Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Shao Yunduan bowed gracefully, his smile radiant. “These strawberries, a blend of festivity and exquisite taste, are at their prime season. I thought you might appreciate a sample of their freshness.”

The Crown Prince chuckled warmly. “Thank you, Officer Shao.”

He savored two strawberries and nodded in approval. “Absolutely delicious.”

Shao Yunduan offered, “If you enjoy them, I could provide more next time.”

The Crown Prince waved his hand with a genial smile. “No need for that. I simply wished to relish the flavor.”

Shao Yunduan nodded, and their conversation shifted to court matters before he took his leave.

Later, the Crown Prince instructed a eunuch to set aside a plate of strawberries for Princess Consort. However, she found herself in the company of her three adoring grandchildren, all equally captivated by the berries. Unable to resist their innocent charm, she took only a small bite and shared the rest with them.

The children, mindful not to overindulge, requested the maids to send the remaining strawberries to their home.

During dinner at the Crown Prince’s residence, Princess Consort mentioned the strawberries, mentioning that Shao Yunduan had provided them and that her grandchildren had grown fond of them.

The Crown Prince, his brow furrowing slightly, offered a gentle reminder. “A single bite, my dear. What significance does it hold? The East Palace regularly supplies us with fresh fruits; isn’t that sufficient? We must remember that countless individuals in the world struggle to obtain enough food and clothing, some even lacking the means for an extra piece of attire. We are born into the royal family, blessed with abundance in sustenance and attire. Let us not become entangled in the allure of excess.”

Though Princess Consort felt a pang of irritation, she conceded that the Crown Prince’s words carried undeniable truth.

Unbeknownst to her, countless watchful eyes observed the exchange. She had only asked for a single bite, with the best intentions, yet she was aware that the East Palace might exploit the situation, portraying them as insatiable and oblivious to the sufferings of their subjects. She couldn’t help but think, one bite shouldn’t cause such a stir!

“I stand corrected. Your Highness, please rest assured, I have gained clarity. I will refrain from any ill-considered actions,” she assured.

The Crown Prince let out a resigned sigh. “It’s crucial to comprehend that as the heir to the throne, my actions are bound by responsibility.”

Princess Consort nodded, offering a reassuring smile. “Of course, I understand.”

Inwardly, she consoled herself, considering it a temporary inconvenience she could endure. After all, it had been many years already, hadn’t it? She envisioned a brighter future where the Crown Prince ascended to the throne, and she became Queen, able to have everything she desired. The thought provided solace, brightening her mood.

She always found comfort in these thoughts.

Shao Yunduan’s visit to the East Palace proved highly effective. Everyone now remembered he was the Crown Prince’s favorite.

However, this time, when he brought strawberries to the East Palace for the Crown Prince to sample, it was clear that impatience was building. It wouldn’t take a genius to recognize the growing tension.

Unbeknownst to Qiao Xuan, the merchants visiting her home were not ordinary vendors. Someone was undoubtedly pulling the strings behind them. Otherwise, they wouldn’t possess such detailed information and audacity. Fortunately, her husband’s presence provided some protection, making their intrusion less straightforward.

Even though the East Palace didn’t accept strawberry deliveries, Qiao Xuan instructed Shao Yunduan to liaise with the East Palace manager. She proposed that the strawberry seedlings could be transplanted, trimming the leaves in winter while leaving the roots. Additional layers of straw could be added for insulation, ensuring a smooth passage through the winter.