Chapter 426 - Chapter 426: Chapter 413: A Man Should Get Married (1/2)

Chapter 426: Chapter 413: A Man Should Get Married

This made Chu Shengrui feel somewhat regretful, especially when he occasionally saw some ministers in the court having a close and uninhibited relationship with their sons. He would feel a tremendous sense of envy.

Therefore, among his numerous sons, only Chu Yunzhao could behave frivolously in front of him, which gave him a taste of common folk sentiment within the palace.

Consequently, Chu Shengrui was very partial to Chu Yunzhao.

Even now, as Chu Yunzhao spoke, Chu Shengrui knocked lightly on his forehead and said, “You’re such a big fellow, how could I possibly not see you?”

“Is Father suggesting that I have put on weight?” Chu Yunzhao continued to jest.

“Not exactly. You’ve grown taller,” Chu Shengrui replied with a laugh, “I remember when I saw you and Jinnian before, Jinnian seemed to be a bit taller. Now it seems you two are more or less the same height.”

“Naturally. After all, I am the older brother. It wouldn’t look good if I were to be shorter than my younger brother,” Chu Yunzhao laughed, “But it’s probably because I’ve been practicing martial arts every day recently.”

“Practicing martial arts will of course benefit your physique,” Chu Shengrui laughed back, patting Chu Yunzhao on the shoulder.

He did feel a bit more solid than before.

“Stop your antics, you’re tiring your father by making him stand out here,” chimed in Concubine Hui, as she offered her arm to Chu Shengrui, “Let’s go inside and chat.”

Chu Shengrui placed his hand on Concubine Hui’s and nodded affectionately before walking in. Seeing that the food was still on the table, he laughed and asked, “Having lunch?”

“Yes, it is late but we’re almost finished. Allow me to order the food to be cleared away. Let’s go to Yinlu Pavilion instead,” Concubine Hui suggested.

“No need. I have yet to have lunch today. Why don’t I just have something here, besides, Yunzhao and Jinnian are here too. It’s been quite some time since I’ve dined with the two of them.” Chu Shengrui replied with a laugh.

“Then I will order the kitchen to make a few more dishes,” Concubine Hui smiled and continued, “Perhaps they could prepare a few of your favorite dishes.”

“Jinnian recently brought back some fresh ingredients that I believe you have not yet tasted. I find them quite delicious. Why don’t you try some?”

“Alright,” Chu Shengrui agreed with a nod.

Concubine Hui promptly ordered the dishes to be made and new tableware to be brought out.

“I wonder how His Majesty found the time to visit my quarters today. I recall that you mentioned yesterday you haven’t visited the Empress in a while and planned to have lunch with her today.”

“I initially intended to, but received a message from the Empress saying that the Princess Qi suddenly decided to pay a visit to the palace today. In addition to that, she has to deal with Yunhe’s matter of taking a concubine. She was feeling weary and I didn’t wish to disturb her, and just so happened to be craving the meatballs from your kitchen, so I came here for lunch,” explained Chu Shengrui.

Chu Yunzhao and Chu Jinnian exchanged glances.

The Princess Qi, Mrs. Ruo, is visiting the Empress?

Although it’s ostensibly a courtesy visit, it’s likely that she’s come to vent her grievances and discuss countermeasures with the Empress behind closed doors.