Master Xu looked away, realizing he could only let his daughter grow up. Qiu’er held her mother’s hand; when Madam Xu met her husband’s gaze, she understood that Qiu’er’s temperament would not survive in the palace. She needed to learn independence and, releasing her hand, spoke gently, “Qiu’er, you’re 16 now. When I was 16, you were already born.” She called for Liu, her trusted old nursemaid, hoping she could help Qiu’er navigate palace life. As the wedding approached, Qiu’er’s heart filled with anxiety.
Xiaoju acted as an intelligence gatherer, constantly relaying information to Xu Qiu’er. She tried every way to meet the crown prince, but either due to bad luck or timing, she only ever saw his back. Qiu’er’s face reflected her sorrow, which Madam Xu recognized but felt powerless to change.
Feeling overwhelmed, Qiu’er took her third sister’s hand and shared her frustrations, believing they were connected by blood. Little did she know that to others, she was seen as an eyesore, a thorn in someone’s side.
“Sister, what should I do?” Xu Qiu’er began to cry softly.
Xu Qing’er pretended to wipe away tears while hugging her sister. “Little sister, I’ve seen the crown prince…”
Xu Qiu’er looked up, curious about the crown prince.
Xu Qing’er thought bitterly, If not for you, I would have been the crown prince’s wife. But she smiled and added, “Of course, sister will keep your matters in mind. Your future husband…”
She deliberately teased Xu Qiu’er, who felt excited at the mention of the crown prince.
Xu Qing’er chuckled inwardly. Xu Qiu’er, you must fall in love with the crown prince. I will reclaim everything you owe me.
“The crown prince is handsome and gentle. Sister congratulates you on obtaining such a husband—a true blessing from a previous life,” Xu Qing’er remarked, knowing that once Xu Qiu’er enjoyed her good fortune, she would also experience the suffering Xu Qing’er had endured.
Xu Qiu’er felt reassured by her sister’s words. If her sister said he was good, then it must be true.
When Xiaoju found them sitting on a stone chair, she rolled her eyes internally and bowed. “Xiaoju pays respects to Third Miss.”
