Actually, Wanyan is quite kind, Qiao Yihuan mused.
Xiaoying, however, still harbored resentment over past events, her dislike for the second young lady unwavering. Yet, she felt a growing sense of confusion regarding Qiao Wanyan's current behavior.
Has she truly changed for the better? she wondered skeptically.
No, there must be a hidden motive!
This deceitful woman, old habits die hard. She won't change her ways so easily! Xiaoying internally protested.
Zi Yuan, witnessing the scene, felt a sudden wave of despair wash over her, as though the sky had once again darkened, threatening to collapse upon her.
Thus, while one of the maids suspected Qiao Wanyan was orchestrating some elaborate scheme, the other simply believed she had lost her senses.
With these conflicting thoughts swirling in their minds, the group boarded the carriage and resumed their journey. As winter days were short, dusk descended quickly, and by evening, they arrived in Anchang County, seeking lodging at the largest inn in town.
The innkeeper, noting the opulent attire of the lead travelers, immediately recognized the arrival of wealthy patrons.
"Welcome, gentlemen! Are you here for a meal or to stay the night?" he inquired, his voice oozing with obsequiousness.
"We require rooms," Qiao Wanyan replied in a soft, polite tone. "I would be grateful if you could provide my sister, my brother-in-law, and myself with your finest accommodations."
The innkeeper's smile widened, revealing a hint of avarice. "Certainly! We happen to have only two of our best rooms remaining. One for the young lady, and one for the young couple – perfect!"
Qiao Yihuan subtly turned her head to glance at He Zhiyu, who appeared to be experiencing a similar sense of awkwardness.
Qiao Wanyan observed their expressions with keen interest. If neither of them speaks up, they'll be sharing a room. But wouldn't that be detrimental to Yihuan's reputation? There will undoubtedly be gossip, but I can't simply declare they can't share a room, as it would appear I'm trying to keep them apart. Then again, even if there's gossip, they are the destined couple, so if they both desire it, perhaps there's no real issue.
Wanyan, with her modern sensibilities, didn't overthink the situation. She personally saw no harm in them sharing a room, as both were considered adults in this era. Wanyan wasn't concerned with the formalities; she simply wanted them together as quickly as possible. Everyone possesses a degree of selfishness, and Wanyan was no exception.
He Zhiyu, however, spoke first. He recognized Yihuan's timidity and inability to navigate such a delicate situation, and felt compelled to protect her reputation.
"Yihuan, you and your sister can each have a room. Innkeeper, please find me a standard guest room as well."
The innkeeper chuckled knowingly. "Young master, what's the need for such coyness now that you're married? What newlywed couple sleeps apart?"
He Zhiyu struggled to find a suitable explanation, but Qiao Wanyan intervened, skillfully diffusing the situation. "My sister and brother-in-law are currently having a lovers' quarrel, it's quite bothersome. Innkeeper, please lead us to our rooms; we're all exhausted from our travels."
Oh, well, it seems like the Crown Prince is really a gentleman, Qiao Wanyan thought to herself, a flicker of genuine respect momentarily eclipsing her matchmaking fervor. It's a pity; if they shared a room together, it would make my work easier.
The innkeeper nodded in understanding; the young couple was clearly experiencing some marital discord and preferred separate accommodations.
He Zhiyu cast several thoughtful glances in Qiao Wanyan's direction.
When it came time to assign the rooms, Qiao Wanyan immediately claimed one of the less desirable chambers, saying considerately, "I'm so grateful that my brother-in-law allowed my sister and I to stay in such lovely guest rooms. However, he's been working tirelessly to care for us throughout this journey. My sister would feel terrible if he couldn't get a good night's rest."
While her words seemed designed to bring the couple closer together, He Zhiyu also sensed a subtle attempt to demonstrate her own kind and thoughtful nature.
Yihuan is such a kind-hearted person; how bad could her younger sister truly be? he mused.
Back in her room, Zi Yuan grumbled, "Why are you creating opportunities for the eldest young lady and the prince, Miss?"
Qiao Wanyan's lips curved into a blissful smile. Of course, I'm simply being considerate in order to finish this task more quickly. Life in this era was pleasant, but she yearned for her modern life. She still had countless dramas to binge-watch, her newly purchased car to enjoy, not to mention her loving family, her cellphone, and, of course, WiFi. And then there were her favorite snacks and drinks! Thinking of all these things, Wanyan felt a wave of homesickness wash over her, bringing her close to tears.
However, seeing her expression, Zi Yuan misinterpreted her mistress's feelings, assuming that she still harbored affection for the Crown Prince, but couldn't quite grasp why she was actively encouraging their relationship. Zi Yuan scratched her forehead in frustration, utterly perplexed.