All right, I'll carry you on my back.

Nighttime at Uncle’s House in Bamboo Heart Village

By the time Zhao Chengxian arrived at his uncle’s house last night, Hui Yue’er had already retired to her room. There were two guest rooms in the house; naturally, Hui Yue’er and Sirou shared one, while Zhao Chengxian was assigned to share with Hui Qinghui. Not daring to provoke Zhao Chengxian, Hui Qinghui chose to sleep on the floor, while Zhao Chengxian lay on the bed, recalling the sorrowful look in Hui Yue’er’s eyes just moments before. He gingerly touched his cheek, still stinging from her slap, and deeply regretted his words: What’s wrong with me? How could I have said such things? It was as if I’d implied that what lay between Yue’er and me was nothing more than a game of revenge—a thoughtless game. No wonder she was so angry! He understood Yue’er’s feelings and swore inwardly to explain everything to her tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Hui Yue’er was being questioned by Sirou about her relationship with Zhao Chengxian. Sirou lay beside Yue’er, glancing at her and asking softly, “Yue’er, may I call you that?” Her tone was gentle and warm. Yue’er, distracted, nodded absently. Sirou pressed on, “Yue’er, how did you end up coming here with my brother?” It was all because of her and Hui Qinghui. If it weren’t for them, Yue’er and Zhao Chengxian would never have met, let alone become so entangled.

Yue’er understood that Sirou was curious about why she and Zhao Chengxian had quarreled today, but she was too exhausted to explain. Fatigued, Yue’er glanced at Sirou and said, “Princess, I’m very tired today. Let’s talk another time.” In truth, Yue’er herself wasn’t sure how to describe her relationship with Zhao Chengxian. She was beginning to doubt it herself. Perhaps it had always been one-sided—she was only ever his tool for revenge. Shaking her head, Yue’er forced herself to stop thinking about it and closed her eyes to sleep.

Morning, on Bamboo Mountain in Bamboo Heart Village

At dawn, Hui Yue’er had already made her way up the mountain, wandering amidst the sea of bamboo and breathing in its fresh, calming fragrance, which soothed her restless heart. At that moment, Zhao Chengxian came running breathlessly up behind her. Seeing him, Yue’er instinctively wanted to flee, but Zhao Chengxian caught her gently and asked in a soft voice, “Are you still angry?” It was plain from her expression that she was; she didn’t answer him, but neither did she run away. She simply stood there, eyes fixed on the bamboo ahead.

Zhao Chengxian moved to stand before her and said, “Last night, I lost my head because your brother infuriated me, and I spoke without thinking. The truth is, I brought you to the Prince’s residence not because I feared you’d run away, but to temper your spirit. Did you know? Until you, no girl ever dared speak to me that way. Since I never intended to take revenge on your brother from the start, why would I later? Besides, if I ever truly wanted revenge, I certainly wouldn’t use such methods, nor waste my time like this.” He had given so much for Yue’er—because of her, he had deceived his best friend; because of her, he had tried to forgive Hui Qinghui; and for her, he willingly endured the pain of longing.

Yue’er, though her heart understood, pretended to be angry and shook off Zhao Chengxian’s hand. “So, being with me is just a waste of your time?” Of course, she knew what he meant—she was only being playful. A strong and independent woman only acts coy before the one she loves. No matter how fiercely she fights in the world, before her beloved she remains a little woman, given to affection and tenderness. Surely, such women could never be left alone.

From behind, Zhao Chengxian embraced her and said, “You know that’s not what I meant. All right, what do you want me to do to make it up to you?” He knew she was just being willful and trusted she wouldn’t go too far.

Yue’er considered for a moment, then replied, “If our dashing Prince Zhao would carry this humble girl on his back, all my anger would vanish!” It was a simple request, nothing difficult at all.

Zhao Chengxian bent down before her and said, “Very well, I’ll carry you!” He shook his head in resignation—this mischievous Yue’er.

With a smile, Yue’er climbed onto his back. Zhao Chengxian spun her around in a circle. Joyful, Yue’er laughed and asked, “Bookworm, are you truly sincere with me?” Even the little monkeys on the mountainside could hear their laughter.

Zhao Chengxian laughed heartily, “Yes, this bookworm is utterly sincere with Little Crescent Moon, and he will cherish her all his life!” Happiness need not be measured by material things; a heartfelt declaration is enough. After a while, hand in hand, they returned to Uncle’s house.

Ladies and gentlemen, young and old, and everyone in between, shower me with your gold medals, red envelopes, and gifts! Don’t hold back—let the storm rage on even fiercer!