Chapter 51: A Play to Be Performed

Xu Wanning couldn’t help but blush, “You’re so annoying!”

Thinking back to her arrogant demeanor at that time, her clothes and jewelry were luxurious and extravagant. But today, she realized that Wang Baochuan wasn’t a person who indulged in luxury. She must have deliberately put on that act to provoke her.

She was deeply touched, but unfortunately, she didn’t understand Wang Baochuan’s good intentions at the time. She even suspected that she was trying to steal Xue Pinggui.

“Since you’re not giving up, I have an idea.” Wang Baochuan smiled and came up with a plan for her.

“What idea?”

“You can arrange for people to spread the news that you’re still waiting for Xue Pinggui in the Cold Cave. Then we’ll see if he’ll come back to find you.”

Xu Wanning was a clever person. She immediately understood Wang Baochuan’s meaning, “Good!”

She still had a glimmer of hope in her heart, hoping that Xue Pinggui was forced by circumstances in Xiliang and that he truly loved her.

Following Wang Baochuan’s advice, Xu Wanning secretly returned to the Xu Mansion, but she let people in the surrounding suburbs spread the news that she was living in the Cold Cave.

Trade between Xiliang and the Tang Dynasty became increasingly frequent. Day after day, Xu Wanning didn’t wait for any news from Xue Pinggui.

In the capital, the Third Prince’s Mansion.

Two months ago, Li Chen returned to the capital from Qinzhou because the Empress Dowager was ill. He had been training troops in Qinzhou for half a year, suppressing bandits, and improving the lives of the people. Wherever he went, the people lived in peace and prosperity.

At the same time, the Qinzhou army had also contributed a lot to the Tang Dynasty’s war with Xiliang. Although the Emperor didn’t praise him, many officials praised him for his actions.

Li Chen also brought back a doctor from Qinzhou this time, who cured the Empress Dowager’s illness. The Emperor praised him for his composure and rewarded him with some silks and treasures.

He had made a splash this time, and naturally, some people were jealous of him. He wasn’t comfortable in the capital these past few days.

Bai Song entered the study with a tray of tea. Li Chen was in the study dealing with matters related to military horses and grain.

“Your Highness.”

“Put it down.” Li Chen didn’t look up when he heard his voice.

“News came from the palace that the Consort was reprimanded by the Empress again.” Bai Song said cautiously.

Li Chen slowly raised his head, “Bai Song, do you think what I’ve done is wrong?”

“Your Highness, you’re not wrong. It’s those people who are being too much.” Bai Song was a little indignant. They were all the Emperor’s sons. Why were the Crown Prince and the Second Prince so arrogant, while their Highness had to be respectful and cautious all the time?

“Your Highness, I think you should take advantage of the Empress Dowager’s current favor towards you and ask her for an imperial decree, asking her to grant you and Miss Wang a marriage.” Bai Song thought to himself that if His Highness had the support of the Prime Minister, he would be able to stand firm in the court.

“Audacious!” Li Chen looked displeased, “How many times have I told you? Don’t say this in the mansion, and don’t say it outside!”

“What is my situation and my mother’s situation? What is the Wang family’s situation? She’s now living comfortably as Miss Wang. How can I drag her into the mud?”

“But you have no support in the court. It’s harder than climbing to heaven to get things done.” Bai Song lowered his head and whispered in defense.

Li Chen sneered, “So what if it’s like climbing to heaven? I will never use her.”

He had already thought about it. What he was planning was extremely dangerous. If he failed, he would be doomed. If he succeeded, he would ask Miss Wang if she was willing to stand at the highest point with him.

“Yes, Your Highness, I spoke out of turn.” Bai Song lowered his head respectfully, not daring to say anything more.

“Ah Song…”

“Your Highness.”

“I’m a little tired. I want to go for a walk.” Li Chen looked at the scenery outside the door, dejected.

“Yes, I’ll go and arrange it.”