Though he hadn’t seen this face before, Ruan Ning was certain this was Liu Yi, the male protagonist from the original text, known for being dramatic and making a fuss whenever Huo Rou showed discomfort. Liu Yi was talented and well-born, his only flaw perhaps being slightly loud-mouthed—understandable for a male lead in a romance novel.
“Is she a criminal slave?” Chu Yuan repeated, darkening his face. “She is my future queen. How dare you disrespect her? Liu Shizi, if you don’t know what crime this is, you might as well ask Duke An.”
His words shocked everyone. Ruan Ning had never heard him mention this before and couldn’t tell whether he was punishing Liu Yi or genuinely had this intention. Huo Rou, just getting up, felt as if cold water had been poured over her. Despite her losses today, Chu Yuan’s fierce protective demeanor moved her; she longed to be the woman by his side. However, he planned to marry someone else, which made Huo Rou unwilling to relinquish her claim on him.
Chu Xiang was aware of Chu Yuan’s intentions, as he had mentioned them before.
However, Chu Xiang knew it was impossible. The Emperor valued him highly and would never agree to him marrying the daughter of a criminal. He had advised Chu Yuan not to rush and promised to discuss it slowly with the Emperor. However, today, provoked by Liu Yi, he announced it publicly.
This matter would not remain hidden from the Emperor. How should they handle the situation now?
Countless gazes fell on Ruan Ning—envious, surprised, disdainful, and curious. Many could not understand what made this notoriously arrogant woman so special that it provoked the Prince of Ning’s fury.
Suddenly, a eunuch’s sharp voice rang out: “His Majesty has arrived!”
As soon as Chu Anzheng entered, the Mei Garden fell silent. In the tense atmosphere, he walked through the crowd, looked at Chu Xiang, and coldly said: “Crown Prince, you were here. How could you let the Prince of Ning suffer such grievance?”
Chu Xiang bowed and apologized: “It is the son’s negligence. Please forgive me, Father Emperor.”
Liu Yi was furious. The Prince of Ning suffered a grievance? He clearly attacked first. How could the Emperor be so biased?
