“Yuzhen, would you be happier if you became the empress?” Yuzhen quickly turned her head, looking at the composed Qingqing in panic. Qingqing immediately smiled lightly, saying casually, “I was just asking out of curiosity.” Yuzhen didn’t think much of it and changed the subject, “Qingqing, shouldn’t you consider your own feelings? We’re not children anymore.” We must face what we must face, no longer able to avoid it. The next day, Qingqing began her life as a study companion. Now, Li Qin no longer needed the Grand Tutor’s guidance; he was in the imperial study, beginning to learn how to review memorials, taking charge of matters that weren’t overly critical. When Qingqing entered, she saw him frowning. “It seems the emperor said you could handle matters that aren’t critical, but you look very busy?” Li Qin put down the memorial he was holding, not showing any constraint in front of Qingqing, “Is there any matter of the state that isn’t critical?” Qingqing suddenly bowed respectfully, moved, “With such diligence from the crown prince, the people are blessed.” Li Qin lightly supported her, his words earnest, “Qingqing, thank you!” Seeing her confusion, he continued, “It was you who enlightened me and reminded the emperor.” Qingqing then recalled the distant past when she was only twelve. She had criticized Li Qin’s “imperial meal” and, after falling into the water, told the emperor that “the softest can ride the hardest,” which led the emperor to change from strictness to compassion, paving the way for Li Qin’s current mindset. That was so long ago that Qingqing had almost forgotten, but this shows her true nature from back then. Why then does Li Qin treat her only as a confidante? If what the emperor said was true, if they were to unite, then the world… Of course, Qingqing is not like Yuzhen; she wouldn’t sacrifice her happiness for the sake of the world. Sometimes, one doesn’t have to be the emperor’s woman to serve the nation; being his study companion can suffice. So, Qingqing asked Li Qin, “The emperor asked me to be your study companion, but we both know in our hearts that we only see each other as good friends, so I hope you won’t misunderstand my presence in the imperial study.” She was afraid Li Qin might think she shared the emperor’s intentions, aiming to cultivate feelings. Did this not also indicate that she had feelings for Li Qin?
Chapter 97: Meeting the Fourth Prince Again
