Because she cared too much.
She cared about the Crown Prince's evaluation of her. She cared about her image in the Crown Prince's heart. She feared the existence of any flaws.
"I didn't say anything. I explained it to Madam Shao in detail. I told her that Lord Shao's future would be much better if he stayed in the capital. I was just trying to persuade Madam Shao to convince Lord Shao to give up. I don't know how it ended up like that. Crown Prince, don't you know what kind of person I am…"
The Crown Prince stared at her, his expression unreadable, leaving uncertainty about whether he believed her.
Suddenly, he inquired, "You reprimanded Ms. Qiao for being selfish and jealous, and even claimed she was kidnapped. Is that true?"
Princess Consort froze, contemplating a rebuttal.
Crown Prince continued, "Officer Shao has already informed me, Princess Consort. Don't deceive me. If you lie to me too, I don't know if there is anyone I can trust…"