“It’s fine, it’s fine. Safety is the priority.” Lord Guo waved his hand kindly and said to Guan Chunyi, “Quickly take Nangong Shuang back to her room to rest, and have the kitchen prepare some nourishing soup.”
Guan Chunyi complied, supporting Nangong Shuang as they returned to her chamber. Along the way, Nangong Shuang discreetly observed the situation at Guo Residence and noticed that the guards had increased significantly compared to before, with stricter access controls in place. Clearly, they were on high alert.
Once back in her room, Nangong Shuang immediately checked the bed’s hidden compartment and found that the Plum Blossom Token was indeed missing, letting out a silent sigh.
After settling Nangong Shuang in, Guan Chunyi gave her a few more reminders before reluctantly leaving. The room fell silent, allowing Nangong Shuang a moment to breathe. She looked around to ensure no one was watching and quietly took out the antidote incense given to her by Xiao Zhongyan, hiding it in her clothing.
Although last night’s chaos had been perilous, it had also revealed the true nature of the Guo Family. Lord Guo appeared gentle on the surface but was actually colluding with the Crown Prince's Mansion to target her. Now that she had returned to this den of tigers, she knew she had to be cautious to protect herself.
In the following two days, Nangong Shuang remained mostly indoors, ostensibly needing rest due to her shock but actually observing the internal dynamics of Guo Residence. She noticed a subtle shift in how everyone treated her; although they were outwardly respectful, there were always eyes watching her every move. Particularly, the steward Zhang Lu treated her with cold disdain and made things difficult for her at every turn.
On the third morning, just after finishing her grooming, she heard someone outside announcing that Qian Mansion had sent someone with a delivery.
“Is it Qiao Er?” A surge of joy filled Nangong Shuang’s heart as she hurriedly instructed a maid to greet them at the door.
Moments later, a delicate young maid entered, holding an exquisite sandalwood box. The maid appeared to be around fourteen or fifteen years old, with twin buns in her hair and large, lively eyes that sparkled. A faint dimple graced her lips, making her look completely different from Qiao Er.
“Nangong Shuang is well,” the young maid performed a proper greeting with a clear and pleasant voice. “I am Xiao Cha, a new maid from Qian Mansion. Madam Qian sent me to deliver some clothing and daily necessities for you. Please accept them.”
Nangong Shuang scrutinized this “Xiao Cha,” feeling an odd sense of familiarity but unable to place it. She accepted the box and casually asked, “Thank you. How is Qian Mansion doing lately?”
“Everything is well,” Xiao Cha replied with her head lowered, but a glint of cunning flashed in her eyes. “Madam Qian said that if Nangong Shuang finds it uncomfortable at Guo Residence, you can return to Qian Mansion anytime.”
Nangong Shuang’s heart stirred; she began to suspect this maid's true identity and softly said, “Please convey my gratitude to Madam for her kindness. By the way, how is Qiao Er?”
Xiao Cha blinked and smiled slightly. “Sister Qiao Er is doing very well. She specifically asked me to send her regards and said she is fine and following your instructions.”
Upon hearing this, Nangong Shuang was immediately convinced that this “Xiao Cha” must be Qiao Er in disguise! She hadn’t expected Qiao Er’s skills in disguise to be so remarkable that even she almost failed to recognize her.
“In that case,” Nangong Shuang said calmly, “please tell Madam Qian that I am doing well at Guo Residence and there’s no need for concern. I will accept this box; you may return now.”
However, Xiao Cha did not rush to leave but instead looked around before lowering her voice. “Miss, Madam Qian wishes for me to stay here at Guo Residence to serve you; she has already discussed it with Lord Guo. From today on, I will be your personal maid.”
Nangong Shuang raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Really?”
“Absolutely,” Xiao Cha replied proudly with a bright smile revealing a row of neat teeth. “Madam Qian cares for you deeply and specially arranged this with Lord Guo’s approval.”
Nangong Shuang understood that this was how Qiao Er had found a way to stay at Guo Residence. With Qiao Er’s assistance, her situation here would surely improve significantly.
“Then I appreciate your help,” Nangong Shuang nodded thoughtfully as plans began forming in her mind.
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