My Fair Princess: Ertai's Bitter Regret

Xiao Yanzi was the young daughter of a general's household, but because she was born a concubine's child, she grew up on a country estate. She thought she would spend her whole life in that little corner of the world, but by a twist of fate, she saved the current emperor while he was out and won his favor. With a wave of his hand, the emperor bestowed upon her the title of Princess Huanzhu.

Er Tai, the second young master of the Imperial Academy's household, was refined and graceful, with a handsome, upright bearing. He was always gentle and courteous toward others, yet acted completely out of character and constantly clashed with Xiao Yanzi, the newest arrival at the palace.

Xiao Yanzi thought he was putting on airs.

Er Tai thought she was reckless.

Then, at a palace banquet, the eldest daughter of the general's household entered the palace to be selected as a consort. Er Tai's gaze fell on her legitimate elder sister. Xiao Yanzi stared at Er Tai, a flicker of "sadness" passing through her eyes, but he seemed to go out of his way to ignore it.

From then on, Xiao Yanzi avoided Er Tai. She no longer bickered with him and drove him mad with frustration.

Er Tai finally realized that things were heading in a direction he could no longer control.

PS: Xiao Yanzi is the legitimate daughter, but for certain reasons, she was raised as a concubine's child. You'll find out more later in the story!