Chapter 41

The kitten naturally couldn’t say anything; it moved slightly and slept even more soundly in the fragrant and soft embrace.

“Oh, this is a kitten. Let me see. It’s a little golden blanket on a silver bed.” Mama Li was a bit surprised when she saw it. After examining it, she smiled and said, looking very fond of it, “Did Young Master Yuan send it?”

“Golden blanket on a silver bed?” Lu Minghua ignored the latter part of the sentence, took a step towards the bedroom, and asked curiously.

“This kind of yellow back and white belly is called a golden blanket on a silver bed, and it’s a good omen.” Mama Li explained with a smile.

“So that’s how it is.” Lu Minghua suddenly realized, looking at the little creature in her arms. Seeing it lying obediently in her embrace, she couldn’t help but smile.

“By the way, Mama, what do such small creatures eat? Should we make a little nest for it? Hmm, let it sleep in my room.” She said in a series of questions.

“This kitten is easy to take care of. At this size, it can already eat some meat. But it can’t sleep in your room; kittens are noisy and might disturb your sleep.”

“It’s okay.” Lu Minghua liked these little creatures very much. She couldn’t keep them before, but now that she finally could, she was happy and just wanted to spoil them.

“No, no,”

“Mama,” Lu Minghua looked at Mama Li softly.

Mama Li had no choice but to compromise, saying, “It can only sleep in the outer room.” It would be fine to let the maids watch over it.

“Okay, Mama, get some needles and cloth, and I’ll make a little nest for it.” Lu Minghua said happily.

“No need for cloth, you can use your old clothes, it will help it get familiar and not be afraid.”

“Okay, I’ll listen to Mama.” Lu Minghua knew little about raising cats, so she followed Mama Li’s instructions.

Mama Li then found some of Lu Minghua’s old clothes, and the two of them busied themselves for a while, finally making a little nest.

Outside, a maid brought in some cooked, shredded meat, intending to feed it herself, but Lu Minghua called her away.

“I’ll do it. I’ll feed it.” She held the small bowl, took a spoonful, and handed it over.

The kitten had already climbed up, following the smell of meat. It came over and sniffed lightly, cautiously tasted a bite, and then quickly started eating.

Lu Minghua wanted to feed it herself, but the little creature didn’t give her a chance, already burying its head in the bowl.

She let go and sat aside, watching happily. Several maids also gathered around, finding it very novel. After finishing its meal, the little creature walked around the room. Mama Li said it was getting familiar with the place. However, it was still young, and after a round, it obediently returned to Lu Minghua’s side, wanting to lie in her arms.

Lu Minghua wanted it to try the new little nest, so she gently placed it inside. The little creature rolled over several times and climbed out again, still wanting to burrow into Lu Minghua’s arms.

Lu Minghua hesitated, wondering if the nest was uncomfortable, and ended up holding it again.

“Miss, you shouldn’t always indulge it. Otherwise, when you need to attend to important matters, having it in your arms won’t be acceptable.”

The little creature meowed softly a few times, lying obediently in Lu Minghua’s arms.

“Mama, it’s okay. When the time comes, I won’t hold it.” Stroking the soft little creature in her arms, Lu Minghua replied.

Mama Li shook her head helplessly. Little creatures like kittens are the most likely to take advantage. Seeing her young mistress not listening to advice, she knew there would be trouble in the future.

“Mama, what do you think we should name it?” Lu Minghua asked expectantly.

“Miss, you can decide.” Seeing her young mistress like this, Mama Li thought it was good. After all, her young mistress didn’t have much to do, and having a little creature to pass the time with wasn’t bad.

“Then let’s call it Ping An.” Lu Minghua thought for a moment and smiled softly. She stroked Ping An’s fur. She didn’t need this little creature to be very smart or obedient, just safe and sound.

At night, it was time to sleep.

Lu Minghua wanted to sleep with the little creature, but she was restless in her sleep and feared she might crush it. Finally, she listened to Mama Li’s advice and placed it in the little nest.

Ping An clearly didn’t like the little nest, climbing up and meowing softly at Lu Minghua, following her around. After a few steps, it started pouncing on the hem of Lu Minghua’s skirt.

Lu Minghua found it amusing and moved her steps to dodge. The kitten followed and pounced, and she moved again. In an instant, her skirt spread out like a flower, and the little yellow ball pounced left and right, trying to catch it but failing.

Her smile grew wider, and when Lu Minghua realized it, she was surprised to find herself laughing out loud. The kitten played for a while, then seemed tired and lying down.

Lu Minghua stood still, just about to bend down to pick it up when she saw Ping An leap and finally hook onto the hem of her skirt.

“Naughty.” Lu Minghua gently tapped its little head and placed it in the nest.

