In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, the Jiangs make a strategic move to secure a marriage alliance between a late bloomer, Jiang Ying, and the crown prince, Lan Xichen. However, their plans are disrupted when Jiang Ying is abducted before the mee...
Being rudely awakened early in the morning is not how Nie Huaisang wants to start his day. But he has no choice, as Yu Ziyuan orders Jiang Ying to attend breakfast with the imperial family. It is the second day of being forced to act like Jiang Ying, and he is not appreciated unless it's his plan. Reluctantly, he drags himself out of bed to apply light makeup and cover his face with a veil before meeting Jiang Yanli at the door.
Jiang Yanli glances around before lifting the veil from Nie Huaisang's face and drawing something near his lip. It may be useful if they get into trouble. She drops the veil and holds his hand, accompanying him to the dining hall while sharing what is going on. "Someone sent a message questioning Father: 'Behind the veil is a late bloomer or a fake bloomer?'"
Nie Huaisang stops in his tracks and turns to look at her. "Then the kidnapper must be with us, watching our every move." He pauses, taking a deep breath before continuing, "If my guess is correct, A-Ying is not with them. He would have already escaped and found a way back home. The one behind this is uncertain whether the person here is A-Ying, so they have temporarily halted their plan. We need to be extra cautious until we know for sure who is behind all this."
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Jiang Yanli nods in a daze, wondering why there is a strange weight in the pit of her stomach instead of the profound relief she should feel because her naïve brother is out there struggling for his life and facing the challenges alone. "I hope A-Cheng finds A-Ying soon and brings him home," she says, blinking away the tears welling up in her eyes while trying to put on a brave front for the challenges ahead.
Breakfast is going well. The Jiang family and the imperial family are discussing the arrangements and preparations for the joyous occasion ahead. The room is filled with excitement and anticipation as they talk about the most auspicious date for the marriage and the traditional customs to be followed. Everyone is eager to ensure that every detail is perfect for the union, except for Crown Prince Lan Xichen, who steals glances at his said-to-be future mate.
Understanding, Jiang Fengmian suggests that they take a break from planning and go for a walk in the garden to clear their minds and relax. Lan Xichen eagerly agrees, grateful for the chance to spend some time alone with his future mate. He extends his hand toward his trembling mate, who shares a glance with his sister before hesitantly joining him for a stroll around the garden.
"So, Jiang Ying, what have you been up to lately?" Lan Xichen asks with a small smile, trying to get along with his future mate using generic topics. He can't bring up things that the other doesn't know about.
"Not much, just trying to keep up with my studies and training," Nie Huaisang replies, deciding to ignore the trembling in his body.
"Well, I heard you enjoy painting. Have you been working on any new pieces recently?" Lan Xichen continues, striving to keep the conversation light and casual.
Nie Huaisang's eyes light up at the mention of painting, one thing he shares in common with his friend. "Yes, actually, I've been working on painting a fan with..." He bites his tongue at the slip-up and quickly corrects himself. "What I mean is a fantasy of a mountain landscape with cherry blossoms." He huffs out a small laugh, feeling a sense of relief at the quick save. It is really difficult to pretend to be someone else, especially when they're being closely watched. "You owe me, A-Ying."
