Yan Lin didn't anticipate the commotion at Uncle Qingyuan's mansion to be so intense. Due to a conversation with Uncle Qingyuan, he couldn't leave immediately and only emerged late at night. Originally headed to Layer Tower, upon reaching the intersection of Dejie, they discovered the area was cordoned off by officers and soldiers. Inquiring about the situation, they were told that Layer Tower was under attack by assassins targeting court-appointed officials. This revelation left them on edge.
Desiring to enter, Yan Lin hesitated due to Xie Wei's presence inside, wary of making a misstep.
Luckily, Jiang Xuening was brought back when someone went to relay the message.
"Ning Ning!" Anxious upon her return, Yan Lin hurriedly took her hand, scrutinizing her for any injuries, "Did you get hurt? Did you fall somewhere?"
Jiang Xuening, still recovering from the sudden and harrowing experience, was a bit unsteady despite walking. She only regained her focus upon Yan Lin calling her repeatedly.
Reassuringly, she replied, "I'm fine, no harm done."
Though physically unscathed, her complexion was ashen, and her expression remained somewhat distant. It was evident that the recent events had taken a toll on her.
Yan Lin's concern deepened; he held her hand, sensing its coldness. A twinge of unease gripped his heart. Lowering his voice to comfort her, he said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here now. It's my fault; I shouldn't have let those people at Bo's house disrespect you. They shouldn't have told you to wait for me on the upper floor, exposing you to such danger."
Jiang Xuening wasn't afraid of the assassins; her fear stemmed from the presence of Emperor Teacher Xie Wei, who carried an aura of sanctity that overshadowed any concerns about the attackers. Reflecting on their recent clandestine conversation, she was startled to realize that Xie Wei was aware of her relationship with Yan Lin.
Despite the subordinate's announcement focusing solely on Yan Lin's arrival, Xie Wei directed his attention to her, prompting Jian Shu to escort her out. This raised questions for Jiang Xuening, as her past outings with Yan Lin were carefully concealed, and the revelation of her identity was unexpected. How did Xie Wei come to know about this intimate detail?
Various possibilities crossed her mind, considering sources like Yongyi Hou's mansion or her father, Jiang Boyou. However, for Xie Wei, this seemed to be common knowledge. This revelation shed light on Xie Wei's respectful yet distant demeanor in their past life, an attitude stemming from her perceived betrayal of Yan Lin, indirect harm to the Palace of Yongyi Hou, and eventual alliance with Zhou Yinzhi.
As Yan Lin expressed concern and comfort, Jiang Xuening felt the warmth in his touch, sensing the passion in his heart. When she met his genuine, caring gaze, a reluctance to face him directly washed over her, overwhelmed by guilt for her past actions.
In response to Yan Lin's suggestion to return home and rest after the day's ordeal, he expressed a desire to skip the lantern festival for now, promising to bring her to the next one when it reopened. As he spoke, he attempted to guide her into the awaiting carriage.
Jiang Xuening's heart ached, but she resisted the urge to cry. Instead, she pulled Yan Lin's hand and insisted, "No, I want to go."
Despite her inner turmoil, she managed a smile, attempting to reassure him that she was okay. Yan Lin observed her quietly, his eyes filled with concern.
After a moment of silence, he chuckled and remarked, "But you said you were going!"
Without further explanation, Yan Lin took a step forward, encircling her waist and effortlessly lifting her onto the horse. Jiang Xuening was momentarily stunned, unable to react in time. She exclaimed softly, "Yan Lin!"
Unfazed, Yan Lin laughed heartily, securing her on the horse and joining her in the saddle. He held the reins with one hand, the other wrapped around her, and urged the horse forward with a playful grin. The horse galloped, leaving behind the streets, buildings, and pedestrians.
Jiang Xuening felt the chill of the autumn wind against her face, the sound of hooves beneath her, and Yan Lin's laughter echoing in her ears. Her heart raced, more intense than during the encounter with the assassin and Xie Wei.
Unable to contain herself, she exclaimed, "You are crazy!"
Yan Lin continued to laugh, seemingly unaffected. "I might be."
Jiang Xuening, irritated, accused him of being sick. Yan Lin, undeterred, urged the horse to run even faster, teasing, "Aren't you afraid now?"
She contemplated scolding him but found herself at a loss for words. Amid the laughter and the rush of wind, she forgot the frightening events at the tower.
When they finally dismounted, Jiang Xuening's legs felt weak. Yan Lin supported her, and despite her anger, she couldn't help but smile. However, as he chuckled again, she clenched her fists and playfully hit him, saying, "You can't stop laughing, can you? Try again!"
Despite her attempt to display anger, she was just a girl, and the act of hitting Yan Lin didn't hurt at all.
Now, Yan Lin brought her to the lantern festival, and all the bitterness and worries seemed to be blown away by the lively atmosphere. She felt carefree and light-hearted.
Amid the colorful lanterns, laughter, and joyous atmosphere, Yan Lin's infectious enthusiasm warmed her heart. His childlike excitement and genuine interest in everything around them made her forget the troubles and dangers of the earlier encounter.
As they strolled through the lantern-lit streets, Yan Lin continued to suggest various activities and treats, making Jiang Xuening smile and nod in agreement. The lantern riddles, sugar figures, and beautiful head ornaments all added to the festive atmosphere.