Ping An rolled over, seemingly exhausted, and didn’t follow Lu Minghua anymore.

Lu Minghua had a good night’s dream. In the morning, she was awakened by the morning light falling into the room. As she got up and was about to step into her embroidered shoes, she found a little yellow ball.

Ping An was sleeping on the footrest in front of her bed. Her gaze paused, and she looked quietly, her heart seemingly softening.

After getting up and washing happily, she looked up to see the high sky and rolling forest outside. Lu Minghua stood at the door, hesitated for a while, and eventually didn’t go out.

“Your Highness, Miss Lu didn’t go out.” Zhao Shiyi watched for a while, and when the sound of the pipa from next door started, he hurried back to report.

Yan Yuanhua glanced at Zhao Shiyi. He had known when Zhao Shiyi didn’t return earlier. The sound of the pipa from next door was continuous, clear, and melodious. He could immediately tell that Master Zhan played it. Although it was the same sound, Lu Minghua’s playing was always gentler. He turned his hand and took out a flute.

When Zhan Yuan’s pipa sound ended and Lu Minghua’s pipa sound started, he leisurely blew the first note.

The pipa sound paused.

Lu Minghua’s fingers paused on the strings, staring blankly at the next room.

“Don’t stop. You two are just right for a duet.” Zhan Yuan was also momentarily surprised, then smiled and said.

It was perfect timing, as Lu Minghua had been working behind closed doors recently. Now, playing a duet with someone would surely bring some improvement. The flute’s sound was clear and melodious, with a hint of lingering affection in its mournful tones.

Lu Minghua’s fingers hesitated to fall, and it was only when Zhan Yuan looked at her in confusion that she lightly plucked the strings.

At first, Lu Minghua was a bit unaccustomed, but after playing for a while, she got into the groove and continued playing without thinking too much. Unconsciously, it seemed as if she had a tacit understanding with the person next door, and the music became increasingly harmonious.

The crisp and bright sound of the pipa mixed with the clear and melodious sound of the flute, echoing through the mountains and forests.

It was inexplicably enchanting.

Zhan Yuan’s expression changed slightly, and she looked up at Lu Minghua. She saw Lu Minghua’s eyebrows gently lowered, the corners of her lips slightly raised, and her face full of an uncontrollable smile. It was as if she had eaten something sweet.

After a while, the piece ended, and Lu Minghua released her hand, letting the lingering sound of the strings gently tremble. She looked up at Zhan Yuan. She was about to speak when she heard the flute sound from next door again. In the mournful tones, the flute was playing “Phoenix Seeking Phoenix.” Her eyes paused, and she instinctively looked towards the next room, unable to snap out of it.

Zhan Yuan suddenly chuckled softly beside her, and Lu Minghua snapped out of it, meeting her teacher’s teasing gaze. In an instant, she felt her cheeks heat up, and she lowered her eyes to hide her flustered and shy expression. When she looked up again, she had regained some composure— If one didn’t look at her blushing cheeks.

“I was wondering who that flute was played for, and it turns out—” Zhan Yuan wanted to say more. She had long felt that something was off with Young Master Yuan, but since their interactions had always been upright and natural, she thought she was overthinking it.

It seems that someone has been plotting all along rather than overthinking it.

“Teacher,” Lu Minghua couldn’t help but interrupt, feeling too embarrassed to let her continue.

Zhan Yuan wanted to say more, but her smile faded, and she said, “How could a family like Young Master Yuan’s be willing to let him get entangled with someone like me, who has been divorced?”

Her smile paused. “Instead of getting entangled later, it’s better to…” Lu Minghua didn’t finish, her expression slightly melancholic, and she glanced lightly at the next door.

Is Young Master Yuan good? Yes, but he’s too good, and she can’t handle it.

“You’re thinking wrong.” Zhan Yuan shook her head.

Lu Minghua looked over, her eyes filled with a hint of expectation.

“You refused, and then what?”

“Then?” Lu Minghua was stunned.

“Life is short, just a few decades. Why leave yourself with regrets? Instead of overthinking, follow your heart.”

“In the end, it’s just about having a clear conscience.” Zhan Yuan smiled with a hint of nostalgia.

This teacher was not very worldly, and Lu Minghua was surprised to hear such words from her, which caused her to lose herself in thought.

“Do you know my story?” Zhan Yuan asked her.

Lu Minghua shook her head.

Then, Zhan Yuan told a story.

She was born into a scholarly family and loved music theory from a young age, studying it diligently. Later, she fell in love with a man. However, he was born weak and sickly, with a short life expectancy. Her family did not agree, but she insisted and eventually married him. After marriage, they respected each other and lived harmoniously for five years, but her husband eventually passed away.

