The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

The barbecue at the villa was a lively and warm affair. The charcoal fire crackled, filling the air with a delicious aroma, and the courtyard resonated with long-lost laughter. Most of the ingredients were brought from Chen Mengyao's spatial storage—a rich variety, fresh and delicious, including not only high-quality pork belly, beef, and lamb, but also various vegetable skewers, mushrooms, and seafood, even a full range of seasonings, all laid out on the long table. She also specially brought out some ingredients for sweet soup, asking the villa's chef to prepare a pot of sweet and nourishing soup, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth to this lively gathering.

The royal family members sat around a charcoal grill in the courtyard, enjoying the fragrant roasted meat while chatting and laughing happily. They reminisced about past anecdotes, their laughter echoing as if time had turned back, transporting them back to their carefree youth. King Wen picked up a sizzling piece of pork belly, remarking with emotion, "Since my third brother Han'er and Yao'er went to the modern world, they've rarely returned to Dongling Kingdom. It's been so long since we've all gathered for a barbecue."

“That’s right!” Prince An agreed with a smile. “In the past, during festivals, Third Sister-in-law would always bring out some strange and delicious things, especially this roast meat. The taste, tsk tsk, it’s simply addictive!”

Prince Duan nodded and said, "Yes, the barbecue just doesn't feel right without Third Brother and Third Sister-in-law. We're finally all together again today."

Hearing these compliments, Chen Mengyao smiled shyly and said, "Don't flatter me. I just took the food out. The chefs in the kitchen are the ones who really worked hard."

The eldest princess chuckled and said, "Yao'er, don't be modest. You have so many different kinds of things in your space. Without what you provide, where would we get so much delicious food?"

Emperor Yongchang sat in the main seat, looking at his brothers and sisters enjoying themselves together, his heart filled with joy. He raised a cup of wine and said softly, "Come, let's toast Yao'er and Han'er to thank them for returning and to give us the opportunity to get together."

Everyone raised their glasses and responded in unison: "To our third brother/third brother and third sister-in-law/third sister-in-law!"

Ouyang Han smiled and accepted the wine glass, returning the toast with Chen Mengyao: "We're all family, no need for such formalities. It's a rare occasion for everyone to gather together, and we're very happy."

Besides the barbecue, Chen Mengyao also prepared a variety of drinks and fruit wines for the guests to enjoy as they pleased. She thoughtfully provided non-alcoholic beverages for the elders and even brought out a basket of seasonal fruits, ensuring everyone could eat and drink to their heart's content. Whether it was the refreshing peach juice or the slightly intoxicating osmanthus wine, everyone tasted it and praised it highly.

Chen Mengyao's grandparents and maternal grandparents watched all this with beaming smiles, their eyes filled with joy. Seeing their granddaughter so beloved and the family so happy together, the elderly couple felt indescribably happy. Their gazes gently swept over the faces of each young person, as if witnessing the most beautiful moment of their extended family.

Grandpa stroked his beard and smiled as he said to Emperor Yongchang beside him, “Your Majesty, look how well these children get along. They’re like a family, without any restraint.”

Emperor Yongchang nodded and smiled, "Yes, my younger brothers and sisters grew up together and have a deep bond. Moreover, Yao'er is sincere and kind-hearted, and has done many good things for our Dongling Kingdom. Everyone likes her."

Grandma held the eldest princess's hand and said lovingly, "You children must come to Shanghai for a couple of days when you have time. My husband and I live there, and Yao'er's parents and other relatives are also there. Our house is quite spacious, so we will definitely treat you well when you come. I will also ask my sons to take you out to play."

The eldest princess smiled sweetly: "Thank you, Grandma, we will definitely go! We'll go to Shanghai to pay New Year's visits together during the Spring Festival."

The second princess excitedly added, "Yes, I also want to go out and travel. Although I went to Shanghai last time, I only visited a few attractions in a hurry. I heard that the scenery there is particularly beautiful and there is a lot of delicious food."

Emperor Yongchang smiled slightly after hearing this and said, "Then let's set it for the New Year. I haven't been out and about for a long time, so I'll take this opportunity to relax and visit the other elders and relatives in the Chen family."

The princes and princesses all nodded in agreement, promising to travel to Shanghai to spend a reunion year with the elderly. This promise, like a lamp lit in the night, illuminated their hearts.

After spending these past few days together, the elders have become much less reserved with the young royals, treating them with the same warmth and affection they would show their grandchildren. They, in turn, have shown exceptional respect and care for the elders, forging a deep bond that transcends time and space, transforming them into a true family.

As night deepened, the courtyard remained brightly lit, and laughter continued. The charcoal fire still burned, its warmth illuminating the happy faces. This unique barbecue party not only allowed the royal family members to rediscover the warmth of family and friendship, but also allowed the elders of the Chen family to feel the care and respect from outside their own clan.

As the barbecue atmosphere drew to a close, the chefs, with steady yet agile steps, presented their meticulously prepared sweet soups one by one. Served in delicate bowls, the soups gleamed enticingly under the soft light, like twinkling stars in the night sky. Steam rose from the bowls, carrying wisps of sweet aroma, like graceful sprites dancing in the air, dispersing gently.

Everyone gently picked up their cups of sugar water and carefully took a sip. Instantly, the sweet taste spread slowly in their mouths like a warm current, then flowed down their throats, as if the sweetness reached the softest corner of their hearts.

