Hearing Yu Jingchen's words, Nan Zhiyun's face instantly turned red. "Naughty..."
"Hm? Why is Yun'er not speaking anymore? Do you want to check yourself?" Yu Jingchen said, taking Nan Zhiyun's hand and placing it on his waist. With his other hand, he let down the bed curtains, concealing the infinite spring scenery within.
The next day
Yun Peng Palace
All the imperial consorts came to pay their respects, but two were conspicuously absent: Bai Yusheng, who had just been promoted to Imperial Concubine Bai, and Nan Zhiyun.
"It's understandable that Consort Shu wouldn't come, as she's always been a heavy sleeper, it's quite normal. But Imperial Concubine Bai, having just entered the palace, doesn't even come to pay respects. Does she have no regard for rules? She's clearly not putting the Noble Consort in her eyes!" It was the fearless Virtuous Consort, speaking again.
"Imperial Concubine Bai attended His Majesty's summons yesterday. She must be tired, which is why she's not here today." This time, it was the usually silent Consort Yuan who spoke. Her voice was gentle, seemingly defending Bai Yusheng.
"I heard she couldn't even stand. Such tactics, she's a shameless wretch who knows no decency." Yu Yan's eyes were filled with disgust.
"Jing Cairen, be mindful of your words!" Noble Consort Yan warned Yu Yan. Yu Yan moved her lips but ultimately said nothing.
Noble Consort Yan glanced at those below before speaking slowly, "The spring hunt is in another half a month. Instead of talking nonsense here, it's better to prepare for the spring hunt."
"Yes," the people below replied respectfully.
The spring hunt... this was a great opportunity. Both newcomers and veterans began to form their plans.
After the morning court ended, Yu Jingchen, as expected, went to He An Palace. Nan Zhiyun had just woken up and finished her breakfast. As the weather had warmed, Nan Zhiyun was no longer as sensitive to the cold.
She was currently sitting on the swing outside, holding Lingdang. The sun was out today, a rare occurrence, and its warm rays fell upon her, feeling quite comfortable.
Lingdang, in particular, was fast asleep on Nan Zhiyun's lap, even snoring softly, appearing incredibly lazy.
The moment Yu Jingchen entered, he saw the woman and the cat sitting there. His heart softened. Was this foolish cat too comfortable?
"Your Majesty!" Nan Zhiyun saw Yu Jingchen approaching from afar. She no longer cared as much about etiquette as she used to.
"Are you feeling unwell?" Yu Jingchen's lips curved slightly. Last night, he couldn't restrain himself and had taken her a few extra times, leaving Nan Zhiyun in tears.
Nan Zhiyun's face flushed slightly, and she shook her head. "I'm fine..."
Yu Jingchen walked over and stood behind Nan Zhiyun, gently pushing the swing. Lingdang was startled awake and jumped off Nan Zhiyun's lap. Jiang Ji picked up Lingdang and then withdrew.
"If you feel unwell, have the imperial physician examine you," Yu Jingchen's voice was gentle.
Nan Zhiyun turned to look at Yu Jingchen. "No need, I'm fine." Nan Zhiyun's eyebrows curved slightly. Yu Jingchen's heart throbbed, and he leaned down to kiss her. Nan Zhiyun froze.
The young girl on the swing tilted her head slightly. Yu Jingchen bent down and kissed her lips. The sunlight fell, infinitely gentle.
It was a brief kiss. Yu Jingchen soon released Nan Zhiyun. The girl's cheeks were flushed a rosy red, her lips plump and pink, making one's heart soften. Seeing her bewildered expression, he found it amusing.
"My precious little girl," Yu Jingchen lightly stroked her nose.