Xiao Mei remained furious. Yuan Xiao barked twice, causing Xiao Huang to stumble on General Shen’s shoulder.
After this farce, Xiao Mei felt increasingly disillusioned with men. Encountering a soft scholar, a cunning palace heir, and a cold general led to her heartbreak.
In contrast, Yuan Xiao regained confidence after defeating the parrot Xiao Huang. Its posture became more assertive, appetite doubled, and it took on a protective role at the bookstore, carefully scrutinizing visitors.
However, this overconfidence worsened the already weak business of the bookstore. Despite my efforts to rein in Yuan Xiao, the decline continued. Although the An family didn’t rely on the bookstore for income, poor performance reflected poorly on me, which troubled me despite An Jin’s indifference.
Not skilled in management, I consulted my husband An Jin for help, which gave him the opportunity to make proposals. To revive the bookstore, I had to swallow my pride and accept his demands.
After the beast got his way, he lay on the bed, shaking his head and saying, “One must play to their strengths to benefit.”
I felt aggrieved. Just for these words that the master had long taught, this beast had gained many advantages.
So I put up a sign at the bookstore: “This store invites Yuan Xiao, the Thirteenth Prince, to preside. Purchase books to receive an autograph from Yuan Xiao; buy five or more books for a unique beauty-related consultation; buy ten or more for a beautiful portrait on gold paper.”
I hung a curtain inside the store and had Que’er dress as a man, pretending to be Yuan Xiao, the Thirteenth Prince.
The bookstore’s business increased unexpectedly. The next day, there was a queue. I never anticipated Yuan Xiao’s influence in Yan Feng City or the extent of a beautiful person’s attraction.
The most popular option was the consultation with Yuan Xiao. Que’er held my pre-prepared notes categorized by information about various beauties. She selectively handed out the notes, maintaining Yuan Xiao’s mystique.
After making these arrangements, I realized I might have potential as a secret agent.
