CHAPTER 1170: CHAPTER 1168: MAKING FRIENDS

Having experienced two lifetimes, Wufu had attended grand banquets before, including high-society gatherings during mission assignments in her previous life. However, this was her first time attending a social gathering of young ladies of this age group.

Yet, she didn’t feel uneasy at all. Holding a cup of tea, she leaned against the wooden bench in the pavilion, watching others play music, compose poetry, paint, or play chess. It was a rare instance of peace and charm.

She turned her head to look at He Lake. The pond was filled with lotus leaves, some of the lotus flowers already in full bloom while others were still buds, each with its own delicacy. As the breeze blew, a scent of lotus wafted over, truly refreshing. Somehow, it made her suddenly think of Ah Jiu.

If he were here now, he would likely appreciate this beautiful scenery too.

Hmm, she missed him a little. What could that guy be up to?

"What are you thinking about?" Guan Chuying turned her head to see Wufu with a slight smile on her lips. Although she was alone, she seemed at ease, prompting Guan to walk over.

Wufu smiled and said, "Just reminiscing about some amusing things." She added, "Why did you stop painting?"

Guan Chuying replied, "One can paint anytime, but finding someone agreeable to talk to is rare."

The two exchanged a glance and both burst into laughter.

"I heard from the Commandery Princess that you just arrived in Changan?" Guan Chuying asked curiously.

Wufu said, "I arrived in March, so I’ve been here only three or four months." Though the time was short, she had accomplished quite a bit during this period.

Time flies!

Guan Chuying sat down and began talking to her about interesting anecdotes. As the other party showed an interest in chatting, Wufu was not pretentious and arrogant. She engaged in the conversation, answering questions and adding her own insights, and the two got along well.

"You two seem to get along well," Changping finished a game of chess and approached, taking a sip of tea handed to her by a maid.

Guan Chuying laughed and said, "Miss Wu has quite a witty way with words."

"Indeed, let me tell you, don’t let her age mislead you. She’s the proprietor of Zining Pavilion, and... well, in short, Wufu is quite fun," Changping said.

"So it’s your family’s business?" Guan Chuying said in astonishment. "I’ve heard of Zining Pavilion before and even asked a maid to buy some things back. Your shopkeeper is quite good at their job, even sent some samples of face powder."

"The most important thing about cosmetics is if they suit one’s skin. If you have time, you should visit and choose a shade that matches your complexion. Afterward, you can ask the maid to buy more of that specific one," Wufu said with a smile.

Guan Chuying blinked and said, "In that case, can I get a discount if I mention your name, Miss Wu? The items at Zining Pavilion aren’t cheap."

"If you call me Wufu, of course, I can say yes. Don’t call me Miss Wu," Wufu said with a laugh. "Later, I’ll pick some items and send them to your home for you to choose from."

Guan Chuying quickly thanked her and said, "Then you should call me Chuying. I reached the age of marriage in January, how about you?"

Wufu smiled and called out, "Sister Guan, I’m on the second day of February."

As they were talking, Qing Xin walked to the pavilion and glanced at Changping.

Changping’s eyes flickered. She let everyone continue chatting while she stepped down into the pavilion. Qing Xin leaned in and whispered a few words to her.

Wufu noticed from the corner of her eye that Changping’s brow furrowed slightly, her face showing a hint of displeasure, but she quickly returned to normal. She walked to the pavilion and told everyone she was going to prepare something fun herself, inviting them to continue enjoying themselves, and left Qing Xin to await orders while she hurriedly left with her entourage.

No one paid much attention to this little episode. Seeing that Wufu was amiable and fun-loving, Guan Chuying wanted to befriend her and pulled her along as they walked a little further, bringing painting supplies to paint.