That inexplicable melancholy had not been seen since the day he learned the family head had someone outside. However, the person on the couch heard the door open and naturally looked up, giving him a faint smile, speaking in his unique upward-inflected tone: “Qi’er, have you noticed that I haven’t been as sleepy lately?”
Qi’er looked at him, biting his lip and nodding. Xu Wan’zhi smiled again: “So why aren’t you happy? I know you’re most afraid of me oversleeping.”
“Master, you—” What are you truly sad about?
He simply said: “Nothing.”
Sighing at his sensitive thoughts, Xu Wan’zhi shook out his clothes, got off the couch, put on his shoes, and habitually drank some water. Qi’er realized he had already poured himself a cup and drank it down.
Perhaps because he no longer takes the initiative to serve him, that inexplicable unease always inadvertently surfaces. Facing him, Qi’er unconsciously feels somewhat awkward, and whenever he wants to speak, he senses that his master’s current state of mind is beyond his ability to console.
After drinking three cups, the room remained silent. Xu Wan’zhi, not wanting to pressure him, casually said: “Were you embroidering something just now? Can you show me?”
“Okay,” Qi’er couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief, quickly showing him the day’s completed work.
Xu Wan’zhi stroked the handkerchief, repeatedly praising how lifelike and lively the little birds were, especially remarkable coming from a boy’s hands.
“You’ve embroidered this beautifully!”
“Actually, master’s skills are truly the best!” Blushing, Qi’er spoke with considerable pride.
The imposter Miss Xu immediately fell silent.
Qi’er, unaware, continued: “Do you remember back then, how many young gentlemen in Wan City would use your embroidery as a model?”
“Hmm?”
“Young master, I—” Realizing he might have misspoken, and fearing touching on sensitive thoughts, Qi’er immediately stopped, carefully observing his expression, detecting no hint of displeasure.
Qi’er, this child, was so different from her in thoughts, words, and actions that she could only try her best within her capabilities to consider his sensitive feelings.
Recently, gradually becoming accustomed to his tone, Qi’er naturally understood that the master was dismissing her. She lowered her head and obediently withdrew.
