The clatter of the palace carriage wheels echoed faintly in the courtyard as the two princes prepared to leave. Jian's dark robes swayed slightly in the morning breeze, and Lei lounged lazily, adjusting the sleeve of his tunic with casual ease. Yuan's stomach sank as he noticed Ming's delicate hands resting on the rail beside him, her eyes still bright with unspent curiosity.
He had hoped the morning tea would end with polite farewells, but now she was lingering, and his instinct screamed at him: Do not be alone with her.
"Your Highness," Yuan said quickly, bowing slightly to Jian. "I, um… I wanted to discuss something with you. Perhaps we could go together?"
Jian raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching in quiet amusement. "If that is your wish. Lei, we'll leave now."
Lei, ever the lazy schemer, tilted his head and grinned. "As you like, gege. I'll see you later." And with a lazy wave, he departed, leaving the three of them in the soft morning sunlight.
