Xiao Lian cursed internally, becoming more displeased. Her smile wasn’t as beautiful as another woman’s he remembered, and it made him think of her again. Was she getting married, and would he never see her again? He shook his head to avoid thinking further. Seeing Jing Mo’s smile and his hands tangled in silk threads made him feel ashamed for not knowing how to do men’s work. He feared that his brother was right—his lack of skills would make a wife despise him.
Noticing his troubled expression, Jing Mo found it amusing, “I know a bit about men’s work. Perhaps I can help you.”
“Who wants your help?” Xiao Lian glared at her, feeling mocked again.
Jing Mo wasn’t annoyed. She took the embroidered handkerchief from Xiao Lian and quickly untangled the silk threads before starting to work.
Xiao Lian watched her skillful hands, surprised by her expertise. She was more skilled than many men, comparable to his brother. A strange feeling arose in Xiao Lian’s heart; if she became his wife, she could handle all the needlework. He wouldn’t have to deal with these tasks in the future. Jing Mo’s capabilities diminished his hostility toward her.
His face turned slightly red, feeling shy, and he asked awkwardly, “You’re a woman. How do you know how to do this?” He was astonished that she could be more skilled than even women he had known.
Jing Mo responded with a casual acknowledgment, not paying attention to Xiao Lian’s unusual behavior.
Even if he had noticed, he would not have thought that a young boy would have any thoughts, let alone understand Xiao Lian’s intricate intentions of manipulation.
Time passed, and when Su Xi returned, he saw another woman in the courtyard alongside Xiao Lian. His heart tightened as he examined Xiao Lian’s clothing and body. Only after confirming that he was fine did he breathe a sigh of relief.
Returning to school, the network will be available the day after tomorrow due to a classmate’s connection. Comments will be replied to together after I return. Going back to school means updates will be more stable, with at least one daily update. The same goes for “Holding Hands,” with more updates when there’s extra time.
Conflict
