By night, the Mo Residence was at its loudest.
The men drank in the front hall, the women gathered in the inner courtyards, and the newlyweds were escorted toward the bridal chamber amid teasing and laughter.
Mo Lixia followed with the women. The bridal room was bright with red candles; auspicious symbols were pasted on doors and windows. The air smelled faintly of incense and wine.
As tradition demanded, the bride sat on the bed, still veiled. Zhanchen, usually so steady, looked a little tense under all the eyes on him.
Someone urged, "Lift the veil!"
Cheers rose. Zhanchen lifted the red veil with the ceremonial rod.
Jiang Ruoyan's face appeared under the candlelight—delicate, composed, her eyes slightly lowered. She offered him a shy glance that made the room erupt in delighted laughter.
Mo Lixia watched quietly. She felt happy for her brother—truly happy.
After the formalities, the women began to file out. Mo Lixia slipped away as well, relieved to escape the heat and noise.
But before she could reach the corridor, someone called her name.
She turned—and froze.
A familiar masked figure stood at the edge of the lamplight, the hem of his robe dusted with snow.
Prince Kang.
The night suddenly felt colder.
His gaze landed on her, calm and steady, as if he'd been waiting for this moment.
Mo Lixia's heart tightened. She lowered her eyes and stepped forward with proper courtesy, careful and restrained, as if the prince were nothing more than an honored guest.
Prince Kang's voice was low. "Miss Mo."
That simple greeting sounded far too intimate in the quiet.
Mo Lixia kept her expression composed. "Your Highness."