Episode 12 recap: # Cui Xing Zhou and Lian Rui Lan's Engagement Breakup
In Episode 12, Liu Mian Tang, a meticulous woman, carefully prepares luggage for her husband, Cui Xing Zhou. She packs jewelry, clothing for all seasons, and everything is arranged perfectly. With tears in their eyes, they hold hands, reluctant to part. Liu Mian Tang gently encourages Cui Xing Zhou to focus on his studies, assuring him that she will manage everything at home until he returns.
Cui Xing Zhou is filled with mixed emotions. He worries about Liu Mian Tang being lonely at home and suggests she visit her family when she can. As the time to say goodbye approaches, they cling to each other, unwilling to let go.
At this moment, He Zhen happens to pass by Liu Mian Tang's house. Originally looking for a friend to talk to, she unexpectedly witnesses Liu Mian Tang bidding farewell to Cui Xing Zhou. He Zhen's heart sinks; she recognizes Cui Xing Zhou as the esteemed Prince of Huaiyang. Jealousy flares within her as she feels deceived by Liu Mian Tang.
Cui Xing Zhou returns to the royal residence, where preparations for his wedding are in full swing. However, he feels troubled because he is not marrying the woman he loves, but rather his cousin. Reluctantly, he goes along with the marriage, while those around him mistakenly assume he is pining for his fiancée, unaware of his true feelings.
Meanwhile, Shi Xue Ji runs into Lu Wen on the street. Noticing that all her purchases are for her family, Lu Wen feels a bit left out. He walks with her and realizes her interest in a pastry shop. Although Shi Xue Ji claims her strict upbringing prevents her from indulging in outside treats, Lu Wen discovers a secret sweet cake hidden in her belongings. He smiles and instructs his servants to send her the finest fabric as a gift, which boosts Shi Xue Ji's feelings for him.
Just as the royal family is busy preparing for the wedding, shocking news arrives: the Empress Dowager has decreed that Cui Xing Zhou be appointed as a General, ordering him to head to the frontlines immediately. The hidden dangers in this command are clear to everyone. The royal uncle bluntly asks Cui Xing Zhou if he will accept the order. Though unwilling, Cui Xing Zhou has no choice but to comply.
Lian Rui Lan hears the news and realizes the Empress Dowager means business. The risks of war are high, and many do not return. To protect Lian Rui Lan's future, her mother concocts a plan to feign illness, hoping to cancel the engagement. However, Cui Xing Zhou understands the situation all too well. He thinks about how long he might be gone and decides not to delay his cousin's prospects, so he writes a letter to break off the engagement.
In the merchant community, discussions abound about the recruitment, with many believing the chances of survival are slim. Liu Mian Tang is anxious, worried that Cui Xing Zhou's frail physique won't withstand the hardships. Seeing her distress, He Zhen offers no comfort and instead mocks her before leaving. Liu Mian Tang is taken aback by He Zhen's sudden change in demeanor.
Fortunately, a glimmer of hope appears when Cui Xing Zhou returns! Liu Mian Tang is overjoyed and eagerly pulls him in for conversation. When she learns he craves crab fried rice, she rushes to the kitchen without hesitation. Under the moonlight, they sit together at a table, eating and chatting. Liu Mian Tang expresses her longing and worries, while Cui Xing Zhou gently reassures her not to think too much. In that moment, all their fears and uncertainties dissolve into warmth and sweetness.
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