Chapter 616 - Chapter 616: Chapter 603: Bottom Line (1/2)

Chapter 616: Chapter 603: Bottom Line

“Not exactly.”

Chu Jinnian laughed and said, “It’s just that Doctor Zhuang is not someone who covets fame and wealth, and we got along very well when we first met, having enjoyable conversations and finding mutual understanding. I thought that there was no need to rush this reward. When the time is right, it is not too late for the Emperor to bestow it.”

“Since you’ve said so, we’ll wait until the timing you mentioned is appropriate and bestow upon Doctor Zhuang then.”

Chu Shengrui continued, “However, considering Doctor Zhuang saved your life, it wouldn’t be quite right for me not to reward him at all. I have already prepared a list of rewards, mostly medicinal herbs and items related to medical skills, which I think Doctor Zhuang would appreciate.”

“Since you just mentioned that you have a close relationship with Doctor Zhuang, you can arrange for someone to deliver these items to him.”

Chu Jinnian taking the initiative to reward Doctor Zhuang would show his gratefulness and sense of reciprocity.

Chu Jinnian understood Chu Shengrui’s intention and expressed his gratitude, “I understand, I will convey Doctor Zhuang’s gratitude to the Emperor.”

“Since it is about awarding for meritorious services, he deserves these. You don’t have to be so courteous,” Chu Shengrui laughed and picked up his chopsticks. “We were so engrossed in this matter that we didn’t notice all the dishes have been served. Let’s eat.”

“I was waiting for the Emperor to speak. If I had waited any longer, my stomach would have flattened from hunger,” Chu Yunzhao joked, unable to wait any longer, he picked up his chopsticks and began to get food.

However, before serving himself, he first picked a piece of pickled goose for both Chu Shengrui and Concubine Hui. Only then did he serve himself a piece of ham, and started to eat with relish.

This was Chu Yunzhao for you. He was lively and mischievous on the surface, but he never failed to display the proper etiquette. He didn’t give anyone any room to find fault with him.

He exhibited the proper demeanor of a prince, and he also showed the affection and closeness of a son.

This made Chu Shengrui feel very comfortable. He couldn’t help smiling and there was an increased warmth in his eyes as he looked at Chu Yunzhao. He even helped pick out a piece of chicken with begonia and chestnut for Chu Shengrui, putting it into his bowl.

“Thank you, Father,” Chu Yunzhao said, thanking him and continued eating even more eagerly.

“Slow down, nobody’s going to snatch your food,” Concubine Hui chided him coquettishly. “The Emperor is increasingly indulging Yunzhao.”

“I am the Emperor, and I am also a father. It’s only natural for me to pamper my own son,” Chu Shengrui said laughingly, then picked a piece of black chicken for Concubine Hui. “You have looked a little pale these past few days. You need to take in more nourishment.”

“I remember there are newly arrived blood bird’s nests in the palace. I’ve already ordered some to be sent to your palace. Remember to eat them regularly.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Concubine Hui smiled gracefully and lowered her head to continue eating, her lips curving upwards slightly.

She didn’t normally care much about being favored.

With the Qiao family’s status behind her, the Emperor would treat her better than the other concubines after weighing the pros and cons.

However, since entering the palace, she and the Emperor have gotten along very well, which made Concubine Hui genuinely fond of this merciless royal family. Especially Chu Shengrui’s constant care for her, made her feel a deep affection for him.