When the emperor was still a prince, he had to send his son away to the Huo family due to a power struggle. Later, after securing the throne, he took Huo Yixiao back and raised him as the prince's companion. Except for the title of prince, Huo Yixiao's upbringing and expenses mirrored those of the prince, fueling speculation among officials about his true lineage.
Mrs. Gui inquired about Huo Yixiao's biological mother, but Wen Yan remained uncertain. "I only know her identity is unusual, which led to his separation," Wen Yan explained. "After his return, he didn't recognize her for a long time, but he will eventually."
Wen Yan revealed a jade ring given to her by the palace before leaving the capital, sparking Mrs. Gui's interest. The ring symbolized a potential engagement between Wen Yan and Huo Yixiao. Mrs. Gui acknowledged that Mrs. Huo's intentions were clear: she wanted Huo Yixiao to marry Wen Yan.
Wen Yan confided in Sui Niang and Aunt Huang about the jade ring's origin, confirming it came from Mrs. Huo through the palace. Wen Yan knew Huo Yixiao's background and his vulnerable spot – his biological mother's identity. She recalled his past struggles and hardships.
Determined to alter Huo Yixiao's fate, Wen Yan sought to marry him earlier. However, her plans were disrupted by Ji Zhu's arrival. Mrs. Gui favored Uncle Shunping's residence but hadn't forgotten Wen Yan's refusal. Wen Hui, curious about Wen Yan's decision, questioned her.
Wen Yan clarified her stance, mentioning her encounter with the prince and her disinterest in Ji Zhu. Wen Hui changed the subject, asking about Mrs. Gui's thoughts. Wen Yan remained uncertain.
The conversation shifted when Qing Zhi announced an invitation from Shunping's residence for the three sisters to gather. Wen Yan noted the unusual timing, considering her mourning period. Mrs. Gui's calculations seemed to be unfolding.
Wen Hui's excitement grew, sensing drama brewing. "Seriously?" she asked Qing Zhi, who confirmed the invitation.
Wen Yan frowned, pondering the implications. "Three girls?" she asked.
Qing Zhi replied, "We girls have been invited, Third Girl, you, and Fourth Girl."
Wen Yan's thoughts turned to Huo Yixiao, who would arrive in two years. She knew Mrs. Gui's intentions and the potential consequences.
Mrs. Gui's maid, Xi, delivered a handwritten letter to Uncle Shunping's residence the next day. Its contents remained unknown to Wen Yan and Wen Hui.
Wen Hui's patience wore thin, and she confronted Wen Yan. "Are you really not interested in Ji Zhu?"
Wen Yan countered, "You have to like it just because it's good?"
Wen Hui rephrased her question, "Ji Zhu is excellent, do you really look down on him?"
Wen Yan hinted at her encounter with the prince, "I've met someone else."
Wen Hui's curiosity deepened, but she dared not press further.
The sisters' conversation exposed their distant relationship, a result of past circumstances.
Qing Zhi's interruption brought a welcome change in subject.
As the story unfolds, alliances will shift, and destinies will entwine.