“I have never regretted my decision all these years.” Zhan Yuan smiled, her eyes filled with warmth and sweetness. “Whenever I think of those times and play the zither we used to play together, I feel like he has never left me, always by my side.”

Seeing the smile on her face, Lu Minghua was deeply moved.

Her teacher had always been calm and composed, and in some ways, they were very similar. She had never seen her smile so happily, not even when she made progress in her zither skills, which only earned a look of appreciation.

Is this what love is?

“Minghua, remember my words, don’t let yourself regret it,” Zhan Yuan said softly. After speaking, she got up and left. When she returned to her bedroom, she gently stroked the zither, her eyes filled with a hint of nostalgia, and she smiled lightly.

Hopefully, she didn’t “mean well but ended up causing trouble.”

Left alone in the small building, Lu Minghua sat there, lost in thought, asking herself.

If she refused Yuan Ji’an, would she regret it?

She couldn’t figure it out. But being unable to figure it out was already an answer.

Hearing Little Ping An’s soft call from downstairs, Lu Minghua remembered Yuan Ji’an’s visit yesterday and those particularly straightforward eyes. Burning, as if they were going to melt her.

“Miss, Young Master Yuan requests to see you.” Mama Li hurried upstairs, seeing her face flushed and eyes glistening, and couldn’t help but be stunned.

“What is he here for?!” Lu Minghua was startled and a bit flustered, blurting out.

Mama Li didn’t understand what was going on with her and said, “Young Master Yuan didn’t say.”

“Not seeing him.” Lu Minghua regained her composure, realizing her earlier loss of control. Feeling embarrassed, she said, “Mama, please tell him I have something to do, and it’s inconvenient to see guests. Ask him to leave.”

Surprised by her refusal, Mama Li couldn’t help but ask, “Miss, did you have a quarrel with Young Master Yuan?”

“Oh dear,” Lu Minghua said anxiously, “Mama, don’t ask anymore. I just don’t want to see him. Please go quickly.”

Seeing her like this, she didn’t seem angry, did she?

Mama Li, full of confusion, went to the door.

Yan Yuanhua was sitting in the hall. When he saw only her coming, his expression changed slightly, and after hearing Mama Li’s words, he was left with disappointment.

Mama Li observed him, trying to determine whether the two had quarreled, but she couldn’t tell anything.

“Mama, how is Minghua’s mood?” Yan Yuanhua asked calmly.

This was his main purpose for coming today. Based on Lu Minghua’s previous avoidance, he had already guessed the result. If she had seen him, he would have been worried about whether she was preparing to reject him.

“Miss’s mood is fine.”

“Is she angry or upset?” Yan Yuanhua asked again.

Mama Li looked at him again, wondering if they had really quarreled. But weren’t they fine yesterday?

She guessed in her heart and shook her head.

“Then,” Yan Yuanhua’s mind turned, and he looked at Mama Li with a probing gaze. “Yesterday everything was fine. Why won’t she see me today? Did I do something wrong to upset her?”

Mama Li wanted to ask him, too, but didn’t expect to be asked back. She was surprised for a moment, thinking she might have guessed wrong. After thinking again, she said, “Young Master Yuan, you are overthinking. My lady is probably just thinking about something and is temporarily inconvenienced.”

“That’s good, that’s good.” Yan Yuanhua was delighted and said it twice—ass long as she wasn’t angry or upset.

Mama Li found it strange. It was just that her lady wasn’t angry, why was Young Master Yuan so happy?

“Mama, please pass this to Minghua for me.” Yan Yuanhua took out a wooden box and handed it to Mama Li.

Mama Li took it, and after he left, she went to find Lu Minghua and handed it to her.

Lu Minghua didn’t rush to look at it. She waited until she was alone in the room, then gently opened it, and her hand trembled.

Inside was a round phoenix jade pendant, the jade was warm and smooth to the touch, and it was unknown which master had carved it. The phoenix was depicted so vividly that with just a few strokes, one could imagine the beauty of its wings. Since ancient times, exchanging pendants between men and women has been a symbol of commitment. This was Yuan Ji’an’s straightforward way of expressing his feelings to her.

Lu Minghua’s heart trembled. She wanted Mama Li to return the item, but she was reluctant. Holding the jade pendant, she gently rubbed it and suddenly noticed some marks on the back. Upon closer inspection, she saw the words “Life and death, together with you” engraved on it.

Staring at it, she suddenly closed her eyes and gently put the jade pendant back, calling Mama Li to return it.

Mama Li felt something was wrong. She took the wooden box next door and easily met Yan Yuanhua, presenting the box to him.

“Minghua is always like this. Tell her this is a gift I specially prepared for her. If she doesn’t like it, she can throw it away or destroy it, whatever she wants, but she doesn’t need to return it,” Yan Yuanhua said with a hint of sadness in his voice.

