Although Emperor Hong agreed, he assigned a large group of palace experts to accompany us and ordered General Shen to ensure my safety.
It seemed that Emperor Hong was deliberately matchmaking me with General Shen. Before departure, he hinted that General Shen was unmarried, had excellent character and appearance, and would be an ideal companion for starting a family and traveling.
Was he trying to make up for An Jin’s absence? It was both amusing and frustrating. Jiang Yunqiao, noticing my helplessness, suggested I bring my little sister along.
After consideration, I realized there was some merit to it. Though my little sister and General Shen occasionally bickered, they had never fallen out and seemed to grow more familiar with each other. This could be the classic example of a love-hate relationship.
My little sister, lively and fond of traveling, was thrilled to go to Xiliang, and General Shen didn’t seem to object. Thus, the plan was set.
However, after just one day on the road, I regretted my decision. My little sister found reasons to argue with General Shen daily, insisting on exchanging sharp words, only stopping when he darkened and called her “unreasonable” before walking away.
This scenario became a daily occurrence, and I was growing visually fatigued.
I had a heart-to-heart talk with my little sister. When I asked if she had special feelings for General Shen, she reacted defensively, eyes wide.
“Me and him?! Big sister, you’re thinking too much! I clearly hate him, okay?”
I raised an eyebrow at her.
Feeling uncomfortable, she shrank her neck. “W-why are you looking at me like that…”
“Years ago, I also disliked my brother-in-law,” I recalled. “I bullied him, stealing his sugar cakes and toys.”
She shuddered, puffing out her cheeks. “That’s completely different.”
Ignoring her, I continued, “When you like someone, you fight for their attention. It might be naive, but isn’t it also sweet?”
She shouted, “Who said I like him?! Who would like a man who keeps turtles as pets?”
“Really don’t like him?”
“Of course not!” She was resolute. “He’s not even that good-looking, has no talent, and always makes cold remarks. What’s there to like?”
“So General Shen has many shortcomings?” I feigned realization. “So you have no interest in him?”
“Absolutely no interest!”
