Chapitre 40: Practice
After their long day out, a warm shower was just what they needed. The servants had prepared hot food and a change of clothes for them, and they dined together in a cozy room, their spirits lifted by the comforts of home. The soft glow of lanterns illuminated their faces, casting a warm and intimate atmosphere over the room.
Despite the warmth of their surroundings, an invisible barrier seemed to separate them, stifling the flow of conversation. In fact, after farewelling Gu Yunzhi, neither of them spoke, clearly embarrassed by the events of the carriage.
Long Dahai, observing Han Aeng's graceful composure, had initially perceived her as a polite and adaptable individual, capable of handling even the most challenging situations with grace. On the other hand, Han Aeng had perceived Long Dahai as a cautious man with a strong sense of responsibility, as demonstrated by his insistence on her safety and his commitment to ensuring it.
However, watching each other interact with Gu Yunzhi confirmed their suspicions that the other felt uncomfortable in their presence.
"How was today's outing?" Long Dahai finally initiated a casual conversation, attempting to break their tension.
Han Aeng felt a surge of relief wash over her. The silence was slowly eating her alive.
She carefully placed her chopsticks down, using the moment to gather her thoughts before responding. "The day was most enjoyable." She wrinkled her nose, her eyes briefly averted as she searched for the appropriate words. "However, chenqie cannot deny that the introduction as someone's wife... made chenqie feel..."
Han Aeng's sociable nature meant she was never one to shy away from conversations. Likewise, Long Dahai, accustomed to daily dealings with many individuals as a prince, was equally at ease in social interactions.
Yet, despite their ease with others, they found themselves tiptoeing around each other as if unsure of each other's boundaries.
"Somewhat unsettled?" Long Dahai observed her carefully, his reassuring smile never faltering. "Introducing someone else as a spouse is indeed a unique experience," he affirmed gently, his gaze tender as it met hers.
"Well, chenqie, suppose we'll get used to it eventually," Han Aeng responded, offering a small, hesitant smile. Her fingers absently traced the rim of her cup. The sooner, the better.
Long Dahai mirrored her actions, his movements deliberate. "Shall we practice then?"
Intrigued, Han Aeng tilted her head, a spark of curiosity dancing in her eyes. "Practice?"
"It's better to feel awkward in each other's company than in front of others."
Understanding dawned on Han Aeng's face, and she laughed softly. Long Dahai seemed to make it a habit of catering to her, always considerate of her feelings.
She could indulge him this time since he was so nice.
Clearing her throat to hide her growing amusement, she straightened up as if adopting a more formal posture would alleviate the slight awkwardness of the moment. "Allow me to introduce you first. This is my hus-ba-nd, Prince Long Dahai."
"Is the title necessary?" His eyes crinkled at the corners with warmth, reassuring her it was all good fun.
"Well, it's important to show everyone how esteemed my hus-band is." She continued with mock seriousness, her words stumbling less but still hesitant. "This is my husband, Seventh prince of Shangwei, Long Dahai."
She extended her hand, indicating it was his turn.
"This is my wife, Han Aeng," Long Dahai played along, his tone attempting to mirror her mock seriousness. "My honourable wang-fe?" Despite his efforts to match her lightheartedness, a hint of hesitation crept into his voice, betraying his discomfort in the situation.
She was the one who felt awkward being introduced, but why did he feel nervous instead?
Her lips twitched with amusement as she observed his attempt to match her tone, noting the discrepancy between his words and demeanour. "Your Highness appears perfectly natural," she commented, her tone mild yet teasing.
As they continued the lighthearted introductions, the titles became more fluid with each repetition.
Long Dahai leaned in slightly. "Benwang must say, you're improving with every introduction," he remarked, his tone laced with a silent acknowledgment of her progress.
With a grin, Han Aeng's gestures became lively and expressive. "Why, thank you. I must thank my tutor for his exceptional coaching."
"Benwang's efforts weren't in vain then. Benwang shall take credit where it's due."
The awkwardness that highlighted their interaction seemed to have vanished with the embarrassing introductions.
"This is nice. Chenqie admits she contemplated running away when they informed me of our impending marriage," Han Aeng confessed abruptly, her gaze softening as she looked at him. "But this... this is nice. Your Highness is nice."
"Admitting to my face that you wanted to escape our marriage? What if Benwang held that against Wangfei?" he teased, leaning forward slightly, his posture relaxed yet attentive. "What if I took offence?"
She nonchalantly shrugged her shoulders. "Chenqie shall consider it her fate or the result of bad judgment."
"Your judgment to trust me is... flattering." He paused, his eyes meeting hers with a warmth that belied his words.
"Well, considering my options, trusting you seems to be the better choice," she replied, trying to suppress her smile from breaking through. But a shared glance between them sent them both into laughter, filling the cozy room.
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