I'll steal Gao Qiu's life and lead the Song Dynasty to prosperity.

Chapter 107 Conferring Imperial Titles and Entering the Bridal Chamber

In the third year of Yuanfu, at the end of the first month, Zhao Mingcheng got married.

From early morning, the Zhao and Li residences were decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, and servants were bustling about, creating a festive atmosphere.

As some previous discussions had predicted, the number of guests who came to offer their congratulations was not as large as expected, with a constant stream of cars and a large number of dignitaries.

Although there was a constant stream of carriages and horses in front of the Zhao residence, upon closer inspection, most of them were relatives and old friends of the two families, or ordinary colleagues of Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei from the Ministry of Rites, the Imperial Academy, and other government offices.

Many officials came out of politeness, presented their gifts, sat for a short while, and left without lingering.

And those figures who held prominent positions in the court, clearly distinguishing between the new and old parties and wielding great power, were almost entirely absent.

Some of the core members of the New Party who had once maintained close ties with Zhao Tingzhi either developed a rift with him because of the marriage alliance between the Zhao family and the Old Party, or withdrew to avoid suspicion.

Some of the old party's upright members, because of Zhao Mingcheng's labels as a "new party member" and "favored official from the prince's residence," and others because of their ambivalence about this cross-party marriage, mostly chose to send gifts instead of coming in person.

The wedding was held in the inner hall, with red candles burning brightly, brocade curtains and embroidered veils, and all the rituals were performed meticulously.

However, there were quite a few empty seats at the table, and the conversation and laughter were not very lively.

Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei, the two in-laws, were dressed in brand-new auspicious clothes and had proper smiles on their faces as they moved among the relatives and friends who came to offer their congratulations.

But when the two old men's eyes occasionally met, they could see the感慨 (gǎnkǎi, a complex emotion encompassing both feelings and reflections) in each other's eyes.

They were actually prepared for this.

When the two of them decided to get married, they anticipated that they might face such a "lonely" situation.

The marriage of Zhao Mingcheng and Li Qingzhao is considered a beautiful story by some.

In the eyes of many, it may be a symbol of "unsteady stance" or "political opportunism," pleasing neither side.

But when the prediction came true and I personally experienced this alienation and cold treatment caused by political differences, I couldn't help but feel a little sting and sigh, the pride that belonged to a scholar and the pride that belonged to a father.

"Uncle Wen, it seems that we two old bones are going to have to put on a cold show today."

Taking advantage of the break, Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei avoided the crowd and talked in hushed tones under the corridor, Zhao Tingzhi's tone somewhat self-deprecating.

Li Gefei sighed and stroked his beard.

"Alas—such is the way of the world, it's not unexpected. It's just that the two children have suffered, today should have been a joyous day—"

Li Gefei gazed at the newlyweds performing the fan-returning ceremony in the inner hall.

Zhao Mingcheng was tall and dignified, with a calm demeanor; his daughter Li Qingzhao, though covering her face with a fan, was graceful and elegant, her charm beginning to emerge.

The two were a perfect match, a match made in heaven, but the political strife added a touch of loneliness to their relationship.

"Children and grandchildren have their own blessings. As long as they are well, we don't need all this empty excitement."

Zhao Tingzhi suppressed his frustration and comforted his old friend, as well as himself.

As they were talking, the doorman suddenly raised his voice to announce their arrival.

"The Heir Apparent of the Duke of Qi has arrived!"

This announcement stirred a few ripples in the otherwise quiet wedding venue.

The heir of the Duke of Qi is none other than Zhao Xiaoyi.

Zhao Xiaoyi was a close relative of the imperial family, and by seniority, he was the nephew of the current emperor, Zhao Ji, and thus held a noble status.

more importantly.

He had been acquainted with Zhao Ji and Zhao Mingcheng when he was at the Prince Duan's residence, and they often played football together, so they had a good relationship.

Zhao Xiaoyi's personal visit is of great significance, as it represents the imperial court's intentions.

Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei quickly straightened their clothes and went out to greet them.

A young member of the royal family, in his early twenties, dressed in luxurious everyday clothes and with clear, bright features, walked in with several attendants carrying gift boxes, smiling.

"Your humble servant Zhao Tingzhi (Li Gefei) respectfully welcomes Your Highness! Your presence is an honor to our humble abode!"

The two bowed in greeting.

Zhao Xiaoyi, with his cheerful personality, quickly offered a helping hand.

