Ning Rongrong asked again in confusion. Once she saw that Zhu Zhuqing really was all right, she continued pulling her toward the First Prince's palace.
She had visited Xue Qinghe's palace several times, so she had no need to ask the imperial guards to lead the way.
At the entrance to the First Prince's palace.
Xue Qinghe smiled as he greeted each arriving guest. As the crown prince, he had no need to do this, but it was an excellent opportunity to win people's hearts, and he had no intention of letting it slip away.
"The crown prince is so kind. It's his birthday today, too."
"Exactly. He doesn't put on any princely airs, and he's so approachable that it's easy to warm to him. I'd love to be cherished by him."
Several reasonably attractive noblewomen chatted quietly nearby. They were the daughters of ministers aligned with the crown prince, and an air of elegance surrounded them.
Their voices were a little loud, however, and quite a few people heard them.
Most simply smiled and let it pass. Everyone knew that the crown prince had no sweetheart, and who knew how many times ministers had approached Xue Ye to discuss securing a marriage decree.
"Your Highness, I must drink several toasts to you tonight," an elderly man in noble attire said respectfully to Xue Qinghe.
Xue Qinghe smiled. "Of course, of course. Tonight, none of us will go home sober!"
Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing stood at the back of the crowd. As the line ahead dwindled, their turn was drawing near.
"Zhu Zhuqing, what do you think of Brother Qinghe? He's handsome, a wonderful conversationalist, and so composed and gracious when he speaks. His smile is gentle, too."
Seeing Ning Rongrong trying to sell her on a boyfriend, Zhu