Entering the elegant hall, it was already filled with laughter and chatter, quite lively indeed.
Seeing her leading Princess Pingning inside, the young noblewomen quickly stood up and greeted them.
Xie Wanqing, being the hostess, helped with the introductions before they all took their seats.
They were all young girls of similar age, and as Princess Pingning wasn't the type to put on airs, she blended in quickly, joining in the drinking games.
The banquet was full of laughter, with hosts and guests thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Before long, today's main character, Xie Ruyu, also arrived.
Seeing an unfamiliar face sit so closely to her cousin, she paused for a moment.
These days, Xie Wanqing had somewhat understood just how quick-tempered her little cousin could be, and quickly introduced, "This is Princess Pingning of the Lu Family."
Then turning to Pei Yuxuan, she said, "This is my family's second girl, it's her coming-of-age ceremony today."
An official princess, Xie Ruyu dared not be negligent and curtsied in greeting.
Pei Yuxuan supported her arm and was about to speak when her gaze fell on the bracelet on her wrist. With a slight smile, she said, "So Wanwan fixed this jade bracelet to celebrate her sister's coming-of-age ceremony."
Seeing Xie Ruyu's puzzled look, she further explained, somewhat enviously, "I only have an elder brother at home, no sisters of similar age."
"Sister Xuan, if you don't mind, you can frequently visit my sister and me," Xie Wanqing said, holding each of their hands, but in her heart, she didn't really take those words seriously.
In truth, Princess Duan Yang only has one son and one daughter, but the Lu Family also has collateral branches, not to mention the princesses of the imperial family being her cousins.
Unexpectedly, Pei Yuxuan's expression lit up with joy: "Then I'll take it seriously. In a few days, I'll send you an invitation, and you mustn't refuse with an excuse."
Xie Wanqing naturally responded with a smile.
The other young noblewomen at the table also joined in the fun, "Princess, don't forget about us."
One pot of wine after another was warmed, and when everyone was slightly tipsy, Xie Wanqing, who was also slightly intoxicated, ordered the maids to clear the feast.
Supporting one reddened, slightly drunk friend after another, she helped them into soft sedan chairs for their departure.
After sending off the last distinguished guest, she heard Pei Yuxuan next to her say cheerfully, "It's my first time at your esteemed mansion, Wanwan, why don't you take me for a walk in the garden to dispel the alcohol."
Xie Wanqing studied her face and saw that although Pei Yuxuan was slightly tipsy, her expression was clear, so she led her towards the garden.
Although the Xie Residence was hosting guests today, it was around mealtime, and most guests were at the table exchanging toasts, with few people wandering in the garden.
The two young women strolled hand in hand, and as the hostess, Xie Wanqing introduced each scene in the garden earnestly.
When Pei Yuxuan seemed a bit tired from the walk, she led her down another path, saying, "There's a scenic pavilion ahead; let's go there to rest and make a pot of tea to sober up."
The pavilion was set by the lakeside, perfect for appreciating lotus in summer and snow in winter.
But upon arrival, they found someone had already occupied it.
It was Xie Yanyu with a few of his friends.
Xie Wanqing looked closely and recognized that Pei Yuqing was also up there.
Before she could confirm, Pei Yuxuan exclaimed with delight, "It's your brother and my brother."
Having proposed the garden walk, she had been somewhat absent-minded, but now her tone uplifted, clearly happier.
Xie Wanqing felt a strange sensation in her heart, her gaze landing on Xie Yanyu in the pavilion.
As she hesitated, those in the pavilion noticed them and looked over.
"Let's go," Pei Yuxuan said, taking her arm, "The wine makes my mouth dry; let's go ask for a cup of tea."
Xie Wanqing had no time to voice any objection before she was pulled up the steps. Seeing Pei Yuxuan so joyful, she finally realized what all the princess's actions today were about.
...Truly a case of the drunkard's heart not lying with alcohol.
"Brothers, Heir Xie," Pei Yuxuan greeted upon reaching the pavilion, smiling brightly, "Wanwan and I got a bit tired from the garden walk and came to ask for some tea."
Xie Yanyu, wearing a long green robe, his broad sleeves gently moved by the wind, nodded slightly at her words and leisurely poured two cups of tea, "Please, Princess."
His voice was clear and melodious, each action carrying his unique charm; alongside that striking face, it indeed could win a young girl's heart.
Only as a sister did Xie Wanqing know her brother's charms ended at his face.
His personality is stiff and dull, not to mention that he has the pedantic manners of a gentleman, with a great fondness for lecturing.
Surprisingly, the princess seems to like her brother!
With two extra chairs provided by servants, Xie Wanqing sat down, her mind wandering to the dreams where she married into the Lu Family, and her brother still hadn't married after two years.
She wondered if the princess had married by then.
Noticing his sister's distraction, Xie Yanyu frowned slightly, "Drunk?"
"...I drank," Xie Wanqing replied, snapping back to reality and holding up two fingers, whispering, "I drank two pots in total."
Saying this, she picked up her teacup, took a small sip to quell the alcohol, and continued, "I'm not drunk."
"Heir Xie truly seems like a stern brother." Pei Yuxuan glanced at Xie Yanyu, smiling, "Wanwan, don't worry, we're not drunk."
"..." Xie Wanqing, understanding her thoughts, pursed her lips and kept her head down.
Suddenly, a man's hand appeared below her view, gripping a teapot with long, refined fingers, steadily refilling her empty cup.
Xie Wanqing tilted her head and looked over, meeting a pair of gentle eyes. She paused for a moment, realizing Pei Yuqing sat next to her.
Sitting closer this time, Xie Wanqing noticed he appeared even more handsome, his features soft, nose elegantly poised, exuding a pure, boyish charm.
He didn't seem like someone in his twenties.
Not until his eyelashes fluttered, turning his face away, did Xie Wanqing realize she'd been staring too long.
She coughed softly in embarrassment and downed her tea in one gulp.
Fortunately, her brother and the others were captivated by Princess Pingning, so no one noticed her audacity.
... Audacity.
What a rare word to be associated with her.
Xie Wanqing felt unusually out of sorts, sitting up perfectly straight, pretending to be interested in their conversation, while in truth feeling uneasy all over.
The person next to her refilled her cup again.
Nervousness often compels people to act, and Xie Wanqing was no different.
She drank again, and finished it in one go.
Pei Yuqing continued to refill, and Xie Wanqing remained unyielding, continuing to drink.
After three cups in succession, Xie Yanyu glanced over and reminded, "Even tea shouldn't be consumed in excess."
"Alright," Xie Wanqing, reflexively setting down her cup, nodded obediently, "I know."
This obedience brought a slight smile to the youth beside her.
Pei Yuxuan let out a soft laugh, her eyes shining as she looked at him, praising, "Brother Xie is truly a good brother."