"Minister Zhao, Master Li, there's no need for such formalities. Today is Brother Mingcheng's joyous occasion; how could I not come to ask for a cup of celebratory wine?"

Back in the Prince's residence, I drank quite a bit with Brother Mingcheng, and we were even football buddies! This small gift is nothing but a token of my congratulations to the newlyweds on their marriage and wishing them many children!

Zhao Xiaoyi spoke casually and warmly, without any airs of royalty, which greatly enlivened the atmosphere.

Zhao Mingcheng also rushed over upon hearing the news and bowed deeply to Zhao Xiaoyi.

"Your Highness's kindness is deeply appreciated! Please take a seat!"

Zhao Xiaoyi patted Zhao Mingcheng on the shoulder, winked, and chuckled softly.

"Brother Mingcheng, His Majesty originally wanted to come in person, but the Empress Dowager dissuaded him. However, rest assured, there will certainly be a generous reward later!"

Zhao Xiaoyi's arrival was like a signal.

Immediately afterwards, the doorman's voice announced the arrival of gifts, which seemed to carry an unusual weight.

"Wang Shan, Military Commissioner of Xihe Road and Prefect of Xizhou, sends his congratulatory gifts!"

"General Zhong Puzhong, Military Commander of Qin Feng Road and Prefect of Minzhou, sends his congratulatory gifts!"

"General Liu Zhongwu, Prefect of Xining Prefecture and Protector-General of Longyou, sends his congratulatory gifts!"

"General Zhao Huaide (Blind General) of Guide, your congratulatory gifts have arrived!"

The arrival of these gifts together represents the attitude of the military on the front lines in the Hehuang region.

Wang Shan, Zhong Pu, and Liu Zhongwu were all border generals who fought alongside Zhao Mingcheng and made meritorious contributions when he pacified the Hehuang region last year. Xia Zheng also had a good relationship with Zhao Mingcheng.

Their gifts were not only substantial, but also a form of recognition and support, silently demonstrating Zhao Mingcheng's influence and connections within the military.

Of particular note is that along with Wang Shanhe's gifts, there was also a gift list signed "Tong Guan, Eastern Attendant of the Inner Palace."

Tong Guan's identity was sensitive, so his gift could only be given at that time.

Just as they were accepting the congratulatory gift, they heard the doorman sing loudly.

"Lord Zhang Shangying, the Imperial Secretary, has arrived!"

Zhang Shangying is now the newly appointed Secretary of the Imperial Secretariat, in charge of external affairs, holding a prestigious and important position. He is also a close confidant and protégé of Zeng Bu, the Privy Councilor.

His arrival can be seen as Zeng Bu's own attitude.

As Zhang Shangying entered, he first congratulated Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei, and then cupped his hands and smiled at Zhao Mingcheng.

"Prime Minister Zeng originally intended to come in person, but he was preoccupied with court affairs and could not get away. Therefore, he specially sent me to convey his congratulations. The Prime Minister said that Mingcheng is young and promising, a pillar of the country, and that his marriage is a match made in heaven."

This small gift, along with a congratulatory couplet personally written by the Prime Minister, is a token of my good wishes for a harmonious and loving marriage.

"7

Zhang Shangying was composed and spoke appropriately, fulfilling both the proper etiquette and clearly conveying Zeng Bu's high regard and support.

Zhang Shangying's arrival elevated the status of the wedding guests to another level.

Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei felt somewhat relieved, realizing that not everyone was entirely avoiding them because of partisan differences.

However, the real climax is yet to come.

Just as the master of ceremonies was about to begin the ceremony, a series of neat and rhythmic footsteps suddenly came from outside the mansion gate, along with the crisp cracking of firecrackers used for street cleaning.

This voice was all too familiar to the people and officials of Bianjing.

The imperial procession has arrived!

"An angel has arrived!"

A high-pitched, drawn-out "Greeting" sounded like a spell, instantly silencing the previously noisy Zhao residence.

All the guests, whether seated or standing, spontaneously stood up and turned their gazes toward the main entrance.

A group of eunuchs and imperial guards dressed in bright palace attire escorted a magnificent carriage, which stopped in front of the Zhao residence.

The carriage curtain was lifted, and Liang Shicheng, dressed in a brand-new vermilion-purple high-ranking eunuch's robe, slowly stepped down from the carriage, carrying a tray covered with bright yellow silk.

