What? After a long moment of realization, Gu Qingning finally lifted her head to look at the man across from her, who wore a light smile on his face.
Didn’t you say you wanted to repay the prince? Have you thought about how to repay him?
The Ninth Prince of the current dynasty held a noble status, and a girl like her simply could not aspire to such heights. As a distinguished prince, he was accustomed to luxury and comfort, having grown up in a world of wealth. She truly could not think of anything that could repay him for saving her life.
The clear bite marks on her lips made Gu Qingning appear pitiful, evoking a sense of compassion in those who looked upon her.
The prince still needs a consort; why not offer yourself? Pei Zhiqing blurted out.
A few days ago, he had inadvertently overheard his second brother requesting their father to grant a marriage between him and Gu Qingning. However, Duke Gu Changqing had outright refused the proposal, citing that Gu Qingning had just reached the age of maturity and was still too young.
Now, looking at Gu Qingning before him, he finally understood why his second brother was so eager to seek their father’s approval for the marriage.
Aside from Gu Qingning’s bright eyes and stunning beauty, there was also the military power held by Gu Changqing.
As soon as the words left his mouth, Gu Qingning stumbled slightly, nearly falling onto the carpet.
What?
She couldn’t have heard that correctly.
Was this Ninth Prince out of his mind?
She had never heard of anyone being so direct in asking for repayment of kindness; it was utterly unheard of.
What? You’re unwilling? Pei Zhiqing bent down closer to Gu Qingning, gazing into her bright and clear eyes.
With the man so near, Gu Qingning's heart raced, and she could see his reflection in her eyes. She could even clearly make out the small beauty mark above his left eyebrow.
Inside the closed carriage, an eerie atmosphere suddenly enveloped them.
The legitimate daughter of the Duke of Loyalty and Distance marrying this short-lived Ninth Prince might just become a tale worth telling. Pei Zhirui stared at Gu Qingning, whose youthful face was filled with confusion.
He suddenly wanted to see how she would respond next.
Your Highness, the Ninth Prince is of noble birth; how many women in the capital wish to marry him? Why do you single me out after only one meeting? Gu Qingning asked, her face pale as she mustered her courage.
All she wanted was to protect her family well; she had no desire to entangle herself with Pei Zhirui’s brothers, especially not with the man before her.
To outsiders, the Ninth Prince Pei Zhiqing stood tall and handsome, resembling an elegant orchid—he was the dream lover of many women in the capital.
Having experienced the truth, Gu Qingning knew that Pei Zhirui was not as elegant and refined as others perceived him to be. He held great power, enjoyed the favor of Emperor Jing, and was a sharp blade in the emperor's hand.
And you?
I am to be married and must obey my father.
Under Pei Zhiqing's piercing gaze, Gu Qingning spoke without thinking. Previously, she had only met Pei Zhiqing a few times in the palace, merely exchanging nods as they passed by each other. She knew very little about him until she learned from Pei Zhirui that he was a formidable opponent in the struggle for succession.
"Gu Qingning?"
"Yes."
A pleasant voice reached Gu Qingning's ears again, and she responded instinctively.
Pei Zhiqing straightened his back, adjusted his cloak, and a faint smile graced his lips as he leaned silently against the carriage.
Gu Qingning was momentarily taken aback; the pain in her feet seemed to lessen.
Could this guy be deliberately trying to divert her attention?
With a hint of confusion, Gu Qingning glanced towards the man in the corner opposite her.
Comment 0 Comment Count