In the carriage, Yang Ning settled into the plush seat, resting against the carriage wall, supported by a cushy pillow. Across from her, Zheng Liang took the window seat, ensuring the wooden door was shut to keep the wind at bay. A delicate curtain added an extra layer of protection, shielding them from the outside world.
The royal carriage, adorned with the Crown Prince's crest glided through the streets and the onlookers respectfully cleared a path. The marching guards, a formidable presence around the carriage, commanded attention. The people, recognizing the significance, bowed in deference as the carriage gracefully moved through their midst.
As the crowd respectfully bowed, parting to make way for the royal carriage, Yang Ning and Zheng Liang were lost in their own world inside. With his thumb, Zheng Liang gently massaged the back of Yang Ning's hand as he inquired, "Did you have a good time today? Since it was your first ladies' party, did anyone say anything to you?" He asked with concern, wary of any potential disrespect towards her.
Yang Ning shook her head with a smile and reassured Zheng Liang, "Who would dare say anything to me? I am the Crown Princess, after all." Still riding the high of her victorious day, she continued with enthusiasm, "I had so much fun. Though it started a bit dull, it got exciting later, and I even made a new friend."
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" I had so many delicious treats and succeeded in the archery game. Can you believe it? I aced it with a perfect score! As a reward, Lady Guo promised to tailor a dress just for me. And that's not all—I get a lifetime discount at her boutiques and special treatment whenever I visit. Isn't that thrilling?" Her face lit up with a bright smile.
Zheng Liang smiled, pleased to see Yang Ning so happy. Unbeknownst to her, the special treatment was something she was destined to receive as the Crown Princess and future Empress of the Empire. They couldn't treat her like an ordinary person, and the discounts were hardly necessary for them.
Despite knowing this, Zheng Liang had no intention of bursting Yang Ning's bubble of happiness. He wanted her to relish in the victory and the well-deserved rewards she earned through her efforts.
"My wife is truly amazing. I have witnessed your exceptional skill with the bow and arrows. No one can match your prowess in archery; winning was only natural for you," he complimented, gently patting her head. His words made her blush with a mix of happiness and embarrassment.
Yang Ning smiled, but a curious expression crossed her face. She looked at him and asked, "I was wondering... why did you suddenly come to the Guo Residence? You didn't mention anything this morning about picking me up. Besides, I arrived in my carriage, so there was no need for you to come." She questioned him, seeking an explanation.
His worry stemmed from the fear that Zhu Yating might harbor resentment for being turned down as a potential second wife. He was concerned that she might attempt to create trouble for Yang Ning. To counter this, he decided to halt all his activities and went to the Guo Residence to pick up Yang Ning in a grand manner.
He intended to remind everyone that Yang Ning was his one and only wife, cherished to the core. He wanted to make it clear that he would never allow anyone to disrespect her.
After confessing the truth to Yang Ning, Zheng Liang hesitated, observing her deep in thought. Her stoic expressions left him unable to decipher her emotions—was she angry, or perhaps jealous?
Clearing his throat, he spoke in a soft, gentle tone, "My love, you don't need to worry about anything. In this lifetime, I will not take any other wife than you."
Yang Ning looked at him, her laughter surprising him. She wore a bright smile as she said, "Well, that's a given. If you dared to take another wife, I would also leave the palace and find a handsome man for myself. I believe in equality, you see! You get a second wife, and I will get a second husband." She smirked provocatively, darkening his expression at the mention of another man.
Before he could respond, she continued, "But don't worry. That day won't come because, in this world, you're the most handsome man in my eyes."
"Of course, you're the most handsome man in this world. You're the male lead after all,' Yang Ning thought, acknowledging that finding a man as handsome as Zheng Liang might be quite a challenge.
Zheng Liang chuckled, appreciating how his wife knew how to compliment and make him jealous simultaneously. Though relieved that she didn't take things seriously, he heard her say, "Now I understand. I thought Zhu Yating didn't like me because of my so-called stepmother, but the real reason behind her animosity was you."
She chuckled and added, "If I had known about this, I would have teased her some more. Ah, I missed that opportunity. But no worries, I can do that later."
Confused, Zheng Liang asked, "Later? Do you plan to meet her again?"
She smiled and replied, "Why not? She almost became my husband's second wife. I should treat her well." Her words left Zheng Liang sighing in helplessness, sensing that something was brewing in her mind, yet unable to discern her plans.