Behind him were several eunuchs carrying brocade boxes and lacquer chests of various sizes.

Liang Shicheng walked straight into the mansion without glancing to the side, under the gazes of countless people who were either astonished, envious, or inquisitive, and came to the incense table that had been set up beforehand.

The entire Zhao household, along with all the guests, had already knelt down in a great clatter, led by Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei.

"The Emperor has issued an edict."

Liang Shicheng's high-pitched and clear voice echoed in the quiet courtyard.

"Zhao Mingcheng, the Imperial Secretary and Director of the Imperial Library, and his bride, Lady Li, receive the imperial decree."

"Your subject (this humble woman) receives the imperial decree."

Zhao Mingcheng and Li Qingzhao, who had just been helped out and was wearing a red veil, knelt side by side in front of the incense table.

Liang Shicheng unfolded the imperial edict and read it aloud. The first half of the edict was Emperor Zhao Ji's congratulatory words on his subject's marriage, praising Zhao Mingcheng for his "diligence in serving the king" and "loyalty to the country," and commending Li Qingzhao for her "virtuous and gentle nature" and "suitability for her family."

Next came the reward.

Emperor Huizong of Song was quite generous.

The gifts included: a gold plaque inscribed with the words "A Perfect Match" by the Emperor himself; a set of palace-made red gold headdresses; and a bushel of pearls from the East China Sea.

Ten bolts of Shu brocade, two sets of purple Ding kiln porcelain—all kinds of items, all treasures of the imperial treasury, of considerable value, and even more precious was the honor of being "bestowed by the emperor".

However, before the amazement from these precious gifts had subsided, Liang Shicheng's next words made everyone, including Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei who were kneeling on the ground, gasp in shock!

"—Zhao Qing's wife, Li Qingzhao, is hereby granted the title of Yiren (宜人), a title bestowed by imperial decree."

pleasant!

These two words struck like a thunderclap in everyone's hearts!

According to the Song Dynasty's system of titles for wives of officials, the titles of officials' wives were determined by their husbands' official ranks.

Zhao Mingcheng was a Secretary of the Imperial Secretariat, a seventh-rank official, and his wife could be granted the title of "Anren" at the highest level according to regulations.

"Yiren" was usually a title given to the wife of a fifth-rank official.

The emperor's move was clearly an "extra honor" and a "special favor"!

This is not merely a gift of wealth; it is a direct bestowal of imperial favor and dignity upon the bride, an honor far exceeding the norm!

This means that from then on, when Li Qingzhao entered and exited the palace and participated in the court ceremonies of noblewomen, she would be of a higher status as a "Yiren" (a title for a court lady).

This honor is more precious than any gold or silver jewelry, and it sends a more powerful political signal—the emperor's favor towards Zhao Mingcheng has extended to his family, and he has even gone so far as to make an exception for them.

After a brief silence, Zhao Mingcheng and Li Qingzhao's voices rang out simultaneously, clear and respectful.

"Your Majesty's grace is boundless and immeasurable; even if I were to give my life, I could not repay it!"

With a smile, Liang Shicheng placed the imperial edict into Zhao Mingcheng's hands and then gestured to the eunuch to hand over the gifts one by one.

Then, he stepped forward, put on a more friendly, even somewhat ingratiating smile, and said in a low voice.

"Congratulations to Zhao and Li! The Emperor specifically instructed that these are his tokens of appreciation. Furthermore..."

He took out another exquisite brocade box and a slightly larger gift bag from his sleeve.

"This is a small gift that our family prepared privately to congratulate the author and his wife on their marriage."

This was entrusted to me by Brother Gao. He said he's currently working at the Jiaofangsi (a government-run entertainment institution), and considering his position, it's inconvenient for him to come in person to offer his congratulations, but he wants to convey his heartfelt wishes. Please forgive him, sir.

Zhao Mingcheng quickly accepted it and said sincerely.

"You flatter me, Liang Gongfeng, and you are too kind, Gao Xiong. I am deeply grateful for your kindness. I would like to ask you, Liang Gongfeng, to convey my gratitude to the Emperor upon your return to the palace, and also to express my thanks to Gao Xiong."

"Of course, of course."

Liang Shicheng nodded with a smile, and then cupped his hands in a respectful gesture to Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei.

"Congratulations, Minister Zhao and Master Li! His Majesty has nothing but praise for Zhao! I must return to the palace to report, so I will not trouble you any further. May Minister Zhao and his wife live a long and harmonious life together!"

