Hearing her thoughts exposed, Wan Lingyi's face briefly showed embarrassment.
It was then that she noticed Yuanhe behind Fang Yun, holding a basket already filled with beautiful plum blossoms.
Clearly, they had been there for some time.
Wan Lingyi felt annoyed at her earlier wariness, fearing Zhao Fei was there to intercept the Emperor, which led her to speak in such a manner.
Realizing it was just a coincidence, she quickly tried to smooth things over.
"Your Highness, I was just admiring how close you and the Emperor are, meeting here by chance. I truly envy your deep bond."
Her earnest explanation made Fang Yun laugh.
"Your Majesty, look how easily Wan Lingyi gets flustered. A few jokes from me, and she reacts as if I've stepped on her tail."
Though it was a joke, it heightened Wan Lingyi's embarrassment, making it difficult for her to explain.
It felt like the more she said, the more mistakes she made.
Pei Yao, aware of Wan Lingyi's initial thoughts, saw that Fang Yun hadn't taken any offense, so he decided not to address it further.
He chuckled, "You're quite mischievous for a mother, still so playful."
Fang Yun's beautiful eyes glinted with mock jealousy, "I wonder if you mean it as a compliment or a rebuke. Perhaps you're charmed by Wan Lingyi's beauty and feel the need to scold me?"
Then, pretending to be hurt, she continued, "Very well, Your Majesty has a lovely companion. I shan't intrude on your enjoyment. I've picked enough plum blossoms and will take my leave."
After this playful exchange, Wan Lingyi could only think of calling Fang Yun a vixen, feeling helpless.
Afraid that Fang Yun's words would make Pei Yao pity her and leave, Wan Lingyi quickly interjected.
"Your Highness, please don't misunderstand. You are the one closest to His Majesty's heart. How could he ever criticize you because of me? It was my fault for suggesting we see the plums, causing this minor misunderstanding. Please forgive me."
With a hurried bow, she appeared contrite.
This, in turn, made Fang Yun seem unreasonable.
Noticing Wan Lingyi's improvement, Fang Yun's eyes glinted playfully, feeling more spirited.
She thought, "You're vying for favor; I'm not blocking your way. But if you provoke me, I'll show you the consequence."
Determined, Fang Yun quickly changed her expression and stepped forward to lift Wan Lingyi.
"Don't worry, I'm not upset. His Majesty just said I enjoy teasing. How could you take it seriously? You are considerate and sensible, always by His Majesty's side. That reassures me."
Fang Yun's sudden shift from playful vixen to gentle, understanding consort left Wan Lingyi momentarily confused.
After glancing at both Pei Yao and Wan Lingyi, Fang Yun continued.
"I manage the six palaces and took some time to gather plum blossoms. His Majesty always needs companions. You, being young, beautiful, and from a good family, should serve him well and bear his children. That's something I can no longer do."
Realizing Fang Yun's new angle, Wan Lingyi shyly nodded respectfully.
"Don't worry, Your Highness, I will serve His Majesty well."
Unexpectedly, Fang Yun let a tear fall, quickly wiping it away before bowing to Pei Yao.
"With Wan Lingyi by Your Majesty's side, I am at ease. The cold wind is bothering me, so I shall take my leave."
Without hesitation, she turned and left.
Wan Lingyi, bewildered by the swift change, saw Pei Yao take a step after Fang Yun, looking torn.
Initially, she thought Fang Yun was acting gracious in front of the Emperor, making herself appear well-behaved.
But upon closer thought, she realized Fang Yun's move was to elicit Pei Yao's pity and guilt.
Understanding this, Wan Lingyi quickly addressed Pei Yao.
"Your Majesty, did I upset the consort? Why did she seem to shed a tear?"
Her eyes filled with innocence and concern, suggesting her actions were unintentional.
However, Pei Yao, recalling Fang Yun's tears and hurried departure, was in no mood to listen.
Frowning, he said, "Don't worry. You can go back. Zhao Fei isn't well and might feel unwell from the cold. I should check on her."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Wan Lingyi replied reluctantly, unable to hide her displeasure.
Watching Pei Yao leave, she bit her lip in frustration.
She regretted her earlier sharp words and sulking attitude.
Still, she muttered, "Zhao Fei is truly sly, her acting would suit the opera!"
"Be careful with your words, Lingyi!" Maotao warned, frightened. "The Emperor hasn't gone far, and there are many ears in the garden. Don't let others hear and spread rumors."
Wan Lingyi, still fuming, kicked the snow in frustration before turning to leave.
Meanwhile, Pei Yao hurriedly caught up with Fang Yun, grabbing her arm.
She reluctantly turned, tears no longer present but with traces of dried tear marks on her cheeks, her eyes and nose slightly red, making her pale skin look even more delicate.
"Why are you rushing off like this? Aren't you afraid of slipping?" Pei Yao frowned, his tone softening unconsciously.
Fang Yun bit her lower lip, trying to pull her arm away. "Why did Your Majesty follow? Don't leave Wan Lingyi alone in the garden, letting her suffer the cold. I'm fine with so many people around."
"If you're fine, why the tears?" Pei Yao didn't let go, pulling her closer. "Alright, I know she had some petty thoughts, trying to make you look bad. I won't believe her. Don't you know me?"
"Then why didn't Your Majesty say anything earlier? You just waited for me to speak up and argue with her. But I didn't dare, fearing you'd be annoyed at my pettiness. So I made a few jokes and had to comfort her when she got scared, making me look like a fool."
Finally expressing her frustration, Fang Yun's tears flowed again as she turned her head and lowered her gaze.
"I was wrong and impulsive. Punish me, Your Majesty."
Seeing her like this, Pei Yao smiled helplessly, pulling her into his embrace and gently patting her back.
"Don't say such foolish things. This little temper is the real you. How could I punish you? Alright, today was my fault. I should've dismissed her sooner to come see you. I had planned to see you today."
YOU ARE READING
The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)
RomanceAuthor: Huatang Xiuge Translator: Me (Xiaobai) 东宫掌娇 Upon entering the Eastern Palace, Fang Yun lived cautiously, burdened by the label of a substitute bride and daughter of a traitor. She knew well that, as a daughter of low birth, she had been cas...