Mama Li was at a loss.

“Mama, please convey this message to Minghua. No matter what it is, once I give it, I will never take it back,” he said firmly. It was the same, whether it was his feelings or the jade pendant.

With such determination, Mama Li couldn’t leave the item there, so she took it back and conveyed the message to Lu Minghua.

Holding the wooden box, Lu Minghua lowered her eyes, her heart surging with emotions, and remained silent for a long time.

“He’s really bad, isn’t he?” Lu Minghua said softly at night, holding her cat.

He made her restless and anxious, unable to agree, yet reluctant to refuse. She had thought that after a gentle refusal, they would understand each other, and everything would end there. But he persisted, becoming even more blatant.

Ping An didn’t understand her troubles and meowed a few times, wanting her to play with it.

“How can he be so domineering?” Lu Minghua said, slightly dazed and somewhat annoyed.

From that day on, whenever Lu Minghua played the pipa, the person next door would follow with a flute, then play a piece called “Phoenix Seeking Phoenix,” and after finishing, would come to visit.

After a few days of this, Mama Li finally noticed something was off. She looked at the man sitting in her house’s main hall, observing him closely. He was good-looking, well-built, and could make her lady happy. Most importantly, her lady was only troubled, not angry—

Mama Li was satisfied and personally brought a cup of hot tea, smiling broadly.

Yan Yuanhua, seeing this, felt a stir in his heart and asked the usual questions.

Mama Li, smiling, was much more pleasant than before. When she saw him leave with some disappointment, she felt even more pleased.

Look, without those blind ones, there are people who can see her lady’s worth. However, her lady was probably too distressed by those people before, unable to make a decision. What’s there to think about? Such a good gentleman, why let someone else have him?

“Miss, Young Master Yuan has left,” Mama Li reported to Lu Minghua after seeing him leave. She glanced at her lady’s expression and noticed her looking out the window with some anxiety.

Lu Minghua responded casually a few times, and just as Mama Li was about to leave, she called her back and hesitantly asked, “Mama, how did Young Master Yuan look when he left? Was he angry?”

Mama Li couldn’t help but laugh and vividly described Young Master Yuan’s disappointment.

Lu Minghua’s expression changed again.

“He’s really persistent, isn’t he? It’s been seven days now,” Zhan Yuan said with a smile after Mama Li left.

“Teacher,” Lu Minghua blushed.

“Have you not made up your mind yet?” Zhan Yuan asked.

Lu Minghua clutched her handkerchief, her heart pounding, feeling impulsive but suppressing it, unable to make a decision.

A few more days passed, and seeing Young Master Yuan visiting every day for ten days without giving up, Mama Li, while combing Lu Minghua’s hair in the evening, tentatively asked, “Miss, does Young Master Yuan have feelings for you?”

Lu Minghua paused, holding the hairpin.

Her little cat, Ping An, immediately stretched out its paw, trying to play with the tassel on the hairpin.

“Mama,” Lu Minghua said helplessly, “It’s one thing for the teacher to tease me during the day, but now even you are starting.”

“I think Young Master Yuan is very sincere. What do you think?” Mama Li asked.

Lu Minghua was silent for a moment and expressed her concerns.

To her surprise, Mama Li laughed after hearing her out.

“Miss, it’s not for me to say, but since ancient times, very few mothers-in-law have been pleased with their daughters-in-law. It’s your life with Young Master Yuan. If you two are happy, why worry about those things?”

“That’s not the right way to put it, they are still his family,” Lu Minghua disagreed.

Her lady had always been decisive, but this time, she made things difficult for herself, ultimately showing her reluctance.

Feeling sorry for her, Mama Li said directly, “Miss, you have all these concerns. Why not ask Young Master Yuan directly? After all, it’s something he should consider.”

Lu Minghua was stunned. She had been thinking about it from all angles, with countless worries, but never thought of directly asking Yuan Ji’an.

The next day, Yan Yuanhua visited again.

Mama Li came forward, and he was ready to ask again, but the old nanny in front of him said, “Please wait a moment, Young Master. My lady is delayed by some matters and will be here shortly.”

In a daze, he almost thought he had misheard. His heart pounded rapidly, and Yan Yuanhua finally regained his composure, sat up straighter, and said, “Alright.”

Author’s Note:

A previous unsuccessful marriage has left Minghua with many concerns, making her hesitant to accept, but if she were to refuse, she would feel reluctant, as she has only received too little affection. Minghua is not yet at the stage of loving the young prince; it’s more about a lot of liking and reluctance. Previously, the young prince taught her how to be happy. Next, I want him to teach Minghua how to love.

