In recent days, to avoid being alone with Shu Lan, Meng Qing had Yu Yi ride in the same carriage. At night, after checking into an inn, he used a hypnotic spray to make Shu Lan fall asleep.
On the carriage, Meng Qing felt a light vibration on his arm. He noticed this vibration was different from an ordinary message, and he exchanged a glance with Yu Yi. Both knew this meant their mission was complete.
Yu Yi said to Meng Qing, “Your Highness, we have been traveling day and night and are far from the capital. The Second Prince is likely busy with the coronation ceremony and has not noticed Your Highness and the Consort’s staged death. Your Highness and the Consort no longer need this maiden’s protection. I wish to return to my father.”
“Very well,” Meng Qing agreed to her departure and expressed gratitude: “This maiden’s help will be remembered for life by Zhan.”
Shu Lan was somewhat surprised. These days, she had vaguely felt that there was something not simple between Luo Zhan and Yi Yao, whether in their conversations or their exchanged glances. She could clearly sense a subtle understanding between them. Recalling the past, Luo Zhan had already seen Yi Yao’s true appearance when feigning serious injury, and he had not seemed surprised then. Perhaps they had feelings for each other long ago.
Although jealous, she decided to accept Yi Yao. After all, their escape from the capital was entirely due to Yi Yao’s help. Living with Yi Yao in Luo Zhan’s residence, she had even grown to like Yi Yao’s personality. She had thought Yi Yao would always accompany Luo Zhan and might become a concubine, but unexpectedly, Yi Yao proposed to leave, and Luo Zhan easily agreed.
At noon, they stopped in a small county town, and Yu Yi bid them farewell.
Shu Lan asked in surprise, “Miss Yi, why are you leaving so quickly? At least wait and have a meal together before departing.”
Yu Yi smiled and shook her head, “Parting is inevitable. Why dwell on one meal? Master and Madam Shi, Yao takes her leave.” With that, she left alone.
Meng Qing and Shu Lan entered an inn, sat down, and ordered food.
