He would never discuss such matters with other officials. Talking about one’s wife or the goings-on of the inner household would only be seen as lacking the breadth of a gentleman or the dignity befitting a Crown Prince.
Yet, the Crown Prince was actually quite fond of pondering these things. Born into the imperial family, every ounce of affection he received was tainted with purpose and scrutiny—it was never clean, never pure. Thus, whenever he witnessed a loving couple or a harmonious family, his eyes would inevitably linger for a moment longer.
Since becoming acquainted with Qi Jinshan and learning of the "rebellious" history between him and Xie Mingyue, the Crown Prince had become quite intrigued. In his idle moments, he would often tease Qi Jinshan about his reputation as a doting husband. However, Qi Jinshan always remained open and magnanimous, unmoved by the sneers or sarcasm of surrounding officials. As ten years drifted by, they only served to make him more diligent in his official duties and more meticulous in his devotion to that deep affection.
Chapter 195