Chapter 41

The kitten naturally couldn’t say anything; it moved slightly and slept even more soundly in the fragrant and soft embrace.

“Oh, this is a kitten. Let me see. It’s a little golden blanket on a silver bed.” Mama Li was a bit surprised when she saw it. After examining it, she smiled and said, looking very fond of it, “Did Young Master Yuan send it?”

“Golden blanket on a silver bed?” Lu Minghua ignored the latter part of the sentence, took a step towards the bedroom, and asked curiously.

“This kind of yellow back and white belly is called a golden blanket on a silver bed, and it’s a good omen.” Mama Li explained with a smile.

“So that’s how it is.” Lu Minghua suddenly realized, looking at the little creature in her arms. Seeing it lying obediently in her embrace, she couldn’t help but smile.

“By the way, Mama, what do such small creatures eat? Should we make a little nest for it? Hmm, let it sleep in my room.” She said in a series of questions.

“This kitten is easy to take care of. At this size, it can already eat some meat. But it can’t sleep in your room; kittens are noisy and might disturb your sleep.”

“It’s okay.” Lu Minghua liked these little creatures very much. She couldn’t keep them before, but now that she finally could, she was happy and just wanted to spoil them.

“No, no,”

“Mama,” Lu Minghua looked at Mama Li softly.

Mama Li had no choice but to compromise, saying, “It can only sleep in the outer room.” It would be fine to let the maids watch over it.

“Okay, Mama, get some needles and cloth, and I’ll make a little nest for it.” Lu Minghua said happily.

“No need for cloth, you can use your old clothes, it will help it get familiar and not be afraid.”

“Okay, I’ll listen to Mama.” Lu Minghua knew little about raising cats, so she followed Mama Li’s instructions.

Mama Li then found some of Lu Minghua’s old clothes, and the two of them busied themselves for a while, finally making a little nest.

Outside, a maid brought in some cooked, shredded meat, intending to feed it herself, but Lu Minghua called her away.

“I’ll do it. I’ll feed it.” She held the small bowl, took a spoonful, and handed it over.

The kitten had already climbed up, following the smell of meat. It came over and sniffed lightly, cautiously tasted a bite, and then quickly started eating.

Lu Minghua wanted to feed it herself, but the little creature didn’t give her a chance, already burying its head in the bowl.

She let go and sat aside, watching happily. Several maids also gathered around, finding it very novel. After finishing its meal, the little creature walked around the room. Mama Li said it was getting familiar with the place. However, it was still young, and after a round, it obediently returned to Lu Minghua’s side, wanting to lie in her arms.

Lu Minghua wanted it to try the new little nest, so she gently placed it inside. The little creature rolled over several times and climbed out again, still wanting to burrow into Lu Minghua’s arms.

Lu Minghua hesitated, wondering if the nest was uncomfortable, and ended up holding it again.

“Miss, you shouldn’t always indulge it. Otherwise, when you need to attend to important matters, having it in your arms won’t be acceptable.”

The little creature meowed softly a few times, lying obediently in Lu Minghua’s arms.

“Mama, it’s okay. When the time comes, I won’t hold it.” Stroking the soft little creature in her arms, Lu Minghua replied.

Mama Li shook her head helplessly. Little creatures like kittens are the most likely to take advantage. Seeing her young mistress not listening to advice, she knew there would be trouble in the future.

“Mama, what do you think we should name it?” Lu Minghua asked expectantly.

“Miss, you can decide.” Seeing her young mistress like this, Mama Li thought it was good. After all, her young mistress didn’t have much to do, and having a little creature to pass the time with wasn’t bad.

“Then let’s call it Ping An.” Lu Minghua thought for a moment and smiled softly. She stroked Ping An’s fur. She didn’t need this little creature to be very smart or obedient, just safe and sound.

At night, it was time to sleep.

Lu Minghua wanted to sleep with the little creature, but she was restless in her sleep and feared she might crush it. Finally, she listened to Mama Li’s advice and placed it in the little nest.

Ping An clearly didn’t like the little nest, climbing up and meowing softly at Lu Minghua, following her around. After a few steps, it started pouncing on the hem of Lu Minghua’s skirt.

Lu Minghua found it amusing and moved her steps to dodge. The kitten followed and pounced, and she moved again. In an instant, her skirt spread out like a flower, and the little yellow ball pounced left and right, trying to catch it but failing.

Her smile grew wider, and when Lu Minghua realized it, she was surprised to find herself laughing out loud. The kitten played for a while, then seemed tired and lying down.

Lu Minghua stood still, just about to bend down to pick it up when she saw Ping An leap and finally hook onto the hem of her skirt.

“Naughty.” Lu Minghua gently tapped its little head and placed it in the nest.

