Le Jinru heaped such high praise upon Ding Wei that he naturally responded with a display of humility. Before long, Yangxin, Ye Qingyi, and Qiu Yao arrived to invite everyone to dine at Emperor Xiong’s living quarters. Eunuch Li, Le Tianya, Le Jinru, and Ding Wei followed them, chatting and laughing all the way.
The Second Princess, who had previously been indifferent toward Ding Wei, was now exceptionally attentive and solicitous toward her future son-in-law. Seeing how well the Second Princess treated him, both the Third Princess and Le Tianya felt a tinge of jealousy. It was a jealousy that fueled a desire to eventually outdo the Second Princess in the kindness they showed Ding Wei.
When dinner concluded, everyone had drunk their fill and made their way back. Observing Qiu Yao swaying as she walked, Ding Wei considerately supported her as they returned to her quarters.
Chapter 475