Seeing this, Shen Jintang did not press his advantage or continue to coerce him.

She knew that pressing further at this point would only embarrass the teacher more and would not help the situation.

So she offered a way out, saying, "Sir, I know well the principle that 'in the path of learning, strict teachers are the most difficult. Only when teachers are strict can the way be respected, and only when the way is respected can the people know to respect learning.' Everything you have done is for the growth of us students, and I understand that in my heart."

She paused, then continued, "However, His Highness is not particularly interested in studying to begin with. If I were to belittle him excessively, it might make him even more averse to learning. Therefore, I dared to speak out against you, and I beg your forgiveness."

Shen Jintang's words showed both respect for the Master and protection of Gu Zhixing, making them very appropriate.

She took the initiative to admit her mistake, her attitude was sincere, and her words were impeccable, making it impossible for anyone to be angry.

After hearing Shen Jintang's words, the Master's anger gradually dissipated.

Knowing he was in the wrong, he naturally took the opportunity to back down, saying, "Young Master Gu, I apologize for my harsh words just now."

Gu Zhixing was stunned for a moment; he had never imagined that he would get such an outcome.

Previously, no one believed him, and they just insulted him without ever apologizing.

But this time...

A warm feeling welled up in his heart, and he felt a tenderness in his chest, so much so that he forgot what to say for a moment.

"Your Highness," Shen Jintang called out softly, reminding Gu Zhixing.

Gu Zhixing immediately snapped out of his daze and said with a smile, "No, it's alright. Sir is doing this for my own good, I understand."

After this farce, the class went by very quickly.

After class, Gu Zhixing approached Shen Jintang with bright eyes and asked, "Shen Jintang, you played so beautifully just now. I never knew you could play the piano so well."

Shen Jintang smiled and said, "As long as you are willing to learn, you can play very well too."

Gu Zhixing scratched his head, smiled somewhat embarrassedly, and said, "Really?"

Before Shen Jintang could answer, Gu Yanqing walked over slowly.

"Miss Shen's musical skills are even better than I imagined. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to witness them today."

He wore a perfectly timed smile.

Shen Jintang lowered his head slightly and said humbly, "Your Highness is too kind. It's just some rudimentary skill, just a casual twirl. I don't deserve such praise from Your Highness."

Gu Yanqing nodded slightly, his eyes filled with inquiry, and said, "There are some things about the art of playing the zither that I don't quite understand. I hope Miss Shen will be kind enough to enlighten me and clear up my doubts."

"Your Highness, what are you saying? It is my honor to answer your questions. I will answer them to the best of my ability." Shen Jintang raised his head with a polite smile on his face.

As Gu Zhixing watched Shen Jintang and Gu Yanqing chatting and laughing, a complex emotion welled up in his heart.

He couldn't understand a word of their profound insights into musical techniques.

What upset him even more was that today Shen Jintang spoke eloquently, quoting classical texts, and could leave even the Master speechless with just a few simple words.

And then there was her stunning performance in the music room, her flowing and skillful piano playing drawing everyone's attention.

All signs indicate that Shen Jintang is indeed very capable and outstanding.

As for him, he was just a naughty young master who, apart from having some money and being better looking than others, was practically good for nothing.

Temperament, short temper, not as calm and composed as Shen Jintang.

Scholarship, scholarship is worrisome, it's better to be like Shen Jintang who integrates knowledge and understanding.

He seems to know nothing!

But Shen Jintang was so outstanding that he couldn't help but feel a little inferior.

He suddenly felt like he was drifting further and further away from her.

This feeling lingered in his mind, making him somewhat depressed.

"Your Highness, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?" Shen Jintang keenly noticed his change in mood and turned to look at him.

Gu Zhixing shook his head and said, "No, it's nothing, I'm just a little tired."

tired?

Did I learn too much today?

But it was much more tiring than this when I forced him to study before!

But Gu Zhixing was tired, so he could only rest first.

"Shall we go back to the manor to rest first?" Shen Jintang asked.

Gu Zhixing nodded without speaking, but there was a hint of melancholy in his eyes.

"Then I'll trouble Your Highness the Third Prince to ask for leave for His Highness the Crown Prince." Shen Jintang looked at Gu Yanqing.

Gu Yanqing nodded, which was considered an agreement.

So, Shen Jintang and Gu Zhixing walked towards the carriage.

Gu Zhixing was still very frustrated. Why was Gu Yanqing able to chat with Shen Jintang while he couldn't get a word in edgewise?

Is he stupid?

Is he stupid?

No!

He needed to let Shen Jintang know that he could also discuss poetry and songs with her, and play music and paint together.

He's no less capable than anyone else!

With that thought in mind, the two got into the carriage.

With two people squeezed into the cramped carriage, Gu Zhixing suddenly felt his cheeks getting hot.

I never realized this carriage was so small.

Gu Zhixing's gaze was unfocused, and he didn't even dare to look at Shen Jintang.

Night fell, and the stars twinkled in the sky.

The evening breeze blew open the curtains, caressed one's cheeks, and took away a trace of the heat.

The carriage slowly made its way back to the Princess's residence along the quiet streets, the atmosphere inside the carriage subtle and somewhat ambiguous.

Although he said he dared not look, Gu Zhixing couldn't help but secretly glance at Shen Jintang.

Today she wore a light blue dress, her hair fell smoothly over her shoulders, and her face looked even more gentle and charming in the dim moonlight.

Shen Jintang's eyebrows were curved, like two delicate willow leaves, gently adorning her pretty face.

Her eyes were classic peach blossom eyes, their gentle movement seemingly holding a pool of autumn water, shimmering with affection. Her delicate nose, like a finely carved piece of jade, was perfectly set in her face, while her slightly parted lips were like a budding flower, exquisitely beautiful.

Her skin was as white as snow, so delicate it seemed you could squeeze water out of it. The fine downy hairs on her cheeks were clearly visible in the hazy moonlight, adding to her charm and liveliness.

How come he didn't notice how beautiful Shen Jintang was before?

Gu Zhixing stared at Shen Jintang with a slightly fixed gaze.

Shen Jintang seemed to notice Gu Zhixing's gaze, and turned her head slightly, just in time to meet his eyes.

"Your Highness?" Shen Jintang frowned. Why was Gu Zhixing acting so strangely today?

Gu Zhixing's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly looked away, his ears turning red.

"N-nothing..." Gu Zhixing stammered, afraid that Shen Jintang would notice something.

Shen Jintang frowned even more deeply; she hadn't even asked what it was yet.