilty.” Xi Linxuan carefully put them back at his waist.
“Who would have such a thing…” Wei Lindong whispered.
Xi Linxuan would never lie to her. He even preserved the small trinkets she gave him—how could he bear to make her sad? He said she would understand someday, so she should wait for that day. What’s the rush?
“Chenbi, regarding Chenli’s matter…”
“That’s not a harem affair. Let the imperial historians hear and they’ll start scolding. I’m a good empress who follows palace rules,” Wei Lindong replied.
“Okay, you can ask me when you want to know later.” Xi Linxuan gently kissed her forehead.