"Hmm, this sweet soup tastes really good, sweet but not cloying, just right." King Wen nodded slightly, a contented expression on his face, and said slowly. "Yes, such a sweet taste makes one linger, as if all worries have been dispelled by this sweetness."

Prince Duan quickly echoed, a hint of delight in his eyes. Everyone savored a bowl of sweet soup, the sweetness like a gentle spring breeze, lightly brushing against their hearts, dispelling all fatigue and weariness.

In this heartwarming moment, an indescribable sense of happiness welled up in everyone's hearts. The eldest princess slowly tilted her head back, gazing at the deep and mysterious starry sky, her eyes sparkling with light. She softly remarked, "Sometimes, the happiness we so desperately seek is actually this simple—a family gathered together peacefully and in harmony. Just like now, free from the complex struggles of the court, free from the tedious and lengthy rituals, there is only our family, sharing this hard-won peace and joy in this tranquil and warm atmosphere." Hearing this, everyone nodded in agreement, their eyes filled with conviction.

After everyone had thoroughly enjoyed the meal in the courtyard and were completely satisfied, they slowly stood up and strolled back into the hall to continue chatting about the little things in life.

At this moment, there was still some uneaten food on the table outside the courtyard. Emperor Yongchang slightly raised his hand and gently gestured to the servants. His eyes were filled with gentleness and affection as he slowly said, "Take these leftovers. Clean them up carefully after you finish eating." Upon hearing His Majesty's instruction, the servants immediately bowed respectfully and said in unison, "Yes, Your Majesty."

About half an hour later, everyone returned to their rooms to rest. In the rooms, the candlelight flickered, casting a soft glow. Everyone was immersed in this comfort and contentment, and soon drifted off into a sweet dream.

The next day, the morning sunlight streamed through the cracks in the window, casting golden threads onto the floor and bringing warmth and brightness to the room. Emperor Yongchang and the Empress rose early to begin preparations for their return to the palace.

Emperor Yongchang turned his head slightly, looked at the Empress beside him, and said softly, "This trip has been truly enjoyable, but there are many affairs in the palace, piling up like mountains. We should go back now." The Empress nodded slightly, a faint smile on her face, and replied, "Your Majesty is right. The palace certainly cannot do without Your Majesty's management and oversight."

The other princes and princesses also rose one after another, preparing to leave. Yongle, however, resolutely decided to stay. She gently walked to Chen Mengyao's side, her eyes filled with determination and tenderness, and softly said, "Third Sister-in-law, I'd like to accompany the elders for a walk around the area near the villa. They're new to this place and not yet familiar with everything. I'd like to be their guide so they can better understand this place." Chen Mengyao smiled gratefully and quickly nodded, saying, "Thank you for your trouble, Yongle."

And so, Chen Mengyao's grandparents lived very comfortably and happily in the villa. Yongle was with them every day, taking them around to explore and experience the local customs and culture.

On this day, they arrived at a farm near the villa. The farm was a vibrant scene, with lush green crops swaying gently in the breeze, like a green ocean in motion.

"Oh my, look at these potatoes, sweet potatoes, and all those fresh vegetables and fruits growing so well!" Grandpa squatted down, his eyes full of curiosity and surprise. He carefully examined the crops, as if admiring a rare treasure. "This must be thanks to our Yao'er," Grandma said with a smile, her face beaming with pride, her smile as radiant as a blooming flower.

“That’s right, this child is kind-hearted and compassionate. Even after coming here, she hasn’t forgotten to help the local people solve their food and clothing problems, ensuring everyone has enough to eat and wear.” Grandpa nodded approvingly, his eyes revealing his appreciation and affection for Chen Mengyao. “Yes, no wonder she has won the respect and love of all the royals,” Grandma said with emotion, her eyes filled with satisfaction.

After staying at the villa for a few more days, Chen Mengyao's grandparents and maternal grandparents began to discuss returning home. The grandfather sighed softly and said slowly, "We're also worried about delaying our granddaughter's/granddaughter's affairs in Guangzhou. Although the scenery here is indeed beautiful and pleasant, making people linger, we still feel more comfortable living in modern times."

Grandma held Chen Mengyao's hand, her eyes full of love and concern, and said softly, "Yao'er, we've decided to stay at your villa for a while, to explore the beautiful scenery of Guangshi and experience its unique charm."

Chen Mengyao nodded quickly and smiled, saying, "No problem, Grandpa and Grandma, Grandpa and Grandma on your mother's side, as long as you're happy. I'll do my best to arrange everything so you can have a pleasant time." Then, Chen Mengyao told Yongle to go home first. She looked at Yongle sincerely, her eyes full of gratitude, and said, "Yongle, thank you so much for taking care of Grandpa and Grandma on your mother's side these past few days. Because of you, they've been so happy every day. Next time I come back, I'll definitely bring you more delicious food."

Yongle smiled brightly, as radiant as the spring sunshine, and replied, "Third Sister-in-law, the elders have been very kind to me, and I am happy to keep them company. Don't worry, I will miss them."

After Yongle returned to the capital by carriage, Chen Mengyao and Ouyang Han, along with their grandparents and maternal grandparents, entered the space. They went outside the supermarket, gently pressed the time button, and instantly returned to Chen Mengyao's villa in Guang City. Thus, the four elders' trip to Dongling Kingdom officially came to a successful conclusion.