Chapter 34

Chapter 34

She turned her head to look at Zong Jincheng, who appeared utterly bewildered, as if he didn't recognize the situation.

The Duchess of Jin quickly chimed in, "Your Highness, this is Zong Jincheng, Zong Zhao's son, and he just turned eight this year."

She emphasized the name "Zong Zhao" heavily, fearing that the Crown Prince might not recognize the child or realize he was the son of someone the Crown Prince detested.

Everyone knew that Zong Zhao and the Crown Prince had grown up together, close as brothers. But eight years ago, they had a massive falling out, and since then, they had become virtual strangers, not even speaking to each other. Whenever someone mentioned Zong Zhao's name in front of the Crown Prince, it would cause him to frown, clearly indicating the depth of their animosity.

Xu Wan was also aware of this.

Before entering the palace, to avoid making mistakes at the Eastern Palace, she had asked Cui Zhi about the social connections of Marquis Manor, inquiring if they had any close allies or enemies among the court officials.

Cui Zhi had replied that Marquis Manor didn't engage much with others, and the only person they might have offended was the Crown Prince. However, given the Crown Prince's good nature, it was unlikely he would make things difficult for a woman like her.

After meeting the Crown Prince in person, Xu Wan was even more convinced of this.

Once the Crown Prince confirmed Zong Jincheng's identity, his eyes fixed solely on the boy, examining him from head to toe. Suddenly, he remarked, "You've grown so much."

Zong Jincheng returned his gaze, his dark, luminous eyes filled with confusion. "Do you know me?"

The Crown Prince smiled. "When you were born, I held you in my arms."

Xu Wan, with her sharp eyes, noticed a hint of bitterness in his smile.

Could there be some deeper connection between the Crown Prince and Jincheng?

Xu Wan couldn't help but wonder. Everyone knew that Zong Jincheng was Zong Zhao's eldest son, but his mother's identity was unknown. Marquis Manor had firmly registered him as the legitimate son. Could his mother have had a connection with the Crown Prince?

"Oh, I don't remember you," Zong Jincheng replied honestly.

"That's alright," the Crown Prince said, patting his head. "Tell me, what's going on here?"

The Duchess of Jin grew anxious at this. "Your Highness, why are you...?"

Before she could finish, the Crown Prince shot her a warning glance.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have cursed at Young Master Zong. Please forgive my careless words, Madam Zong and Young Master Zong!"

Zong Jincheng huffed and turned his face away.

The Duchess of Jin's face turned pale with anger.

This little brat! Once she left the Eastern Palace, she would make him pay!

Xu Wan, noticing the fury in her eyes, quickly interjected, "The Duchess of Jin is very gracious. Please don't take it to heart, considering he's just a child."

The Duchess of Jin clenched her teeth, forcing a smile. "Of course not..."

The Crown Princess, observing the tense atmosphere, quickly stepped in to smooth things over. "Alright, now that the matter is resolved, everyone, please come inside. The palace has prepared fruits and pastries for all to enjoy."

"The Crown Princess has gone to great lengths. I heard there are even green grapes, we must have a taste."

"There's plenty. The Emperor has bestowed many on the various palaces. Please, help yourselves."

The Crown Princess led the crowd inside, and the Duchess of Jin followed them.

Xu Wan was about to call for Zong Jincheng and Zong Wenxiu to join her when the Crown Prince suddenly stood beside Zong Jincheng, patting his little head. "Jincheng, come and sit with me."

Xu Wan: "!!!"

What kind of secret relationship do you two have?!

How can you be so clingy after just meeting?!

Zong Jincheng, having just been helped by the Crown Prince to teach Zhai Yao a lesson and to stand up to the Duchess of Jin, was already fond of him. He agreed immediately, "Okay!"

The two walked off together, chatting and laughing, leaving Xu Wan and Zong Wenxiu staring at each other.

Zong Wenxiu timidly said, "The Crown Prince seems to really like my brother. I don't think anything bad will happen..."

Xu Wan gave a dry laugh. "He won't have any problems. We, on the other hand, will."

"Huh? Why?"