USWHC -Chapter 433 My Wife (Part 3)

The Third Prince’s birthday had the entire capital bustling with excitement. Yet this year’s celebration was slightly different from previous ones. The Third Prince did not lavishly renovate the prince’s residence; instead, he opened porridge stalls at various street corners. Yes—distributing porridge for the people. What a charitable act!

“Brother Ji, do you think Father would be pleased if he saw me doing this?” the Third Prince asked respectfully.

Indeed, this was also Ji Yi’s suggestion. Ji Yi replied confidently, “Of course. Which emperor does not love his people as his own? If the Emperor sees the Third Prince acting like this, he will surely reward Your Highness!”

“Right, right! I think so too!” the Third Prince said with a smile.

At that moment, from afar, a carriage pulled up at the west gate. Its luxurious appearance immediately revealed who it was—the Princess of Ping’an had arrived!

Seeing this, the Third Prince hurriedly asked, “Brother Ji, should I go greet her?”

Ji Yi immediately refused. “No!” he thought. If he went and saw how beautiful his wife was, what if the Third Prince decided to marry her himself?

Of course, Ji Yi would never say it that plainly. Instead, he spoke very earnestly:

“Your Highness, the Third Prince, has a special status. If you personally go to greet a woman, what might people think? The other princes are all perceptive and clever; they may not have expected it. Seeing you act this way, they will surely notice! And although Consort Li is a favored concubine, she is not the mother of a prince. Even if she allies with her, it must not be done openly. Subtle influence must be wielded—quietly, without leaving a trace!”

The Third Prince’s eyes widened. This man was truly wise! He nodded vigorously. “Yes, then let the women handle it! I just worry that my new bride won’t understand these things!”

“No need to worry, Your Highness. I have heard that the Third Princess Consort is the legitimate granddaughter of the Count’s household. She should be accustomed to handling such matters. And even if she is not, I can assist discreetly, ensuring nothing interferes with Your Highness’s plans,” Ji Yi said calmly, though inside he was practically jumping with excitement. He was about to see his wife! How could he not be thrilled?

Hearing this, the Third Prince nodded again in agreement. “Then I leave it to you, Brother Ji!”

Ji Yi’s grin nearly split his face. He had to constantly tell himself: Control yourself. Must stay composed!

“Princess Hésuò has arrived!” a voice called. From afar came an even more luxurious carriage. The carriage was entirely golden, with golden-threaded embroidery of birds covering the curtains. The frame was constructed from some unknown wood, completely wrapped in gold leaf. The golden surface was not plain; intricate patterns were carved into it.

Such extravagance—surely only the imperial family of Daliang could afford it!

The Third Prince smiled arrogantly. “My fourth sister has arrived!” Indeed, it was the Fourth Princess.

He added, “Today, you are in for a treat. The three most beautiful women of Daliang will all appear!”

“Really?” Ji Yi was slightly taken aback.

“Follow me! I’ll show you what true beauty is!” the Third Prince said, taking Ji Yi by the hand and leading him forward.

True beauty? Ji Yi merely smiled faintly. It didn’t matter to him—he already had the most beautiful woman in his heart.

The carriage slowly stopped. A red carpet had been laid beside it, and no one else was allowed to step onto it. Only the Third Prince could stand at a distance to greet the princess.

Ji Yi, of course, had to kneel. He was frustrated, but thinking of finally seeing Zhu Jie, he accepted it without complaint.

A hand extended from the carriage—without a single ornament, revealing a fair arm as smooth and pale as white jade. Truly, it could be called a jade arm.

Several maids quickly moved forward. Three held the arm, while two lifted the curtain aside. When everything paused, the princess gracefully emerged.

In that moment, the surrounding air seemed to freeze. She was indeed a beauty, a gentle woman like flowing water. The wind blew across her face and stirred her skirts, as if even a slight breeze might topple her. Without a doubt, she was a maiden so captivating that anyone who saw her would feel pity and admiration at once.