I nodded. Her expression turned sly. “No wonder the Lord left later than usual today! Madam is impressive—when you make a move, you nearly make him miss morning court.”
I replied modestly, “Just average. I haven’t even tried my best.”
After dressing, Que’er reported on recent painting sales. The “Twilight Double Beauty” painting sold for a hundred taels to the son of the Ministry of Works’ Song, known for his broad tastes. He hosted a wine and painting gathering after purchasing the work, displaying it prominently. The pose and dress of An Jin sparked a wave of imitation.
Especially the ink drop I accidentally placed on his forehead started a trend of forehead moles in Yan Feng City. Young men began adopting this style, with a poem saying: “Verses under moonlight by willows pale, cannot match An Lang’s forehead mole.”
I felt uncomfortable thinking about men fantasizing over the painting and considered instructing Chen, the boss at Shai Yue Studio, to be more selective with commissions.
Que’er also brought a message from Chen about two new orders, requesting I visit soon to discuss details.
As Que’er finished speaking, it was near the end of the chen hour. I instructed her to go to Shai Yue Studio first and then prepared to head to Xuanwu Gate.
This was my first time waiting for An Jin after court since our marriage. Qi Kingdom’s morning court began early, with most officials arriving at the Taihe Hall on an empty stomach. Afterward, some bought snacks at roadside shops, while more refined ones returned home for breakfast before going to their offices.
An Jin never had breakfast at home, usually eating at small roadside shops. In the past year, aside from our wedding night, I hadn’t fulfilled any wife’s duties, which made me feel somewhat guilty. However, I realized An Jin hadn’t been attentive either, so I felt balanced.
Hearing the third beat of the diligence drum, I stepped back to the roadside. Blue-robed officials emerged orderly, discussing official business in various tones and accents.
Qi Kingdom required fourth-rank and higher officials to attend morning court, with robe colors indicating rank. I stood on tiptoe, spotting An Jin among the departing officials.
