The Prince Consort's Secret (GL) - Chapter 5

“You all can wait outside,” I told the maids. “I need some quiet time.”

They exchanged confused glances. Qiuwen smiled. “Princess, you really have amnesia. Even this makes you shy.” The others giggled and retreated. Shy? That maid is annoying. Tomorrow, she’ll be shelling my melon seeds.

Once the door closed, I relaxed. I enjoyed a leisurely bath and went to bed. After a long day, sleep was welcome.

I woke refreshed. Early to bed, early to rise—it felt good. After washing and eating, I toured the estate with the maids until my feet ached, then returned to the study.

A gentle male voice interrupted my reading: “When did my sister become so studious?”

The Crown Prince. A handsome young man entered, smiling. He wore white robes, a jade belt, and a golden crown. He looked composed. But… it was February, not hot at all, yet he was fanning himself with a folding fan. So much for coolness.

I rose and bowed. “Greetings, Your Highness.” He tapped my head. “So formal today? Trying to get me to plead with Father? No use. Just marry him.”

That familiar feeling returned, intensified by the tap on my head. This sense of déjà vu was overwhelming. Perhaps I *did* have a connection to this world… But I couldn’t remember. My memories felt blocked.

I rubbed my head, smiling. “Brother, you’re mistaken. Why would I plead? I’ll marry.”

He looked at me suspiciously. “Are you starved silly?”

I was speechless. Shouldn’t he be relieved?

He laughed. “That’s good. You learned your lesson. No need to faint from hunger.” He sat down.

He asked Ying’er for tea. “Yes, I’ll marry eventually. Might as well do it now.”

“That’s the wrong attitude. ‘Might as well’? I guarantee you won’t regret marrying him. He’s wonderful. If he weren’t my sister’s husband, I’d try to steal him.”

I was shocked. Did the Crown Prince have… preferences? He smirked. “After seeing his appearance and character, I understand men with… such preferences.” He fanned himself, looking even more elegant.

I glared at his fan. “No need to exaggerate.”

He took a sip of tea. “No, I’m serious.”

“Oh,” I replied noncommittally.

We chatted and practiced calligraphy. As noon approached, he left. His attendant followed. The Prince seemed strangely amused. Near the gate, Ying’er whispered, “A Tongzhi Lang is a servant of the Crown Prince.”

I understood. Many people awaited outside, but one stood out—a breathtaking figure. Their beauty captivated at first glance.

Tall and elegant in the sunlight, he wore a head wrap, a jade pendant, and a scarlet official robe that accentuated his fair skin. His eyes were captivating, even his calm demeanor couldn’t hide his allure.

Such beauty was rare… But more importantly, I suspected he was a woman. No man could possess such delicate features!