Chapter 628: Osmanthus Candy
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
The empress was fully engrossed in the entire process. The emperor, indeed a seasoned campaigner, had just completed a successful mission, despite having recently engaged in battle.
To the Empress’s surprise, the Emperor did not inquire about anything related to their recent activities, nor did he broach the subject of the Public House’s actions.
Instead, the emperor reminisced about the past, harking back to the time when she first entered the crown prince’s residence. Their conversation delved into the emotional aspects of their relationship, bringing tears to the empress’s eyes.
“I’ve pondered on this. If I hadn’t become the emperor, would we be so distant?” mused the Emperor.
Attempting to steer the conversation back, the Empress said, “Aren’t we fine now? How can we be strangers?”
The Emperor sighed. “Yu’er, there are many things you might not know. I hesitate to tell you, fearing it might bring you sorrow.”
“You’re probably aware of the differences in opinions between the Public House and me on political matters.”
“The Public House holds considerable influence, and I’m in the prime of my life. Most times, my decisions are justified.”
“While I understand the Public House is acting in my best interest, as the ruler of the country, I harbor grievances. I thought that if I sought you out, you would perceive some of the reasons, adding to your burdens.”
“Thus, over the past year, I’ve visited you only a few times.”
“Now, I regret it. Husbands and wives should share both joy and sorrow. Avoiding you has left me uneasy, and I’m certain you must be dissatisfied with me.”
Externally, the Empress reassured, “Your Majesty, I won’t be.”
Internally, she felt a sense of revulsion.
It would have been preferable if the emperor hadn’t acknowledged his flaws. Over the past year, not only she but even the little crown prince rarely saw him.
This elaborate explanation, this facade of deep affection, made her nauseous, and she even contemplated regurgitating the next day’s meal. Nevertheless, she had no choice but to endure it.
After they both freshened up, they summoned someone to bring the crown prince to them.
The crown prince, a precocious two-year-old who had already begun reading, displayed intelligence beyond his years. The emperor, deliberately expressing goodwill, ensured that the family of three enjoyed a pleasant time together, concluding with a shared dinner.
Innocently, the crown prince inquired, “Father, were you very busy before?”
He had missed spending time with his father, who seemed occupied with countless responsibilities.
Expressing his fondness for playing with his father, the crown prince earnestly hoped for daily companionship.
The Emperor assured him, “No matter how busy Father is in the future, he will make time to be with my little crown prince!”
The crown prince’s excitement was palpable. “That’s great! Thank you, Father!”
Unaware at his tender age that the father he adored harbored nefarious intentions.
The emperor, adept at performance, skillfully avoided mentioning seeking assistance from the empress. For several consecutive days, he devoted his afternoons to the empress, fostering a better relationship with the little crown prince.
On the fifth day, sensing the opportune moment, the emperor, while carrying the little crown prince, offered him osmanthus candy.
Throughout this period, the emperor made it a daily routine to gift the crown prince osmanthus candy.
However, the crown prince declined to eat it every time.
Perplexed, the emperor inquired, “Is it because you don’t like candy?”
He couldn’t fathom any child disliking candy, especially when he had witnessed the crown prince indulging in it with evident satisfaction.
The crown prince clarified, “Father, I do like candy! But Mother doesn’t permit me to have too much.”
“Furthermore, Mother always advises me that in the harem, no matter who offers me food, I mustn’t consume it casually. I have to bring it back for Mother to inspect before I can eat it.”
The emperor was incensed upon hearing this.. The little crown prince wasn’t even trusting enough to enjoy the candy he had given him?