Ping An rolled over, seemingly exhausted, and didn’t follow Lu Minghua anymore.

Lu Minghua had a good night’s dream. In the morning, she was awakened by the morning light falling into the room. As she got up and was about to step into her embroidered shoes, she found a little yellow ball.

Ping An was sleeping on the footrest in front of her bed. Her gaze paused, and she looked quietly, her heart seemingly softening.

After getting up and washing happily, she looked up to see the high sky and rolling forest outside. Lu Minghua stood at the door, hesitated for a while, and eventually didn’t go out.

“Your Highness, Miss Lu didn’t go out.” Zhao Shiyi watched for a while, and when the sound of the pipa from next door started, he hurried back to report.

Yan Yuanhua glanced at Zhao Shiyi. He had known when Zhao Shiyi didn’t return earlier. The sound of the pipa from next door was continuous, clear, and melodious. He could immediately tell that Master Zhan played it. Although it was the same sound, Lu Minghua’s playing was always gentler. He turned his hand and took out a flute.

When Zhan Yuan’s pipa sound ended and Lu Minghua’s pipa sound started, he leisurely blew the first note.

The pipa sound paused.

Lu Minghua’s fingers paused on the strings, staring blankly at the next room.

“Don’t stop. You two are just right for a duet.” Zhan Yuan was also momentarily surprised, then smiled and said.

It was perfect timing, as Lu Minghua had been working behind closed doors recently. Now, playing a duet with someone would surely bring some improvement. The flute’s sound was clear and melodious, with a hint of lingering affection in its mournful tones.

Lu Minghua’s fingers hesitated to fall, and it was only when Zhan Yuan looked at her in confusion that she lightly plucked the strings.

At first, Lu Minghua was a bit unaccustomed, but after playing for a while, she got into the groove and continued playing without thinking too much. Unconsciously, it seemed as if she had a tacit understanding with the person next door, and the music became increasingly harmonious.

The crisp and bright sound of the pipa mixed with the clear and melodious sound of the flute, echoing through the mountains and forests.

It was inexplicably enchanting.

Zhan Yuan’s expression changed slightly, and she looked up at Lu Minghua. She saw Lu Minghua’s eyebrows gently lowered, the corners of her lips slightly raised, and her face full of an uncontrollable smile. It was as if she had eaten something sweet.

After a while, the piece ended, and Lu Minghua released her hand, letting the lingering sound of the strings gently tremble. She looked up at Zhan Yuan. She was about to speak when she heard the flute sound from next door again. In the mournful tones, the flute was playing “Phoenix Seeking Phoenix.” Her eyes paused, and she instinctively looked towards the next room, unable to snap out of it.

Zhan Yuan suddenly chuckled softly beside her, and Lu Minghua snapped out of it, meeting her teacher’s teasing gaze. In an instant, she felt her cheeks heat up, and she lowered her eyes to hide her flustered and shy expression. When she looked up again, she had regained some composure— If one didn’t look at her blushing cheeks.

“I was wondering who that flute was played for, and it turns out—” Zhan Yuan wanted to say more. She had long felt that something was off with Young Master Yuan, but since their interactions had always been upright and natural, she thought she was overthinking it.

It seems that someone has been plotting all along rather than overthinking it.

“Teacher,” Lu Minghua couldn’t help but interrupt, feeling too embarrassed to let her continue.

Zhan Yuan wanted to say more, but her smile faded, and she said, “How could a family like Young Master Yuan’s be willing to let him get entangled with someone like me, who has been divorced?”

Her smile paused. “Instead of getting entangled later, it’s better to…” Lu Minghua didn’t finish, her expression slightly melancholic, and she glanced lightly at the next door.

Is Young Master Yuan good? Yes, but he’s too good, and she can’t handle it.

“You’re thinking wrong.” Zhan Yuan shook her head.

Lu Minghua looked over, her eyes filled with a hint of expectation.

“You refused, and then what?”

“Then?” Lu Minghua was stunned.

“Life is short, just a few decades. Why leave yourself with regrets? Instead of overthinking, follow your heart.”

“In the end, it’s just about having a clear conscience.” Zhan Yuan smiled with a hint of nostalgia.

This teacher was not very worldly, and Lu Minghua was surprised to hear such words from her, which caused her to lose herself in thought.

“Do you know my story?” Zhan Yuan asked her.

Lu Minghua shook her head.

Then, Zhan Yuan told a story.

She was born into a scholarly family and loved music theory from a young age, studying it diligently. Later, she fell in love with a man. However, he was born weak and sickly, with a short life expectancy. Her family did not agree, but she insisted and eventually married him. After marriage, they respected each other and lived harmoniously for five years, but her husband eventually passed away.

