Chapter 8: How is it him?!

A cold male voice rang out, causing everyone present to change their expression, especially Hua Kunqing, whose face turned as black as charcoal. He had never imagined that he would encounter Hua Ruyan in the courtyard at a time like this, and even more so, an Hua Ruyan who lacked even a shred of the image of a well-bred young lady. In the past, because he had—spoiled—this daughter of his, although he knew her temper was somewhat ill-natured, he had only ever offered lukewarm reprimands; it seemed he had failed to teach Hua Ruyan a lesson.

The Mid-Autumn Banquet was fast approaching. If the Sixth Prince were to mention even a few words to the Emperor, Hua Ruyan would likely never have the chance to enter the Emperor's inner palace in her entire life! Fortunately, Hua Ruyan's appearance had completely changed; the Sixth Prince had never seen Yan'er, so pulling off a deception would not be difficult.

"To answer the Prince, she is not my daughter, but merely a daughter of a relative who has come to visit. I did not wish to disturb Your Highness, and it was truly my fault! I beg the Prince to show mercy for my sake and overlook this minor transgression..."

As Hua Kunqing spoke, he continuously observed Jun Changqi's expression. Large beads of sweat formed on his temples, yet the other party did not even lift an eyelid, maintaining that same cold expression from before, showing no discernible emotion.

If this were anyone else, the matter would be easier to handle, but it happened to be this Sixth Prince, Jun Changqi. Even though Hua Kunqing had been slick and smooth in the imperial court for many years, he still could not grasp this Sixth Prince's temperament. Whenever Jun Changqi was present, every official in the court had to tread carefully and watch his expression before speaking. Although Jun Changqi was merely a Prince, he had the Empress Dowager backing him; even the Emperor had to weigh his options before making a decision.

"Aiyoh!"

The crowd, who had already been in a state of disarray, was once again shocked by the scene before them. Even Hua Kunqing froze in place in horror.

And finally, a ripple of emotion appeared on Jun Changqi's face.

Hua Rumuo forced an awkward smile. Even without looking up, she knew that all eyes were now pinned firmly upon her. She had been immersed in her own thoughts just now and had completely failed to realize there was someone in front of her. By the time she snapped out of it, she had already crashed into an embrace. A man's embrace, no less. And the embrace of a man who was not to be trifled with.

However, this embrace seemed to carry a faint hint of a familiar scent...

"Prime Minister, is this person not also your daughter?"

By this time, Hua Rumuo had moved out of Jun Changqi's immediate space and stood to the side with her head lowered. Strands of fine hair fell, obscuring about thirty percent of her face, yet the remaining seventy percent was enough to enchant all living beings. A small, exquisite nose, a mouth as thin and delicate as a cherry, and watery eyes cast downward with long eyelashes trembling slightly like feathers. Just a moment ago, her gaze had met his for a fleeting second; those dark eyes were not lacking in brightness, yet they carried a faint coldness, as if they could see through everything. Beyond that, however, there was no sign of panic or fluster, which caused Jun Changqi to raise an eyebrow slightly, thinking to himself that this woman was somewhat different.

"However, the Prime Minister has a daughter named Hua Ruyan, who is said to possess a beauty that could topple kingdoms. The lady before us wears no makeup and is dressed in simple plain clothes, yet her beauty is not hidden. Surely, this must be Miss Hua Ruyan."

"The Prince has keen eyes. This is indeed my daughter, Yan'er. It was truly a transgression to have offended the Prince just now. Yan'er, hurry and apologize to the Sixth Prince!"

Since Jun Changqi had already put it that way, Hua Kunqing had no choice but to follow his lead. He secretly observed Jun Changqi, and seeing that his expression had returned to normal without any suspicion, he felt a slight sense of relief in his heart.

Hua Ruyan had originally felt extremely displeased upon hearing Jun Changqi praise Hua Rumuo's beauty. Now, seeing her father actually introducing that little wench Hua Rumuo as herself to the Sixth Prince made her even more furious. However, just as she raised her head to argue, she collided with Jun Changqi's cold gaze that happened to be cast her way. The man exuded an intimidating aura from head to toe, leaving her so terrified that she lost her words entirely. She hurriedly lowered her head, cold sweat soaking her collar, as if she had just returned from the gates of hell.

This terrifying aura actually reminded her of that mask-wearing man who was like an Asura.

Listening to Hua Kunqing's tone, Hua Rumuo could sense that the man before her was very troublesome. To avoid bringing extra trouble upon herself, she intended to temporarily play the role of Hua Ruyan according to Hua Kunqing's words.

"Ruyan was reckless. Due to a momentary lapse in attention, I offended the Prince. I offer my apologies to Your Highness here..." Hua Rumuo casually raised her eyes, only to see the face of the man in front of her. Her entire being felt as if struck by electricity, pinning her to the spot, unable to move.

How could it be him? How could it be him!?