Bai Qingqing impatiently interrupted him, "Do you think I’m easy to deceive just because I don’t go out often, Master Fu? I’m not stupid. You’re at the age for matchmaking, personally selecting jewelry for eligible young ladies. Go ask around—are there any other distant relatives who do this? What’s so hard to admit? Why are you so quick to deny it? Aren’t you afraid of hurting your cousin’s feelings?"

She rolled her eyes slightly and sat down in the shade of a tree. Fu Yi stood still, his mind suddenly struck with a realization.

He... had never really thought about it before!

When his mother asked him to buy something, he simply did it. In his past life, he had bought many things for Lu Qingyun at his mother’s behest, always selecting them carefully for fear his mother would be dissatisfied. To him, it was just a task, but to others, was it really seen that way?

Behind him, Bai Qingqing was still mumbling, clearly dissatisfied, "What’s so hard to admit about liking someone? It’s not something to be ashamed of. Looking at it this way, it seems the princess is quite fond of that young lady. Wouldn’t that be a happy ending for everyone…"

"I don’t like her."

Bai Qingqing looked up, her eyes full of disbelief. She wasn’t buying it.

In the past life, Fu Yi visited her every month and sometimes even had her help pick out things for women. At first, Bai Qingqing thought they were for her, but later she realized they were for Lu Qingyun.

His feelings for Lu Qingyun had never been hidden, and the princess often sighed with regret, making Bai Qingqing feel unnecessary in the Fu family. If it weren’t for her, Fu Yi would be able to marry the woman he loved and live happily.

This story originates from NovelBin. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

In this life, Bai Qingqing would never interfere with them. Her resentment toward Fu Yi had faded, as it was her fault he couldn’t be with the one he loved. He resented her for it, and it was understandable that he didn’t help the Bai family when they were in danger.

Fu Yi blamed himself for not being able to express himself, but no matter how much he explained, Bai Qingqing wouldn’t believe him. When she got annoyed, she would sarcastically tell him he dared to do things but not own up to them. But what exactly had he done?

"Are you still looking? If not, let’s head back. We’ve been out long enough."

Bai Qingqing stood up, took a few steps forward, then stopped and tilted her head to look at him. "Although this might sound a bit abrupt, I sincerely wish you a future with the one you love, free of regrets."

And please, don’t cause harm to anyone else.

...

The two of them walked back to the flower hall, Bai Qingqing calmly joining Mrs. Qiao’s side without a hint of discomfort, let alone shyness.

The princess attempted to ask her something, and Bai Qingqing answered openly, without any hint of affection between her and Fu Yi.

The princess felt dissatisfied. Before leaving, she gave Mrs. Qiao a meaningful look and patted her hand intimately. "Think about my words. Don’t let fate pass you by."

Mrs. Qiao hid her awkwardness well, personally sending the guests out. As soon as the door closed, her polite smile immediately vanished, and she rubbed her face. "That smile’s making me tired."

Bai Qingqing thoughtfully went behind her and massaged her shoulders. "Mother, you’ve worked hard."

"You’re right, I knew it! The princess sent Yao Yao away as soon as you two left, and subtly mentioned your marriage. Her words were just like I guessed."

Bai Qingqing’s grip tightened slightly, her brows furrowing without Mrs. Qiao noticing. "What did you say to her?"

"I told her you’re still young, with a temper, and not yet ready to meet suitors. Heh, she went on and on about how wonderful her son is, making it sound like it would be such a huge blessing for our family if he liked you. My daughter’s not bad either, so I just politely responded. But she got all flustered, saying your temper won’t matter, and once you’re married, she’ll help ‘train’ you."

This made Mrs. Qiao furious. Qingqing was so sensible and thoughtful—how could she suggest ‘training’ her?