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Based on Su Ning’s description of the young man, the governor also harbored suspicions that he might be the Third Prince. However, the governor maintained his composure and pretended to inquire of Su Bin, “Su Bin, do you believe this young man to be the Third Prince?”

Feigning ignorance, Su Bin responded, “I’ve never had the chance to see the

Third Prince, so I wouldn’t dare to speculate.”

Perhaps due to Su Bin’s effective disguise, the governor opted not to pursue the matter any further.

Following this, the governor shifted the conversation and inquired about Su Ning’s marital status. It turned out he was interested in arranging a marriage between his youngest son and Su Ning.

While Su Bin didn’t outright decline, he made his position clear, stating, “I’ve already promised my sister that I won’t agree to any engagement for her until she’s of age.”

“If fate allows it in six or seven years, then it won’t be too late.”

This was a tactful way of turning down the proposal.

Su Bin believed that their ages weren’t suitable for such an arrangement. The governor’s youngest son was approximately ten years old, while Su Ning was nine, making them nearly the same age.

Qin Zhenzhen concurred, remarking, “Indeed, the age gap is quite significant.”

In the modern era, age differences between couples didn’t matter much, and women could even be older than men. However, ancient times followed different customs. Women typically married around the age of 14 or 15, while being considered “old” for marriage by the time they reached 16 or 17. On the other hand, men between the ages of 16 and 17 were still considered suitable candidates for marriage.

Qin Zhenzhen’s reluctance to endorse arranged marriages played a significant role in her stance, alongside Su Ning’s youth.

Su Bin’s unexpected awareness caught Qin Zhenzhen off guard.

“You’re also opposed to the marriage proposal with the governor?” she inquired, seeking clarity on the matter.

Su Bin openly shared his perspective with Qin Zhenzhen, explaining patiently, “Have you pondered why the Third Prince was being pursued and resorted to climbing over the wall into the governor’s backyard, yet his master didn’t reveal their identities and instead swiftly removed him from the scene?”

Understanding dawned upon Qin Zhenzhen. “Are you suggesting that the governor is aligned with His Highness the Crown Prince?”

Su Bin affirmed her suspicion, stating, “I believe so. The governor’s second brother serves as the Assistant Minister, and the Assistant Minister’s second daughter is the Crown Prince’s concubine.”

“The Third Prince and his master are being pursued, and they likely attribute it to the Crown Prince’s actions, hence their vigilance against the Crown Prince’s associates.”

“While the Third Prince might have scrambled over the wall in haste, possibly unaware that it was the governor’s residence, his master should have recognized it.”

“Despite the benign intentions of Sixth Sister and the two guards in treating the Third Prince’s injuries, he probably still couldn’t afford to take chances.”

Qin Zhenzhen grasped the situation, inquiring, “Is this one of the reasons why you oppose marriage to the governor?”

Su Bin did not deny it. “You could say that.”

“The Crown Prince isn’t a virtuous individual. I’d rather not become entangled with his associates.”

“Even though the governor may not necessarily align with the Crown Prince, the ties between them cast doubt. It’s safer to avoid involvement.

Qin Zhenzhen honed in on the crux of the matter, remarking, “So, if you don’t want to associate with his associates, do you believe His Highness won’t ascend to the throne?”

Su Bin responded thoughtfully, “It appears that the Crown Prince’s position is secure for now, but that may not be the case in five or six years.”

Qin Zhenzhen was quite surprised. “You mean that when the Third Prince grows up, he will definitely compete with him?”

Was a villain so forward-thinking?

Now, he could determine that the Third Prince was a strong opponent of the Crown Prince?