When they returned to the Cheng Mansion, feeling a bit tired and not having figured out how to introduce Mu Li's identity for the moment, Cheng Xiran and the others intended to bypass the main compound and go directly to the back courtyard. Unexpectedly, they were startled by Nanny Wang, who suddenly emerged from the darkness.
Seeing this, Mu Li drew her long sword and was about to step forward. Fortunately, Cheng Xiran stopped her in time. Nanny Wang didn't notice the long sword in her hand. She only heard a sharp noise just now. Seeing that there was nothing unusual around, she thought it was just an auditory hallucination.
Immediately, with an old - fashioned look on her face, she said, "Madam is still waiting in the front hall because she's worried about the eldest young lady's safety. The eldest young lady might as well go and say hello first before going back to rest."
Cheng Xiran secretly gave Mu Li a look. After she put away her long sword, Cheng Xiran ordered Zhuque, "It's getting late. You two take Liyin to wash up and rest first, and then tidy up a room for Mu Li. I'll go back later."
Hearing this, Nanny Wang finally noticed Mu Li, who was a head taller than everyone else present.
Perhaps Mu Li's eyes carried a hint of killing intent, which made Nanny Wang shiver. "Eldest young lady, who is this?"
"Father is always worried about me when I'm outside. So I've hired a bodyguard for myself..." Seeing the confusion still on Nanny Wang's face, Cheng Xiran colded her tone and continued as if questioning, "Nanny Wang, do I need your approval for everything I do?"
Nanny Wang quickly shook her head and then invited Cheng Xiran to leave.
Following her through the lush greenery, they came to the front hall. Under the bright candlelight, Mrs. Liu was reclining on a pear - wood chair, wearing a vermilion brocade - satin fur coat over her clothes, looking lazy.
Only then did Cheng Xiran realize that since Mrs. Liu had been promoted to the main wife, she had taken a fancy to these bright and vivid colors.
Cheng Xiran gave a soft cough. Seeing Mrs. Liu slightly open her eyes, she stepped forward and saluted, "Greetings to Madam."
Since there were only the two of them, there was no need to follow the usual formalities.
"You really know how to have fun. The servants went out to look for you half an hour ago, but it took them more than an hour to find you."
Mrs. Liu picked up the teacup beside her and took a sip. Only then did her lazy consciousness gradually clear up.
"If you have something to say, just say it directly. There's no need to beat around the bush."
Cheng Xiran sat down on one side by herself, propping her head up with one hand. If it weren't for the cool wind blowing in from the yard because of her position, she might have fallen asleep long ago.
"The old madam has been looking for a good family for you recently. I haven't been idle either. I've also arranged a match for you. It's the eldest son of Lord Qian, the vice - minister of the Ministry of Revenue. I heard that he's also got a good position in the court. Moreover, his age is similar to yours. The most important thing is that he's interested in you. He even came to visit specially today, but you weren't at home."
The eldest son of Lord Qian, the vice - minister of the Ministry of Revenue... Qian Youliang?
Cheng Xiran slightly lowered her eyes, but a ripple appeared in them. Everyone in the capital knew about Qian Youliang. He was stubborn and well - known for his lust. It was said that he had been involved in a manslaughter case in the early years. Relying on his father's status, he had been doing evil for many years without being punished. He got a idle official position last year, but he was lazy in handling official business every day. Many common people resented him but had to remain silent because of his power.
Mrs. Liu's intention was obvious.
A sneer appeared on Cheng Xiran's lips. Suddenly, she raised her eyes and stared fixedly at Mrs. Liu. After a moment of silence, she said, "Madam is really kind to me."