Princess Shu still didn't know what was happening. She only felt everyone's gaze turn toward her, their expressions complicated.
She smiled as she walked toward Shen Ningning. "Ningning, the carriage ran into a bit of trouble on the way, so I'm late."
With that, she turned to greet Princess Consort Qi. Princess Shu's smile was gentle under the sun, a stark contrast to the forced calm on Princess Consort Qi's face. Shen Ningning hid a private smile.
Princess Shu explained to Princess Consort Qi, "Since today is Your Highness's birthday, I prepared a gift as well."
A servant behind her presented a brocade box. When it was opened, everyone saw what was inside: a twin lotus crafted from gold and silver thread, a symbol of a deep and harmonious bond.
The meaning behind her blessing was unmistakable: she was wishing for Princess Consort Qi and the Emperor to share a bond as harmonious as the twin lotus.
