Chapter 100

C100 – Betrothal Presents

Yueyang Marquis scrutinized his son with a long, contemplative gaze. He couldn’t fathom why the Crown Prince had taken such a keen interest in him. Was it merely to reciprocate some favor?

“Has His Highness ever confided in you about his feelings?” Yueyang Marquis fretted that his son’s youthful naivety might lead him astray, clouded by the allure of power.

It must be acknowledged that a marriage between men wasn’t exactly well-regarded. While such relationships existed among the common folk, they were often choices made out of desperation rather than genuine affection.

The title of Crown Princess sounded lovely, but it would seem rather out of place atop a man’s head.

If the Crown Prince had a genuine interest in their daughter, Yueyang Marquis would readily prepare the dowry without hesitation.

Tang Yue hesitated briefly before nodding. “I assumed he was jesting.”

“Do you comprehend the implications of marrying the Crown Prince?”

“What do you mean?”

Wang Yao continued, “The king is in his prime and in good health, but the princes have ambitions of their own. While the Crown Prince is capable, ascending to the throne won’t be without challenges.”

In essence, Tang Yue would be exposed to considerably greater risks if he decided to become involved.

“I fear my son might bring trouble to our family.” This was Tang Yue’s primary concern.

Yueyang Marquis gazed at Tang Yue’s sincere expression, and his heart softened into a muddle. “Yue’er, you’re worrying excessively. Although our Marquis’s Mansion may not hold as lofty a status as the seven dukes and three dukes, who in Ye City wouldn’t extend me their respect? If we truly back a prince’s claim to the throne, I will wholeheartedly support the Crown Prince. You needn’t fret over this.”

Tang Yue rolled his eyes and moved closer to his father, inquiring tentatively, “Could you provide me with a brief overview of the court’s situation? I wouldn’t want to be clueless about everything once I’m married.”

Yueyang Marquis gave him a disapproving look. “Is my son growing up too quickly? You’re already worried about such matters even before the marriage.”

“I have a strategist, Mr. Xuan Jing, in my service. When you’re married, I’ll assign him to assist you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to consult him.”

“Mr. Xuan Jing?” The name sounded enigmatic. Could this person possibly be a reclusive master?

Furthermore, it had been quite some time since anyone had seen him at Marquis’s Mansion. Where could he have hidden himself?

Could he be one of those experts who come and go without leaving a trace?

Just as the father and son were reaching an agreement, Prince Zhao’s Mansion impatiently sent over the betrothal gifts, along with offerings from the palace.

Tang Yue was astounded by Li Zhao’s efficiency. Not only did he manage to acquire so many gifts in such a short span, but he also found a way to evade his parents. How did he pull it off?

Nevertheless, Tang Yue couldn’t deny that Li Zhao’s eagerness made him feel a sense of pride.

It was heartwarming to have someone care so deeply for him, even if it was partly due to his own talents.

As soon as Tang Yue left the room, he sensed an unfamiliar and powerful aura. People he encountered on his way treated him with profound respect. They bowed more earnestly than usual, some even prostrating themselves without rising.

Tang Yue’s smile froze on his face. When he arrived at the main hall, his expression was hidden by the festive atmosphere.

The gifts he bestowed upon his seven sisters were of a more conventional nature, featuring high-quality fabrics. The hairpins and other items for the youngest were both exquisite and precious, yet practical.

This demonstrated the sincerity Prince Lee Zhao had invested in his selections. While his words may have been few, his intentions were undeniable.

Besides the gifts intended for everyone in the Yueyang Marquis’s Mansion, the remaining presents were all dowry gifts, filling more than half of the hall. An abundance of boxes and cages were adorned with vibrant red silk and tied with crimson flowers. The festive atmosphere was palpable.

In his previous life, Tang Yue had never experienced marriage, so he had missed out on the joy it brought. Now, enveloped in this jubilant ambiance, he felt his entire being relax, overwhelmed by a blend of emotions.

“Brother, will you still be around after getting married?” Tang Yun scampered over on her little legs and inquired.

Tang Yue affectionately pinched her plump cheeks. Despite her youth, he could already discern the promise of her future beauty. He had seen her biological mother once—an elegant and graceful beauty from Jiangnan.

“Ah Yun, do you want Brother to stay with you at home?” Tang Yue teased her.

“Yes,” Tang Yun affirmed with a nod, listing the perks of having her brother at home.

“With Brother here, Ah Yun can enjoy delicious candies and snacks, receive beautiful hairpins, and witness Brother’s heroic deeds.”

“Ahem... Ah Yun, don’t fabricate stories. When has Brother ever engaged in heroic deeds?”

Ah Yun scanned the area but couldn’t spot the person she was seeking. She gestured with her hand and remarked, “It’s that rather... rotund young master.”

Marquis’s Wife was the first to express her displeasure, reprimanding, “Ah Yun, how can you be so impolite? Noble Heir will be your future brother-in-law.”

Tang Yue noticed that Tang Yun was startled by Marquis’s Wife’s stern expression. He scooped her up and clarified, “Ah Yun is referring to that individual. He is the Noble Heir of State Duke Heng, Ya’s fiancé. He’s not round anymore. You can use a different word.”

Tang Yue added, stealing a glance at Tang Ya. He noticed that her initial resistance had faded. Instead, her expression was subdued, devoid of any joy.

Upon reflection, it made sense. Even if Ping Shun shed some weight, he wouldn’t transform into a dashing young gentleman. He was likely rather simple-minded. Winning the heart of a beauty would indeed be a challenging endeavor.

Over the past couple of days, Tang Yue had paid little attention to that young man. He had no idea where he had gone off to. In any case, most of the guards in his courtyard were “engaged” with him. He wasn’t concerned about losing track of him.

“Brother, what does ‘fiancé’ mean?” Tang Yun furrowed her brow and pondered for a while.

“Well... You’ll understand when you grow up, Ah Yun,” Tang Yue replied, unsure of how to broach the topic of marriage to a young girl.

“Speaking of which, does His Highness have a marriage proposal? And when is the wedding scheduled?” Yueyang Marquis interjected.

“It’s here. The wedding date is set for the Laba Festival just before the New Year. We’re in a bit of a rush,” the elderly mistress said, her brow furrowing. She wished she could ask her son to postpone the date, but the words remained unspoken.

Her grandson had only returned a few months ago, and now he was getting married. The lady sat in the temple hall the entire night, grappling with the fact that her only grandson was about to be wed.

“Your Highness seems rather eager,” Yueyang Marquis remarked, casting a knowing glance at his son, causing Tang Yue to blush.

He couldn’t reveal that the Crown Prince highly valued his abilities and had proposed this marriage to further his own plans, could he?

Tang Yue didn’t believe it himself, let alone anyone else.

So, why was that young man in such a hurry to marry him? Tang Yue had a vague answer in his heart, but he couldn’t quite believe it.