Having said that, Liang Shicheng left gracefully, surrounded by a group of eunuchs.

The guests who remained kneeling in the courtyard were still not fully recovered from the shock.

Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei slowly stood up, looking at the bright yellow imperial edict in their son's (son-in-law's) hand and at the dazzling imperial gifts.

Looking at their red makeup, which they hadn't yet changed out of but whose weight had been significantly altered by the imperial edict, the two old men's hands trembled slightly in unison.

The slight disappointment and loneliness caused by the lack of guests had long been washed away by the immense glory, excitement, and peace of mind.

Zhao Tingzhi patted Li Gefei's shoulder forcefully, his voice trembling with excitement, yet every word was firm and resounding.

"Uncle Wen! Did you see that? What New Party, what Old Party, what colleague He Yi—"

What does all this matter compared to the Emperor's decree?! The Emperor remembers Mingcheng's merits, approves of this marriage, and even goes so far as to bestow upon Qingzhao extraordinary honors!

This imperial favor, this honor, surpasses the presence of all the high-ranking officials and nobles in Bianjing today! My Zhao family is blessed to have this marriage with your Li family! Our two children are fortunate to have such imperial favor! From this day forward, let's see who dares to look down on them even slightly because of social class!

Li Gefei's eyes were also slightly red. He nodded heavily and held his in-law's hand.

"Brother Zhengfu is right! Thunder and rain, what could be more befit Heaven's grace? The Emperor's kindness is a blessing for Mingcheng, a blessing for Qingzhao, and a blessing for both our families! With the Emperor here, those hypocritical social obligations are unnecessary! They are unnecessary!"

The last trace of worry in Li Gefei's heart caused by partisan divisions vanished at this moment.

The emperor's attitude was already quite clear.

What does it matter if the so-called new and old parties turn their backs on us?

In the courtyard, the guests finally came to their senses one by one.

Congratulations, exclamations, and discussions erupted once again, more enthusiastic and sincere than ever before.

The gazes directed at Zhao Mingcheng and Li Qingzhao were filled with unprecedented envy, awe, and eagerness after a reassessment.

Seeing this, the emcee knew the time had come. He took a deep breath and shouted in an unprecedentedly loud voice, "The auspicious hour has arrived! Bride and groom, perform the ceremony!"

The drums and music resounded, and cheers thundered.

Zhao Mingcheng gently took one end of the red silk ribbon and held the other end in the hand of the bride who had just been bestowed the title of "Yiren".

The wedding officially began in an atmosphere that blended glory, awe, and boundless anticipation for the future.

The wedding went smoothly.

Inside the bridal chamber, the noise and music had been shut out, leaving only their slightly rapid breathing and heartbeats.

Zhao Mingcheng stood by the bed, looking at the bride sitting upright on the edge of the bed with her veil on her head, and his heart was also slightly stirred.

He took a deep breath, picked up the jade ruyi that had been prepared beforehand, and his fingertips trembled slightly, almost imperceptibly.

After calming himself down, he carefully extended the Ruyi scepter to the lower edge of the veil and gently lifted it.

The red veil fell away, revealing Li Qingzhao's carefully made-up face.

Her eyebrows were like distant mountains shrouded in mist, her eyes like autumn waters rippling across the surface, her cheeks were tinged with rouge, and her lips were dotted with vermilion. Her usual scholarly and refined air was now enhanced by a touch of delicate beauty and shyness.

Zhao Mingcheng's heart skipped a beat. He then deliberately cleared his throat, put on a serious expression, leaned closer, lowered his voice, and feigned surprise.

"Huh? How come there's a fairy who stepped out of a painting hiding under this red veil? Could it be that the Old Man of the Moon has tied the wrong red thread, sending a fairy from the Moon Palace to my bridal chamber, Zhao Mingcheng?"

Li Qingzhao was already feeling incredibly ashamed when she heard this, and couldn't help but quickly glance at him.

Seeing the mischievous smile in Zhao Mingcheng's eyes, she knew he was teasing her, and her tension eased a little. She pursed her lips and spat lightly.

"Tsk, my husband is quite the smooth talker. To me, he looks just like one of those lecherous men in storybooks who are good at seducing young ladies."

The last word was spoken very softly, with a hint of shyness.

"Oh dear, I'm innocent!"

