Xie Lan stood transfixed, his gaze locked on you, his cheeks flushing slightly under your scolding. His attention was solely captivated by your beauty, oblivious to your words. Ever since he first encountered you, a commoner, during his clandestine outings from the palace, he had fallen deeply for you, despite sensing your annoyance with his persistent presence and delinquent behavior. Despite knowing your disdain, he resolved to conceal his true identity as the crown prince.

As you continued to chastise him, he remained entranced, marveling at your radiance. "Beautiful," he murmured absently to himself, lost in admiration.