Just as they were about to leave the tea room, a court lady hurriedly spoke from outside the door.
“Your Majesty—the court lady from Daeyeong Lodge is requesting an audience.”
At the mention of ‘Daeyeong Lodge’, Hwayeong’s attention sharpened. Worried that Sinyeong had done something else, she paused in her steps.
The Empress answered promptly.
“Let her in.”
As the door opened behind them, Hwayeong and Seonhwa stepped out.
But just as they started down the corridor, a faint voice echoed from inside the tea room:
“His Highness the Crown Prince has collapsed.”
* * *
‘Is he faking it again? Or... is his lovesickness actually getting worse?’
On her way back from Hwamun Lodge, Hwayeong stared at the ground, unable to stop thinking about Sinyeong.
Noticing her uncharacteristic silence, Seonhwa gave her a gentle nudge on the arm.
“What’s wrong?”
“Hm?”
“You look deep in thought.”
“It’s nothing.”
“You’re not still thinking about that Hongjin girl, are you?”
“Oh...”
