Blissful Days After Widowhood - Chapter 465

Duke Ying’s family must be included. Initially, in Duke Lu’s case, Gu Yin only invited Feng Yu. However, considering Gu Ye’s advice to be cautious in front of people and not display likes and dislikes prominently, Gu Yin and Gu Ye decided to invalidate the previous invitations and issue new ones, inviting the entire Duke Lu’s family.

Fortunately, the turmoil from the previous spring hunt had not subsided. Mrs. Qin and Feng Yuan were still dealing with the aftermath, and they replied that Mrs. Qin was not in good health. Feng Yuan had been at her bed for an extended period. Therefore, only Feng Yu, as the representative of the entire family, was invited. This decision aligned with Gu Ye’s sentiments, as Duke Lu’s family was regarded as a light matter.

Deciding on the other guests was relatively straightforward. Gu Ye sought advice from Emperor Zhengyuan, who suggested inviting based on rank. All civil and military officials above the third grade were sent invitations.

Once the invitations were sent out, responses were received promptly. Most officials planned to attend the banquet themselves, while some expressed their inability to attend and promised to send representatives. Barring special circumstances, the majority had some connection with Duke Lu, either as former colleagues and subordinates of Feng Yuan or through marital ties with the Feng family.

After completing his tasks for the night, Gu Ye finished the list. Gu Yin joined him in sorting out the list. Observing his furrowed brow, she advised, “You know, these people have nothing to do with our family or you. Just treat it as normal and don’t bother.”

Gu Ye nodded and replied, “I used to think too simplistically. I thought being the child of the same Emperor as Lu Xu, sharing the same background, would automatically make the only good outcome mine if I proved myself better. Today, I learned it’s not that simple. There are many people in the shadows fighting.”

Gu Yin, managing the guest list, remarked, “There are many in the shadows and even more in the light.” She pointed to the list and continued, “Look at the civil servants—there’s Old Master Wen, Mr. Li… The military generals include our family and some old troops.”

Gu Ye’s expression relaxed a bit. “Yes, the military generals. Although there are two factions, the civil officials are led by Old Master Wen. Speaking of which, it’s thanks to my mother. I realize how fortunate I am to have such a beautiful and gentle mother like you, who has cared for me with delicious food and drink for several years. Without you, who am I to Uncle and Old Master Wen?” 

Gu Ye’s words weren’t mere flattery; they held undeniable truth.

Wu Qingyi, a loyal minister, refrained from involving himself in the power struggles of the princely factions. Duke Ying’s family had no intention of pursuing higher positions, seeing more disadvantages than benefits in such political entanglements.

If it weren’t for Gu Yin, Wu Qingyi would have undoubtedly supported any prince favored by Emperor Zhengyuan. Even before the crown prince was established, Wu Qingyi had already divided the loyalties among several princes based on Emperor Zhengyuan’s preferences.

Old Master Wen, owing to his long-standing relationship with Gu Yin, watched Gu Ye grow up. This close connection played a crucial role when Emperor Zhengyuan officially recognized Gu Ye as the retroactive prince. Old Master Wen vehemently defended Gu Ye’s position against objections, ensuring a smooth transition to Prince Lie.

“And if I didn’t have a mother, I, a wild child living far, wouldn’t have had the means to come to Beijing, let alone meet my grandmother and the Emperor father in the palace. I don’t know how many years I would spend outside. Imagine if I returned after a few years—forget about the person I would become—let’s just say Lu Xu, despite being a bit clingy now, wouldn’t be bad. However, with Concubine Feng as a mother, Mrs. Qin as a grandmother, and numerous supporters discreetly backing the Feng family, what would he be like? We wouldn’t be this close, and that wouldn’t be good.”

Gu Yin chuckled, “It seems so; I might be a swindler to you, little brat. But I believe you could have found your way even without me; it just would have been a bit more challenging, so relax.”

The casual use of modern vocabulary sometimes slipped into Gu Yin’s speech.

Gu Ye, accustomed to such remarks, didn’t inquire about the meaning. His gaze shifted to the sorted list once again, and a mischievous smile played on his lips, carrying a hint of significance.

“Lu Xu hasn’t even considered challenging me, his brother, but these people are eager to lend their support. We should give them a taste of our determination.”

Curious, Gu Yin asked him what he intended to do. Gu Ye reassured her, “Don’t worry, Mother, I won’t do anything harmful.” He then whispered into Gu Yin’s ear.

After a moment, Gu Yin looked at him with a helpless smile, “You are too cunning.”

 …… 

Gu Ye stayed in Xiefang Hall.

Early the next morning, he rose, and Xiao Luzi and others greeted him with congratulations.

Amid the chorus of well-wishes, Gu Ye felt like he was celebrating his 60th birthday.

He took out the gold and silver coins he had prepared and distributed them to everyone.

As he got dressed, Lu Xu rushed over, exclaiming, “Happy birthday, eldest brother!” While saying this, Lu Xu pouted and leaned in front of Gu Ye. Gu Ye blocked his approaching face with one hand, hastily asking him what he was doing.

Lu Xu explained, “My concubine mother lets me kiss her like this every year on her birthday, and she’s very happy. It’s my first birthday with you, and I’ll give you a kiss too!”

Before Gu Ye could refuse, Lu Xu had already let go of his hand and planted a kiss on his cheek.

Well, what excuse was this? Perplexed, Gu Ye could only ask Xiao Luzi for a handkerchief to wipe the saliva from his face, all the while thanking Lu Xu. Lu Xu was quite generous, stating that there was no need for thanks and that he could give him such a kiss every year in the future. Gu Ye’s hair stood on end, and goosebumps appeared.

The two didn’t continue talking for long, as Gu Ye didn’t have to go to class that day, while Lu Xu had to report to Wenhua Palace as usual.

Before leaving, Lu Xu said to him, “Brother, wait for me at noon, and I will also come to your house.”

“Did you inform the Emperor Father?”

“Yes, the Emperor Father has agreed!” Running short on time, Lu Xu didn’t linger any longer. He greeted Feng Yu to wait for him and hurried off to class.