The Phoenix Man Breaks Down, While the Prince Fights to Claim Me

(Clearheaded noblewoman × possessive prince who fights to claim her × humiliated common-born top scholar)

Jiang Chan is the only daughter of the Chancellor. From the day she was born, her parents never intended to marry her off. They only wanted to find a live-in son-in-law.

Shi Yulou was born into a poor family and had received the Chancellor's support for years. He volunteered to marry into the family.

As the wedding approached, he placed first in the palace examination and became the newly appointed top scholar.

Shi's mother boasted, “My son is the top scholar and a favorite of the Crown Prince. Even if he doesn't marry into the Chancellor's family, all the fine young women in the capital will be vying for him!”

Shi Yulou put on a show of devotion. “For your sake, I'm willing to marry into your family and endure everyone's scorn. My mother went through so much to raise me. We can never do too much to honor her!”

Jiang Chan thought of all the treasures, jade ornaments, antiques, paintings, fine silks, and rare teas Shi's mother had been carting away from the Chancellor's residence over the years, bit by bit. Her heart ached.

“Then the top scholar should find another match.”

Shi's mother panicked. Shi Yulou grew desperate. Jiang Chan felt relieved.

Prince Qi, Xiao Ke, had grown up starved of affection. He went to every length to prove that Jiang Chan had even the slightest genuine feeling for him.

Shi Yulou: “We were once engaged. We have a deep history together.”

Xiao Ke: “It was only an arrangement made by your parents. She has no lingering attachment to you.”

Shi Yulou: “For her, I don't fear the gossip. I'm willing to marry into her family.”

Xiao Ke: “You covet power and are eager to climb the social ladder. You certainly know how to dress it up in noble words.”

Shi Yulou finally lost his composure. “I have the Crown Prince's complete trust. One day, I'll stand above everyone!”

Xiao Ke thought for a moment. “In that case, I suppose the Crown Prince's seat could go to someone else.”