“I have never regretted my decision all these years.” Zhan Yuan smiled, her eyes filled with warmth and sweetness. “Whenever I think of those times and play the zither we used to play together, I feel like he has never left me, always by my side.”

Seeing the smile on her face, Lu Minghua was deeply moved.

Her teacher had always been calm and composed, and in some ways, they were very similar. She had never seen her smile so happily, not even when she made progress in her zither skills, which only earned a look of appreciation.

Is this what love is?

“Minghua, remember my words, don’t let yourself regret it,” Zhan Yuan said softly. After speaking, she got up and left. When she returned to her bedroom, she gently stroked the zither, her eyes filled with a hint of nostalgia, and she smiled lightly.

Hopefully, she didn’t “mean well but ended up causing trouble.”

Left alone in the small building, Lu Minghua sat there, lost in thought, asking herself.

If she refused Yuan Ji’an, would she regret it?

She couldn’t figure it out. But being unable to figure it out was already an answer.

Hearing Little Ping An’s soft call from downstairs, Lu Minghua remembered Yuan Ji’an’s visit yesterday and those particularly straightforward eyes. Burning, as if they were going to melt her.

“Miss, Young Master Yuan requests to see you.” Mama Li hurried upstairs, seeing her face flushed and eyes glistening, and couldn’t help but be stunned.

“What is he here for?!” Lu Minghua was startled and a bit flustered, blurting out.

Mama Li didn’t understand what was going on with her and said, “Young Master Yuan didn’t say.”

“Not seeing him.” Lu Minghua regained her composure, realizing her earlier loss of control. Feeling embarrassed, she said, “Mama, please tell him I have something to do, and it’s inconvenient to see guests. Ask him to leave.”

Surprised by her refusal, Mama Li couldn’t help but ask, “Miss, did you have a quarrel with Young Master Yuan?”

“Oh dear,” Lu Minghua said anxiously, “Mama, don’t ask anymore. I just don’t want to see him. Please go quickly.”

Seeing her like this, she didn’t seem angry, did she?

Mama Li, full of confusion, went to the door.

Yan Yuanhua was sitting in the hall. When he saw only her coming, his expression changed slightly, and after hearing Mama Li’s words, he was left with disappointment.

Mama Li observed him, trying to determine whether the two had quarreled, but she couldn’t tell anything.

“Mama, how is Minghua’s mood?” Yan Yuanhua asked calmly.

This was his main purpose for coming today. Based on Lu Minghua’s previous avoidance, he had already guessed the result. If she had seen him, he would have been worried about whether she was preparing to reject him.

“Miss’s mood is fine.”

“Is she angry or upset?” Yan Yuanhua asked again.

Mama Li looked at him again, wondering if they had really quarreled. But weren’t they fine yesterday?

She guessed in her heart and shook her head.

“Then,” Yan Yuanhua’s mind turned, and he looked at Mama Li with a probing gaze. “Yesterday everything was fine. Why won’t she see me today? Did I do something wrong to upset her?”

Mama Li wanted to ask him, too, but didn’t expect to be asked back. She was surprised for a moment, thinking she might have guessed wrong. After thinking again, she said, “Young Master Yuan, you are overthinking. My lady is probably just thinking about something and is temporarily inconvenienced.”

“That’s good, that’s good.” Yan Yuanhua was delighted and said it twice—ass long as she wasn’t angry or upset.

Mama Li found it strange. It was just that her lady wasn’t angry, why was Young Master Yuan so happy?

“Mama, please pass this to Minghua for me.” Yan Yuanhua took out a wooden box and handed it to Mama Li.

Mama Li took it, and after he left, she went to find Lu Minghua and handed it to her.

Lu Minghua didn’t rush to look at it. She waited until she was alone in the room, then gently opened it, and her hand trembled.

Inside was a round phoenix jade pendant, the jade was warm and smooth to the touch, and it was unknown which master had carved it. The phoenix was depicted so vividly that with just a few strokes, one could imagine the beauty of its wings. Since ancient times, exchanging pendants between men and women has been a symbol of commitment. This was Yuan Ji’an’s straightforward way of expressing his feelings to her.

Lu Minghua’s heart trembled. She wanted Mama Li to return the item, but she was reluctant. Holding the jade pendant, she gently rubbed it and suddenly noticed some marks on the back. Upon closer inspection, she saw the words “Life and death, together with you” engraved on it.

Staring at it, she suddenly closed her eyes and gently put the jade pendant back, calling Mama Li to return it.

Mama Li felt something was wrong. She took the wooden box next door and easily met Yan Yuanhua, presenting the box to him.

“Minghua is always like this. Tell her this is a gift I specially prepared for her. If she doesn’t like it, she can throw it away or destroy it, whatever she wants, but she doesn’t need to return it,” Yan Yuanhua said with a hint of sadness in his voice.