The lantern festival was a stark contrast to the confined and formal life in the palace, and Jiang Xuening relished every moment of this unexpected adventure. She was no longer the lady of the mansion but a carefree girl enjoying the festivities with a companion who knew how to make her laugh.
As they approached a lively lantern riddles area, Yan Lin's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Ning Ning, let's try the lantern riddles! I'm sure we'll solve them all!"
Jiang Xuening couldn't help but join in his enthusiasm. Together, they tackled lantern riddles, exchanging laughter and enjoying each other's company. In that moment, the lantern festival became a magical space where worries faded away, and the joy of simple pleasures illuminated their spirits.
Yan Lin's warm and genuine companionship became a source of comfort for Jiang Xuening, reminding her of the carefree days of their childhood. The lantern festival turned into a cherished memory, a respite from the complexities of life, and a celebration of friendship and joy.
He looked at her, his eyes gentle and warm, and he couldn't help but reach out to wipe a trace of rice grains on her cheek. "You've got rice on your face, silly girl."
Jiang Xuening, who had been indulging in the joy of the lantern festival, suddenly felt a sense of warmth. She smiled and said, "You always take care of me like this."
Yan Lin chuckled and said, "Well, someone has to look out for you. Otherwise, who knows what kind of trouble you might get into?"
They sat there, surrounded by the golden carpet of fallen ginkgo leaves, under the quiet evening sky. The atmosphere was serene, and the distant sound of the evening bell added to the tranquility of the moment.
Jiang Xuening looked around and said, "Yan Lin, thank you. Today was really fun. I almost forgot about all the troubles."
Yan Lin smiled, "No need to thank me. We're friends, right? Friends should make each other happy."
She nodded, appreciating the simplicity and sincerity in his words. It was true; Yan Lin had a way of making her forget about the complexities of her life. In this serene moment, surrounded by the beauty of the lantern festival and the tranquility of the temple, she felt a genuine sense of happiness.
As they sat there, enjoying the peaceful ambiance, Jiang Xuening couldn't help but think about the unpredictable twists and turns of life. Just a few hours ago, she was faced with an assassin and the enigmatic Xie Wei. Now, here she was, in the company of a friend, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the lantern festival.
Life had its ups and downs, but in this moment, the simplicity of friendship and the joy of shared laughter seemed to be the brightest lantern illuminating her path.
Jiang Xuening listened quietly, her eyes reflecting the starry night sky. She didn't say anything for a while, as if pondering his words. After a moment, she finally responded, her voice soft, "Yan Lin, you're really silly."
Yan Lin chuckled, "Maybe I am, but that's just how I feel. I can't help it."
She looked at him, her eyes filled with an indescribable emotion. "I never thought someone would like me for being real. People always want me to be someone I'm not. It's tiring, you know?"
Yan Lin nodded, "I can understand that. The world can be a harsh place, always wanting people to conform to its expectations. But I like you just the way you are, Ning Ning. No need to change for anyone."
Her heart felt a warmth she hadn't experienced in a long time. Yan Lin's simple acceptance of her true self touched her deeply. In that moment, she realized the preciousness of genuine companionship and acceptance.
As they continued to lie on the steps, watching the stars overhead, Jiang Xuening couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for having someone like Yan Lin in her life. In the midst of political intrigue and personal struggles, his friendship was like a beacon of light guiding her through the darkness.
The lantern festival continued to glow with vibrant colors around them, but in that quiet moment, the connection between Yan Lin and Jiang Xuening was the brightest lantern of all.
Jiang Xuening was still in a daze, trying to process what had just happened. The unexpected kiss left her momentarily speechless. The abrupt proposal caught her off guard, and she blinked, as if making sure she heard correctly.
Yan Lin turned around, facing her again, but his eyes were filled with embarrassment and unease. He scratched his head, a sheepish smile on his face, and he stammered, "I-I mean, if you don't want to, it's fine. I shouldn't have done that, really, it was foolish of me…"
His words trailed off as he anxiously awaited her response.
Jiang Xuening, still absorbing the whirlwind of emotions, looked at Yan Lin. In that vulnerable moment, she saw a side of him she hadn't noticed before. He wasn't just the cheerful and carefree companion; he was also someone with his own insecurities.
She wiped away the lingering tears on her cheeks, her voice soft but clear, "Yan Lin, you are not foolish. And about the proposal…"
She hesitated, unsure of how to express herself. The emotions inside her were complex, a mix of confusion, surprise, and a hint of something she couldn't quite define.
Yan Lin looked at her, his eyes searching for any signs of her feelings. He was prepared for rejection but hoped for acceptance.
Jiang Xuening took a deep breath and spoke slowly, "After the crowning ceremony, let's talk about it. It's a big decision, and I need time to think. But for now, let's enjoy the lantern festival."
Yan Lin's face lit up with relief and joy. He managed a heartfelt smile and nodded, "Yes, let's enjoy the lantern festival."
They sat together on the steps, sharing a moment of quiet companionship under the ginkgo tree. The lanterns around them glowed with vibrant colors, casting a warm and gentle light on the path ahead.
As the night unfolded, Jiang Xuening found herself reflecting on the twists and turns of her life, the unexpected connections formed, and the unpredictable nature of destiny. The lantern festival, with its magical ambiance, seemed to encapsulate the essence of those fleeting moments that could change the course of one's life.
In the midst of lanterns and whispers of the night, Jiang Xuening and Yan Lin continued to share the lantern festival, embracing the uncertainty of their futures with open hearts.