Chapter 31

Before long, people from Prince An’s Mansion arrived with loud gongs and drums, carrying streams of betrothal gifts. Chests tied with red silk were carried from the gate all the way into the Front Hall.

Crowds of onlookers formed circle after circle at the entrance. Yin Jiuyi, dressed in a red robe, sat atop a tall white horse, holding two wild geese in his hands.

He dismounted, walking through the crowd. His devilishly handsome face left the onlookers holding their breath.

Perhaps this is the brightest, most dignified day of my life.

That day, after I woke up in Prince An’s Mansion, Yin Jiuyi confessed to me that he did not like women. He also said that, if I needed it, he would marry me.

I stared at him for a long while, then nodded, and tore apart the imperial decree that had bestowed me as the Crown Prince’s Side Consort right in front of him.

That day, his face overlapped with the one I see now-clear, handsome eyes, straight brows, lips as red as vermilion-a truly beautiful face. Walking among the crowd, he was like the moon and stars amidst rubble.

There was no need for Yin Jiuyi to come in person for the betrothal, yet he still showed up at my door.

My father could never have imagined things would turn out like this. His sharp, astonished gaze swept over, full of disbelief, lingering coldly on me for a long moment before suddenly shifting to Yin Jiuyi.

After a few indifferent courtesies, my father snorted coldly and entered the mansion with his hands behind his back.

I walked beside Yin Jiuyi, my emotions indescribable.

“Other than the fifth day of the eleventh lunar month, the best date left for the latter half of this year is the twelfth day of the tenth month,” Yin Jiuyi said to me. “Is this date too rushed? If you think it’s too soon, I can go back and choose another.”

I shook my head. “This date is perfect. No need to pick another.”

“Your Highness, truly, thank you.” Staring at the fallen leaves on the ground, I said, “I used to wonder what kind of person I would marry in the future. Being able to marry you, I feel especially lucky.”

He paused, silent for a long time, then suddenly reached out to pat my head. “You’re so beautiful. Having you at home will be a joy for the eyes. It’s no loss for me either.”

After a cup of tea, I saw Yin Jiuyi out. After stepping out of the mansion gate, he turned to me and asked, “The day after tomorrow is your birthday. Why not let me take you to Prince An’s Mansion for a look?”

My birthday is on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. How did he know?

He seemed to have anticipated my confusion, pulling a marriage horoscope card from his chest and pointing at it.

I declined his kind offer, smiling and shrugging. “Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, but I’m not used to being the center of attention. It would be awkward, maybe even strange.”

Just then, the neighing of a horse came from behind. I turned around to see a bay horse suddenly rearing up on its hind legs. Yin Jiuqing had dismounted and stood where he was, staring at the two of us, clutching the reins so tightly that his chest heaved.

“Qiuhe,” he called softly. His eyes instantly reddened.