Zhao Mingcheng exaggeratedly took a step back, clutching his chest.

"My heart is pure as ice, heaven and earth can bear witness, the sun and moon can attest to it! How could I be considered a lecher? It seems this misunderstanding runs deep; I must use wine to clarify my true intentions!"

As he spoke, Zhao Mingcheng turned around to fetch the nuptial wine that had been prepared on the table.

Two gourd ladles, tied together with red silk, are filled with amber-colored wine.

The two stood facing each other, their arms intertwined, and slowly drank the wine.

Setting down the wine gourd, Zhao Mingcheng looked at Li Qingzhao, his expression suddenly becoming more serious, and said apologetically.

"My wife, I'm sorry you had to go through this today."

Li Qingzhao was taken aback, not understanding why.

"Why do you say that, my husband?"

Zhao Mingcheng sighed, his tone somewhat self-deprecating.

"I originally thought that when we got married, even if we didn't dare say that the house was full of guests and distinguished guests, it should at least be a lively and bustling affair."

"Who knew—because of me, and perhaps because of this pointless lawsuit between the new and old parties, the wedding was rather quiet. Most of the guests were close relatives, colleagues, and dignitaries; there were very few people. It is I—who caused you to suffer this quietness."

Upon hearing this, Li Qingzhao smiled gently, shook her head slightly, and her voice returned to its usual clear and composed tone.

"My lord, you are mistaken. I think today's ceremony was just right."

"Oh?"

"My lord, please think about it," Li Qingzhao said eloquently, her eyes sparkling.

"Those who refuse to come and offer congratulations because of their sectarianism or partisanship are not sincere in their hearts, nor are they truly sincere. If they come, it will only be a superficial show of goodwill, a mere formality. What's the point?"

In contrast, those present today are the Crown Prince, who came out of old friendship; and the General of the Border Garrison, who came out of gratitude for his husband's friendship and character during their time working together in the Hehuang region.

"The fact that Chancellor Zeng sent Zhang Sheren shows the elder's expectations and care for the younger generation; moreover, Liang Gongfeng personally delivered the imperial decree, and His Majesty bestowed upon me the title of Yiren—"

"Doesn't this mean that all the most important people who should have come are here? As for those who didn't come—ha,"

Li Qingzhao's lips curved slightly, a smile that reflected the haughtiness and sarcasm of a talented woman.

"Those who walk different paths cannot make plans together. Whether they come or not, what difference does it make to you and me, or to this wedding? Does the absence of a few insincere congratulations from them mean that we are no longer husband and wife? It is clear that a pure heart sees the world clearly; those who share the same interests are better than a thousand guests."

Li Qingzhao's words were insightful and magnanimous.

She doesn't care about worldly distractions; what she values ​​is genuine affection and the approval of truly important people.

Zhao Mingcheng was delighted to hear this and clapped his hands and laughed.

"A word from you, my wife, is worth more than twenty years of study. It seems that I really need you to scrutinize my future policy essays more closely, lest I write such petty and narrow-minded opinions again, only to make you laugh at me."

Li Qingzhao covered her mouth and chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling.

"My lord, you've finally remembered the strategy? I had to beg and plead three times before I finally got that 'Strategy for Defending Against the Summer.' But—"

She winked mischievously. "That policy essay was indeed well-written. My urging wasn't in vain; didn't I—I even returned the favor by writing a little poem for my husband's 'Snowy Fragrance'?"

Li Qingzhao was referring to the poem "A Spray of Plum Blossoms," which, when brought up now, has become a topic of playful banter between the couple.

"Absolutely!" Zhao Mingcheng nodded repeatedly, his smile deepening.

"Madam's poem was the real finishing touch, turning the mundane into the magical. Speaking of which, it also reminds me of my painting."

Zhao Mingcheng mischievously brought up the chibi-style comic he had given her in return.

Li Qingzhao was indeed amused and laughed out loud, recalling that strange yet adorable painting, her eyes crinkling with delight.

"That painting—I love it! Where did you learn such a unique way of painting, my husband? It's so charming and full of interest."

"In the future—could you paint more, my husband? For example, if I write a new poem, could you paint a picture like this based on its meaning?"

"How could I dare disobey your command?"

Zhao Mingcheng readily agreed, and then immediately put forward his "conditions".

"However, I also have a small request."

