Chapter 1196: Chapter 1196: It’s Okay, You’re My Brother!
Bai Qiyang truly had no idea why he wanted to seek out Bai Zhi’er.
The moment he discovered Mu Xi’s true nature, a deep sense of guilt surged within him, compelling him to come over.
However, when he finally arrived at Ruizhu Palace, he found himself at a loss for words.
Previously, his blind trust in outsiders and the attitude he showed towards Bai Zhi’er made Bai Qiyang feel guilty and regretful.
Seeing Bai Xingye with wine in hand, it was clear they were ready for a good celebration.
Considering this, Bai Qiyang, who hadn’t been home for many years and didn’t share deep emotional ties with his brothers and sister, felt there was no need for him to stay and dampen their spirits.
He rubbed the back of his head, awkwardly saying, "Oh, I... I just came to ask on behalf of Mother when Sister is going to Rui’s Mansion for a meal."
"Last time, she hosted a banquet at the palace to welcome me, and I wanted to return the favour. But I suddenly remembered I have other things to attend to. I’ll ask again next time."
With that said, he planned to make a quick exit.
Yet at that very moment, Bai Zhi’er’s lively voice called from behind—
"Second Brother!"
Bai Qiyang halted his steps and turned around, seeing Bai Zhi’er and a group of brothers noticing his arrival, walking out from the hall.
The girl lifted her skirt, and amidst the swirling snowflakes, her eyes were bright and clear: "Why have you come! I just asked Big Brother if we should invite you."
The Eldest Heir Bai Xuanmo sneered coldly: "He’s hardly free. Second Brother has to be with Mu Xi, who is hosting a banquet today, isn’t she?"
Bai Zhi’er smiled in silence.
Bai Qiyang appeared slightly embarrassed: "Yes, but her banquet has ended."
Bai Zhi’er then said: "That’s perfect, Second Brother, stay. I was just thinking of playing Drinking Game and Discussing Poetry."
The Fifth Heir Bai Fengqing stepped forward and hooked his arm around Bai Qiyang’s neck: "Come on, Second Brother, since you’re here, it’s a must to join for a drink!"
The Fourth Son, Bai Daoyan, adorned in gold and jewels, smiled like a kind-hearted god of wealth.
"It’s true. Since Second Brother returned, we haven’t had a proper gathering."
"However, I still feel that just drinking is not much fun. If we compete with gold, it would be more enjoyable. I’ll provide the stakes for Sister, and you all chip in money."
The Third Young Master Bai Yaoyu frowned slightly upwards: "Don’t even think about it! Fourth Brother, if we played with silver, could we even compete with you?"
The Fourth Son chuckled lightly.
Bai Qiyang looked at them in a daze, with brothers and sister standing under the warmth of the eaves, waving at him.
The Fifth Heir beside him still laughed and said: "Second Brother, can you handle your liquor? Don’t let the youngest drink you under the table in a while!"
The Sixth Prince twisted his sleeve, eyes cold: "We agreed, whoever drinks the most can accompany Sister to feed the pandas tomorrow!"
Bai Qiyang felt the emotions and eagerness in his heart surge and swell.
He nodded firmly: "I can drink!"
With that, he draped his arms over his brothers’ shoulders, laughing as he stepped into the hall.
In the end, it was unexpected—Bai Qiyang’s claim that he could drink was indeed not just boasting.
Several princely heirs together drank a vat of strong liquor over half a person’s height, yet only Bai Qiyang remained sober.
Not only was he not drunk, but after all his brothers were intoxicated, he walked up to Bai Zhi’er.
"Sister... I..." Bai Qiyang’s cheeks flushed with the redness of alcohol, but his gaze was very clear: "I’m sorry."
Bai Zhi’er was taken aback but didn’t ask for reasons, smiling sweetly: "It’s okay, you’re my brother, after all!"
At that moment, Bai Qiyang was sure Bai Zhi’er knew everything but never emphasized the grievances she suffered before.
She simply forgave all he had done because she considered him her brother.
