Chapter 18: A Jealous Prince
Cui Xingzhou had spent his days training with soldiers at the military camp, his appetite worlds apart from the delicate tastes of idle princes and noble ladies in the capital. Aside from the crab roe buns, Lian Silan had also prepared a small bowl of bird’s nest soup and a plate of honey-glazed meat jerky. The snacks were exquisite, their flavors refined and pleasing — but after a few bites, they left his stomach neither full nor satisfied. Nothing compared to Li Mama’s large steamed radish buns. Still, Cui Xingzhou remained polite. He left one bun untouched as a sign that he was full, offering his cousin a gentle compliment on her improved culinary skills. His praise made Lian Silan’s cheeks brighten. She promised shyly that she would prepare more delicate foods for him in the future. She didn’t bring up her father’s recommendation letters again. Instead, she spoke softly about the Empress Dowager’s daily habits. When she saw his expression gradually soften, she knew it was time...