Mama Li was at a loss.

“Mama, please convey this message to Minghua. No matter what it is, once I give it, I will never take it back,” he said firmly. It was the same, whether it was his feelings or the jade pendant.

With such determination, Mama Li couldn’t leave the item there, so she took it back and conveyed the message to Lu Minghua.

Holding the wooden box, Lu Minghua lowered her eyes, her heart surging with emotions, and remained silent for a long time.

“He’s really bad, isn’t he?” Lu Minghua said softly at night, holding her cat.

He made her restless and anxious, unable to agree, yet reluctant to refuse. She had thought that after a gentle refusal, they would understand each other, and everything would end there. But he persisted, becoming even more blatant.

Ping An didn’t understand her troubles and meowed a few times, wanting her to play with it.

“How can he be so domineering?” Lu Minghua said, slightly dazed and somewhat annoyed.

From that day on, whenever Lu Minghua played the pipa, the person next door would follow with a flute, then play a piece called “Phoenix Seeking Phoenix,” and after finishing, would come to visit.

After a few days of this, Mama Li finally noticed something was off. She looked at the man sitting in her house’s main hall, observing him closely. He was good-looking, well-built, and could make her lady happy. Most importantly, her lady was only troubled, not angry—

Mama Li was satisfied and personally brought a cup of hot tea, smiling broadly.

Yan Yuanhua, seeing this, felt a stir in his heart and asked the usual questions.

Mama Li, smiling, was much more pleasant than before. When she saw him leave with some disappointment, she felt even more pleased.

Look, without those blind ones, there are people who can see her lady’s worth. However, her lady was probably too distressed by those people before, unable to make a decision. What’s there to think about? Such a good gentleman, why let someone else have him?

“Miss, Young Master Yuan has left,” Mama Li reported to Lu Minghua after seeing him leave. She glanced at her lady’s expression and noticed her looking out the window with some anxiety.

Lu Minghua responded casually a few times, and just as Mama Li was about to leave, she called her back and hesitantly asked, “Mama, how did Young Master Yuan look when he left? Was he angry?”

Mama Li couldn’t help but laugh and vividly described Young Master Yuan’s disappointment.

Lu Minghua’s expression changed again.

“He’s really persistent, isn’t he? It’s been seven days now,” Zhan Yuan said with a smile after Mama Li left.

“Teacher,” Lu Minghua blushed.

“Have you not made up your mind yet?” Zhan Yuan asked.

Lu Minghua clutched her handkerchief, her heart pounding, feeling impulsive but suppressing it, unable to make a decision.

A few more days passed, and seeing Young Master Yuan visiting every day for ten days without giving up, Mama Li, while combing Lu Minghua’s hair in the evening, tentatively asked, “Miss, does Young Master Yuan have feelings for you?”

Lu Minghua paused, holding the hairpin.

Her little cat, Ping An, immediately stretched out its paw, trying to play with the tassel on the hairpin.

“Mama,” Lu Minghua said helplessly, “It’s one thing for the teacher to tease me during the day, but now even you are starting.”

“I think Young Master Yuan is very sincere. What do you think?” Mama Li asked.

Lu Minghua was silent for a moment and expressed her concerns.

To her surprise, Mama Li laughed after hearing her out.

“Miss, it’s not for me to say, but since ancient times, very few mothers-in-law have been pleased with their daughters-in-law. It’s your life with Young Master Yuan. If you two are happy, why worry about those things?”

“That’s not the right way to put it, they are still his family,” Lu Minghua disagreed.

Her lady had always been decisive, but this time, she made things difficult for herself, ultimately showing her reluctance.

Feeling sorry for her, Mama Li said directly, “Miss, you have all these concerns. Why not ask Young Master Yuan directly? After all, it’s something he should consider.”

Lu Minghua was stunned. She had been thinking about it from all angles, with countless worries, but never thought of directly asking Yuan Ji’an.

The next day, Yan Yuanhua visited again.

Mama Li came forward, and he was ready to ask again, but the old nanny in front of him said, “Please wait a moment, Young Master. My lady is delayed by some matters and will be here shortly.”

In a daze, he almost thought he had misheard. His heart pounded rapidly, and Yan Yuanhua finally regained his composure, sat up straighter, and said, “Alright.”

Author’s Note:

A previous unsuccessful marriage has left Minghua with many concerns, making her hesitant to accept, but if she were to refuse, she would feel reluctant, as she has only received too little affection. Minghua is not yet at the stage of loving the young prince; it’s more about a lot of liking and reluctance. Previously, the young prince taught her how to be happy. Next, I want him to teach Minghua how to love.