“We met briefly last time and never spoke, which I regretted. I’ve come with a request,” Qing Cheng walked over slowly and spoke softly.
“A request? Please sit. What can I help you with?” Lan Ling’er asked, still polite despite her surprise.
“It’s about Dongfang Yu!” Qing Cheng went straight to the point.
“Hmm!” Lan Ling’er readily agreed.
“Xi’er, close the main gate! It’s cold today. Tell everyone to rest and give them extra quilts. Put more charcoal in their rooms to keep them warm! I’ll handle the evening matters in my own room,” she said, supporting Qing Cheng as they walked towards the back hall.
“You’re so kind to them. I’m sure they’re very grateful to you!”
“Her kindness was touching her and melting her hard heart.
“No, I’m different from you. You emphasize the master-servant system, while I believe in equality. People have different concepts!” Having come from the 21st century, she could not accept a master-servant relationship. Equality was her principle.
“Perhaps! Ling’er, I…”
“Don’t say any more. Tonight, I’ll let you sleep in my bed, but you must leave tomorrow, or I’ll truly get angry!” She was selfish, desiring complete love, not a divided, incomplete version. She would rather endure momentary pain than suffer a lifetime.
Feeling exhausted, Lan Ling’er opened the door as Qing Cheng walked in, then closed it behind them. After a long day, her heart also needed rest.
“Stop! Who are you? Stop!” Xi’er’s startled cry came from the main hall, prompting Lan Ling’er to run out.
“Who are you? How dare you break into my residence?” she shouted angrily at two men in fine clothing.
They stood silently, then an elegant middle-aged woman emerged from behind them.
Her? The so-called empress? Why would she come here?
“Are you Ruo’er? It seems Yu’er treats you well, giving you such a magnificent mansion!”
She smiled, her dimples visible. Looking at Lan Ling’er above, her face was friendly, but her heart felt differently.
