The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

Chapter 17 Living Together in the Separate Courtyard

When Chen Mengyao woke up, dinner was already prepared and delivered to her room, the table laden with exquisite dishes. In the center was a steamed sea bass, its body delicately scored, the flesh tender and white, like jade, the sauce glistening enticingly, garnished with scallions and cilantro like emerald gems. Beside it was a plate of jade shrimp, their translucent colors like jade itself. The shrimp were plump and fresh, exuding a subtle ocean aroma. Each shrimp was meticulously prepared, its surface slightly glistening with oil, shimmering with an alluring sheen.

The side dish consisted of stir-fried seasonal vegetables, their tender green leaves still carrying the fresh scent of morning dew. Besides these, there was also a dish of sweet and sour pork ribs. Each rib was coated in a thick, amber-colored sauce, almost dripping, as if the ribs were dressed in a luxurious coat.

Chen Mengyao gently picked up her chopsticks, first taking a bite of sweet and sour pork ribs. The sweet and sour flavor danced on her tongue, followed by the satisfying sensation of meat separating easily from bone. The crunchy cartilage added a touch of fun. Next, she picked up a piece of fish, its tender and smooth texture sliding down her throat almost without chewing. Then, she placed a jade shrimp in her mouth, gently biting down. The shrimp's tenderness and elasticity exploded in her mouth. The delicate and smooth texture seemed to dance on her tongue. The shrimp's fresh and delicious flavor instantly spread, with a hint of sweetness, leaving a lingering aftertaste. This jade shrimp dish was not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. It combined the shrimp's freshness with the emerald green of the jade, providing a double enjoyment for both the eyes and the palate. Finally, she took a bite of stir-fried vegetables, their refreshing taste perfectly balancing the richness of the meat.

Among the delicacies on this table, there is a nourishing soup that should not be missed. This nourishing soup, which Ouyang Han prepared for Chen Mengyao to relax muscles and promote blood circulation, is called "Yaohua Yulu Soup".

The soup has a pale amber color, clear and transparent, like a spring. A few delicate flower petals adorn the broth, their pink hue reminiscent of rosy clouds, giving it a fresh and elegant feel. The soup is rich and flavorful, with a subtle herbal aroma. Upon tasting, the first sensation is the delicate fragrance of the flower, followed by the mellow flavors of various nourishing herbs, creating distinct layers and a lingering aftertaste. The smooth and refreshing broth makes it easy to drink, as if one's meridians are being unblocked and blood circulation is improved. The main dish is white rice, each grain plump like a pearl.

The dessert was osmanthus cake, its snow-white surface dotted with tiny golden osmanthus blossoms. The soft, chewy texture and the fragrant aroma of osmanthus filled the mouth, making one feel as if strolling beneath an osmanthus tree. The drink was a pot of warm floral wine. A light sip released a delicate blend of floral and wine aromas, subtly permeating the nose and mouth, like being immersed in a springtime flower garden. These delicacies were all meticulously prepared by the Prince's chefs, specially for the special guest, Chen Mengyao.

In this secluded courtyard, even fine food was a unique pleasure, allowing Chen Mengyao to feel Ouyang Han's special thoughtfulness. After dinner, the maids quickly cleared away the tableware and brought hot water for her to wash up. After washing up, she lay on the soft couch, watching the moonlight stream into the room through the window, thinking that life in this secluded courtyard was quite pleasant.

Just then, Ouyang Han entered. He knocked on the door and asked, "Yaoyao, are you asleep?" Chen Mengyao quickly got up, changed her clothes, and said, "The door isn't locked, come in." So Ouyang Han strode in, sat down at the table, and asked her, "Was dinner good tonight? Are you tired? If not, how about I take you to the rooftop to see the moon?" Chen Mengyao had slept too much in the afternoon and didn't feel tired at all. She nodded quickly and said, "Dinner was good tonight. Great. I couldn't sleep anyway. I also want to experience the feeling of flying with your light-body skills."

So she put on a cloak and prepared to go out, but Ouyang Han remembered her injured foot, so he quickly went over, picked her up, and carried her outside. Once outside, Ouyang Han put her down, had her hold onto his shoulders, and then, with his arm around her waist, lifted her into the air. Chen Mengyao felt a light push off her feet, and she was soaring into the air. The wind whistled past her ears, and her heart leaped into her throat. Ouyang Han's strong arms held her tightly around the waist, giving her a sense of security.

She looked down and saw the ground receding further and further away, the once towering trees becoming dwarfed, and the houses resembling delicate boxes. Moonlight bathed the earth, like a layer of silver frost. This shift in perspective thrilled her, as if she had become a free and unfettered bird.

As Ouyang Han soared higher, the air grew crisper and fresher. She took a deep breath, feeling her lungs fill with a sense of freedom. The air currents created by her light-footed technique ruffled her hair, tickling yet pleasantly comfortable. Each rise and sway felt like leaping through the clouds. This wondrous sensation overwhelmed her senses, almost making her shout with joy. At this moment, she was completely immersed in the wonder of this world filled with magical martial arts.

Soon, Ouyang Han brought her to a rooftop with a stunning view, set her down, and gently helped her sit down. Chen Mengyao sat on the rooftop, looking up at the bright moon in the sky. The moon was round and bright, surrounded by a soft halo, like the most dazzling pearl in the night sky. Her eyes were filled with amazement and joy, and the corners of her mouth unconsciously turned up.

Ouyang Han sat quietly beside her, turning his head to look at her profile. The moonlight shone on her face, casting a soft glow. "Is the moon here more beautiful than the one in your hometown?" Ouyang Han asked softly.

Chen Mengyao tilted her head slightly, thought for a moment, and then said, "Each has its own merits, but watching the moon here has a special charm, perhaps because you are here with me." After saying that, her face flushed slightly.

Ouyang Han's heart stirred, and he gently took her hand. Chen Mengyao didn't pull away, but her heart suddenly raced. The two sat quietly, enjoying the tranquility and beauty under the moonlight. A gentle breeze blew, lifting the hem of their clothes, as if dancing lightly for this beautiful moment. A few chirps of insects drifted from afar, like a soft serenade, accompanying them as they reveled in the moonlight.

The two sat there, admiring the beautiful moonlight, their hearts growing closer. Chen Mengyao also enjoyed the tranquility of the moment; this peaceful life was what she had always wanted. If it could continue like this forever, it would be wonderful. Having her lover by her side was a simple happiness. Lost in thought, she unknowingly fell asleep on Ouyang Han's shoulder. Seeing her asleep, Ouyang Han carried her back, gently placed her on the bed, took off her shoes, applied some ointment, tucked her in, and sat quietly by the bed, watching her sweet sleeping face. He couldn't resist gently kissing her forehead before closing the door and going back to rest.

Tap the screen to use advanced tools Tip: You can use left and right keyboard keys to browse between chapters.

You'll Also Like