“So what do you plan to do now?” I began to see her as my future sister-in-law. “Are you still angry with my brother? It was my bad idea that he took you to the Chu Women’s Hall…”
Her expression softened. “I know he’s not that kind of person. Even if I’m angry, it’s because he keeps everything inside.”
“He still thinks you’re a man!” I felt delighted.
“I can see he’s already falling for you, though he doesn’t realize it himself. His slow nature needs some polishing.”
She looked at me deeply. “Thank you, A Yao. I was worried that my disguise in the Hanlin Academy might cause misunderstandings…”
“Don’t worry. My family is open-minded. You’ll understand later.” As long as my brother wasn’t in love with a man, our parents would wholeheartedly approve, especially of such a loyal and righteous girl.
Xue Miaoyin laughed, revealing two charming dimples. The previous cold demeanor melted away with this smile, making me like her immediately.
We chatted for a while longer, agreeing to keep in touch and share information, becoming allies in conquering my brother’s heart.
Suddenly, the law of nemesis took effect as Princess Seven, Xia Zhiqian, walked into the tea house.
Xia Zhiqian looked haggard, her eyes red as if she had been crying. Besides her maids, there was a girl in green with a cloud-like hairstyle, elegant and beautiful. Xia Zhiqian whispered to her, looking like close friends.
This girl was Su Hui, someone I had painted before, captured in my “Twilight Beauties” painting.
Unexpectedly, while Xia Zhiqian hated me to the core, she paradoxically viewed Su Hui, her romantic rival, as a good friend.
Xue Miaoyin noticed my strange expression and softly exclaimed, “Princess Seven?”
Xia Zhiqian apparently noticed our gaze and looked towards our corner. I lowered my head, covering my face with my sleeve while pretending to drink tea, hoping she wouldn’t recognize me. Soon, Xia Zhiqian’s voice sounded near us.
“Miss Xue? Why are you dressed like this?”
“No matter,” she laughed carelessly. “She can’t trouble me. Besides, she’ll be married to Xiliang soon, so what is there to fear?”
