As Li Mei made her way up the steps to the Zhao mansion, she found herself almost grateful to be back in the safety of her home. The Princess's tea party had been a test of endurance and patience. The snide remarks, the forced smiles—she was exhausted and ready to retreat to her room.
Just as she was about to enter the mansion, she heard a familiar, playful voice.
"Well, if it isn't the lady of the hour," Wei Ming said, leaning casually against one of the gate pillars.
Li Mei stopped in her tracks, her eyes widening in surprise. "Wei Ming! What are you doing here?"
He pushed himself off the pillar with a grin. "Waiting for you, actually. I've been trying to catch a glimpse of the market's mysterious foodie. Imagine my surprise when I saw you heading home."
Li Mei laughed, the tension from the day melting away at the sound of his voice. "You must have a knack for coincidences. I didn't expect to see you again so soon."
He chuckled, pushing himself off the pillar and walking towards her. "At least the coincidences always lead me to a beauty"
Li Mei blushed, as he got closer . "You are quite the sweet talker aren't you" she said in a sweet voice.
As they walked along the garden path, Li Mei found herself opening up about the tea party. She spoke of the Princess's subtle insults and the awkward atmosphere, but with a lighthearted touch that made the retelling almost humorous. Wei Ming listened attentively, a playful grin never leaving his face.
"It sounds like you handled it with grace," he said, his voice warm. "Not many could have maintained their composure with such subtle hostility."
Li Mei shrugged, her expression a mixture of amusement and weariness. "I suppose it's all part of navigating these social circles. Sometimes it feels like I'm walking a tightrope."
Wei Ming laughed, a genuine and hearty sound that seemed to lift the mood. "And yet, here you are, managing to turn even a difficult situation into a story worth hearing."
Li Mei smiled, feeling her tension ease as they continued walking. "It's easier to laugh about it now. But I must say, I was surprised to see you at the party."
Wei Ming's gaze grew thoughtful. "I was there on official business, though I confess, I was also curious to see how you'd fare. You seemed to handle yourself well despite the Princess's… peculiar attitude."
Li Mei raised an eyebrow. "Peculiar is one way to put it. She certainly had her moments."
"Indeed," Wei Ming agreed with a chuckle. "I've heard she can be quite difficult, though I didn't expect her to direct her ire at you."
Li Mei sighed, shaking her head. "It seems I've become the target of her frustrations. But enough about that. I'd much rather focus on our conversation."
Wei Ming's smile widened as he looked at her. "I'm glad to hear that. I've enjoyed talking with you, Li Mei. It's refreshing to converse with someone who doesn't fit the usual mold of high society."
Li Mei's heart fluttered at his compliment. "I'm glad you think so. I've enjoyed our conversation too. It's rare to find someone who understands the world outside the expectations."
They strolled down the garden path, the moon casting a gentle light over them. The conversation flowed easily, filled with witty exchanges and laughter. Li Mei found herself opening up about the absurdities of high society, and Wei Ming shared his own amusing anecdotes about the trials of being a top scholar.
"So, tell me," Wei Ming said with a teasing glint in his eye, "did you have to fend off any particularly nasty remarks from the Princess, or did you keep all the barbs to yourself?"
Li Mei grinned. "Oh, there were barbs, alright. I think one of them was aimed at my attire. Apparently, a 'commoner's veil' isn't exactly in vogue with the nobility."
Wei Ming laughed heartily. "Ah, yes, I can imagine. Your veil must have been quite the scandal. I, for one, thought you looked rather striking. But then, I have a soft spot for unconventional styles."
Li Mei's cheeks warmed at the compliment. "You're too kind. But honestly, the best part of today was escaping the party to find a friend in the garden."
Wei Ming raised an eyebrow, his expression intrigued. "A friend, you say? And here I thought I was just an accidental encounter."
Li Mei smirked. "Well, accidental or not, it's been a pleasant surprise. I'd love to keep the conversation going if you're up for it."
Wei Ming's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "Absolutely. How about we continue this conversation over dinner sometime? I've been meaning to try a new restaurant that just opened. I hear they have quite the impressive menu."
Li Mei's heart fluttered at the invitation. "I'd love that. I've always been interested in trying new places, especially ones with a reputation for good food."
As they approached the mansion's entrance, Li Mei couldn't help but feel a bit wistful. "It's a shame we have to part ways so soon. I've really enjoyed our time together."
Wei Ming's smile softened, and he took a step closer. "The pleasure has been mine. How about we set a date for that dinner? I promise, I won't make you fend off any royal barbs."
Li Mei blushed, her heart racing at the thought. "That sounds wonderful. Let's plan for it. I look forward to it."
With a final, lingering glance, Wei Ming turned to leave, his steps light and his demeanor warm. Li Mei watched him go, a flutter of excitement in her chest. The evening had taken an unexpected turn, and as she finally entered the mansion, she couldn't help but replay their conversation in her mind.
Inside, she found herself grinning like a giddy schoolgirl. The prospect of seeing Wei Ming again was a thrilling thought, and she eagerly anticipated their next meeting. As she made her way to her room, she was filled with a sense of joy and possibility that had been missing for far too long.
In her room, she couldn't wait to tell Yulan about her encounter. The butterflies in her stomach were still dancing, and she was ready to share the excitement of her newfound connection. The night had ended on a high note, and Li Mei was left with a heart full of hope and a smile that wouldn't fade anytime soon.