Xiao Chengjing's injuries have largely healed. Although he cannot engage in strenuous activity, long-distance travel is no longer a problem. The evidence chain in the Jiangnan salt tax case has initially identified key figures and accounting books, but the true mastermind and clues about the palace banquet of that year still need to be investigated further upon returning to the capital, especially the murky waters within the palace. The emperor's edict also urges him to return to the capital as soon as he recovers.

On the morning of their parting, just as dawn was breaking, Shen Yuewei insisted on getting up to see him off to the gate of the courtyard. She was wearing a loose, plain-colored dress, her belly high and protruding, indicating she was nearly full-term, and her movements were clumsy and cautious, typical of late pregnancy.

Xiao Chengjing, dressed in a black close-fitting outfit with a dark cloak over it, concealing his injuries and regaining his usual cold and dignified demeanor, gazed intently at Shen Yuewei. His eyes swept over her obviously tired yet determined face, finally settling on her pregnant belly, his gaze churning with complex and indescribable emotions—reluctance, worry, and the resolute determination to leave.

"I..." he began, his voice low, "must return to the capital."

Shen Yuewei paused, then looked up. After spending so much time together, his sudden announcement of his departure filled her with a strong sense of reluctance and... unease. She picked up a small garment as if to conceal her feelings: "Your Highness's injuries are still healing; please be careful on your journey."

"Hmm." Xiao Chengjing sat down beside her, his gaze falling on the soft little clothes, his eyes softening unconsciously. "I have made the arrangements. The guards here will be doubled. Manager Wang is a reliable person. Manage the shop business within your means. Everything is for your and the child's sake." He paused, his tone becoming unusually solemn. "The situation in the capital is complicated. I fear there will be trouble when I return. While you are here, no matter what news you hear, you must remain calm and trust me."

Shen Yuewei understood the deeper meaning in his words. His investigation into the past palace banquet would inevitably touch a nerve with some people, and the storm in the capital would only be more intense than in Jiangnan. She met his deep and firm gaze, and the unease in her heart was strangely soothed: "I understand. Your Highness... please be careful as well."

Xiao Chengjing gazed deeply at her, at her radiant face made even more glowing by her pregnancy, at the clear concern in her eyes, and a corner of his heart was filled with warmth. He reached out, not to hold her hand, but to gently place it on her swollen belly, feeling the tranquility of the little life within.

"I will return when he (or she) is born." His deep voice carried the power of a promise.

Shen Yuewei's heart skipped a beat. She looked up into his deep eyes, where she could see the solemnity she understood. "Yes, the child and I... are waiting for Your Highness," she replied softly, making a promise concerning the future.

Xiao Chengjing gazed at her intently, as if trying to etch her image into his heart. Finally, he released her, deftly mounted his horse, the movement aggravating his wound, causing him to furrow his brow almost imperceptibly, but he straightened his back.

"Take care!" He uttered those two final words, then spurred his horse forward, leading a squad of elite guards, and galloped away into the rising sun.

Shen Yuewei stood at the courtyard gate until the troop of people completely disappeared at the end of the official road before slowly withdrawing her gaze. The morning breeze carried a chill, stirring her skirt. In her palm, she could still feel the warmth of his hand and the weighty promise he had made.

"Miss, let's go back inside. Be careful not to catch a cold." Chun Tao stepped forward to help her.

Shen Yuewei stroked her belly, feeling the steady movements of the little one inside. She took a deep breath, turned, and walked into the courtyard. Though the parting was bittersweet, her heart felt inexplicably at peace. She knew he wasn't abandoning them, but rather clearing the thorns from their path for their sake.