"In the future, if there are any mundane matters that require the embellishment of poetry, such as when I come up with some new and interesting thing, I will have to shamelessly ask you to write an inscription. You know my meager talent for doggerel, and I'm afraid it will only make me a laughingstock." Zhao Mingcheng smiled as he said this.

"My lord is too modest. Your essays are so well written, how could you not write poetry? But since you are so sincere in your request, I will reluctantly agree."

Li Qingzhao drew out her words, making her sound even more charming.

The two chatted and joked, their initial shyness and restraint completely gone, and the atmosphere in the bridal chamber was warm and lively.

As night deepened, the red candles burned more than halfway.

Amidst the laughter and conversation, someone suddenly stopped talking, their eyes met, and the atmosphere in the air subtly thickened.

Li Qingzhao seemed to realize something, and her relaxed expression turned blush again. She lowered her eyes somewhat uncomfortably, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her clothes.

Zhao Mingcheng felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He gently got up, blew out a few lamps in the distance, leaving only a pair of dragon and phoenix candles by the bedside, which immediately dimmed the light considerably.

He began to unbutton his outer robe.

Li Qingzhao stole a glance and saw his actions, her face turned even redder, and she quickly lowered her head again, her heart pounding like a drum.

Remove the outer robe, loosen the inner garment —

When Zhao Mingcheng revealed his muscular upper body.

Li Qingzhao, who had just been shyly bowing her head, seemed to see something unbelievable and exclaimed softly, "Ah!"

Then, she subconsciously raised her hands to cover her eyes, but peeked out through her slender fingers, her cheeks as red as rosy clouds.

In the candlelight, Zhao Mingcheng's physique was completely beyond her expectations.

Contrary to the stereotypical image of a frail and thin scholar, Zhao Mingcheng possessed a well-defined physique, smooth lines, and could even be described as robust.

He had broad shoulders, a strong chest, and well-defined abdominal muscles.

His physique, honed through years of training, exuded a powerful aura under the candlelight.

This is completely different from the image of "husband" that Li Qingzhao imagined.

Zhao Mingcheng was untying his belt when he heard the sound and looked up. Seeing her like this, he couldn't help but find it both funny and puzzling.

"What's wrong? Is there writing on my body?"

He looked down at himself and didn't see anything wrong with it.

Li Qingzhao peeked at him through her fingers, her voice as soft as a whisper, filled with disbelief and shyness.

"You, how could you—I thought my husband looked so refined and cultured, like a scholar, but I never expected—he's actually like this—"

Li Qingzhao hesitated for a long time, too embarrassed to continue.

Zhao Mingcheng suddenly realized, and couldn't help but laugh. He deliberately stretched his arms behind him and tensed his chest muscles.

"Didn't expect your husband to have such a muscular physique? Did I frighten you, my wife?"

Li Qingzhao covered her face and shook her head haphazardly, but her fingers parted slightly, and she peeked out with bright eyes.

Zhao Mingcheng walked to the bedside and sat down, looking at her adorable appearance, and explained.

"Actually, when I was at the Imperial Academy and Prince Duan's residence, I often played Cuju (ancient Chinese football), which is extremely physically demanding and is especially good for physical training."

Later, I went to the Hehuang region. The borderlands were bitterly cold, and the situation was complex, so I dared not slack off. Every morning, getting up early and practicing horseback riding, archery, and physical fitness were essential. Otherwise, how could I command the border troops and pacify the various tribes? This physique was forged during that time. How come—”

He leaned closer and asked in a low voice with a smile.

"Does Madam like it or not? If she doesn't like it, then I'll wear it."

Li Qingzhao's ears burned from his question. She gave him a coquettish glare, but it had no power; instead, it sounded more like she was being affectionate.

She lowered her hand, her face still flushed, but she bravely looked up at him and muttered softly.

"No—you're not allowed to wear it! I—I didn't say I didn't like it—"

After saying this, Li Qingzhao seemed to feel that her words were too blunt, and turned her face away in embarrassment.

But the slight upturn of his lips and the undisguised admiration and curiosity in his eyes betrayed his true feelings.

Zhao Mingcheng was delighted with her shy yet lively appearance. Without saying anything more, he gently reached out and pulled her into his arms.

Li Qingzhao's body stiffened slightly, then softened, burying her burning cheeks in his chest, listening to his strong and slightly rapid heartbeat.

The red silk curtains slowly fell, concealing the spring scenery in the room.

Clothes lay on the ground, the candlelight flickered red.

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