Fu Yi nodded. The princess consort continued, “I’ve already sent for the people from Chunxiu Pavilion to make you two new sets of robes in a hurry. Lingyun Pavilion also sent a new hair crown. I examined it—the quality is quite fine, perfect for wearing to the banquet.”

She beckoned him forward and tidied his collar with a mother’s gentle touch. “The incense Bai Qingqing sent last time, the one called ‘Spring Grace,’ I found it quite pleasant. If you see her, have her send some more.”

“Yi’er, you are my son. I always want the best for you. The legitimate eldest daughter of the Duke of England’s family has been raised delicately, untouched by the world. She is simple and pure—no one could be more suited to be your wife. You won’t disappoint your mother, will you?”

Fu Yi lowered his eyes, listening quietly. His mother had told him these same words in his past life. Bai Qingqing was indeed simple and pure, and she had never hidden her admiration for him, her affections shining bright and passionate.

But Fu Yi had always remembered how she fell for him at first sight—how it had all been carefully orchestrated. The deeper Bai Qingqing’s love, the more he wanted to escape. Every time he looked at her, he was reminded that his position as heir was only secured through his marriage alliance with the Bai family.

That subtle feeling of constraint kept him from ever responding to her affections. He had rather busied himself with official duties, thinking that once he had achieved enough merit and freed himself from the prince’s household, he would finally make it up to Qingqing.

But fate had robbed him of that chance.

Fu Yi left the princess consort’s courtyard in silence. He hadn’t gone far when he heard a crisp voice.

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“Cousin.”

Lifting his gaze, he saw Lu Qingyun approaching gracefully. She wore a fresh spring outfit in pale green, her hair adorned with an Eastern pearl hairpin, its tassels swaying gently with her steps, as light as a spring breeze.

As she reached him, she smiled softly. “Cousin, did you just come from Aunt’s place? Why didn’t you wait for me? The plum blossoms in the garden have bloomed beautifully again today—will you take a walk with me later?”

Like when they were children, she reached for his arm. Fu Yi subtly avoided her touch. “I have matters to attend to. Next time.”

Lu Qingyun’s eyes flickered, but her smile remained unchanged. “I heard the Duke of England’s family is hosting a flower-viewing banquet. Will you be attending, Cousin? I’ve often heard people say the Bai family’s young lady is breathtakingly beautiful. I wonder if it’s true—I’d love to see for myself.”

Fu Yi glanced at her. “The rumors about Miss Bai are not unfounded. But speaking about others behind their backs is improper.”

“Ah… I was careless.”

Lu Qingyun hesitated briefly before sticking out her tongue playfully, looking both charming and innocent. Yet the light in her eyes dimmed.

To hear the words “not unfounded” from her cousin’s own mouth, and to be corrected because of that woman—Lu Qingyun felt a pang of unease. Could it be that Cousin was truly interested in her?

No, that wouldn’t do. She had to see Bai Qingqing with her own eyes.

On the day of the flower-viewing banquet, the skies were clear and bright. The Duke of England’s residence was bustling with activity, carriages lining the entrance in an endless stream.

Bai Qingqing had arranged everything early in the morning. The carriages moved in an orderly manner, ensuring there were no bottlenecks or disputes that might dampen the guests’ spirits.

Upon arrival, the guests were guided by servants to the banquet courtyard. Bai Qingqing had even accounted for personal preferences—who favored which type of tea, which young masters should be seated far apart to avoid conflict—everything had been thought through. She instructed the servants carefully, making sure nothing went amiss, leaving herself no moment to rest.

“Luckily, the weather is perfect today, not even a breeze. With how thoroughly you’ve prepared, my lady, nothing will go wrong,” Zidai said, dabbing Bai Qingqing’s forehead with a handkerchief.

Bai Qingqing exhaled, taking a brief moment to catch her breath. “Let’s hope so.”