Chapter 35 - 23: The Blind-Eyed but Clear-Hearted Marquis
"Why is that?" Commandery Princess Yong’an felt relieved upon hearing Xiao Anning speak this way.
"I just don’t want to hold up anyone. If she’s unwilling, she should speak up earlier. That way, we can resolve the matter properly. We’re already engaged, and if we are to break it off, whether they propose it or we do, it would tarnish Miss Ji’s reputation. So truly, if we need to annul the engagement, we must come up with the best possible solution." Xiao Anning said solemnly.
"My son is indeed so kind-hearted. Whoever marries you will truly be blessed." Commandery Princess Yong’an sighed gently; her son’s kindness is naturally a good thing, but she feared he might be hurt because of such kindness.
"That’s why I think Mother should ask Miss Ji about her own wishes." Xiao Anning suggested.
"Alright, I will ask her myself. After all, I’m not too trusting of the Prime Minister." Commandery Princess Yong’an pondered and made this decision. She had a good impression of Ji Liruo. The Empress praised her for being gentle, graceful, and sensible, but Commandery Princess Yong’an valued her kindness and tenderness more. Ning’er’s temperament does indeed require a gentle yet assertive woman to accompany him. Among all the noble young ladies in the Capital City, Ji Liruo was the most suitable choice.
Xiao Anning felt relieved upon hearing his mother speak this way.
Commandery Princess Yong’an quickly came up with a plan: "Let’s do this, in a few days, I’ll invite Ji Liruo and her mother to Xuanling Temple outside the city to offer incense and prayers. I will ask her personally."
Xuanling Temple is the most famous nun temple in the Capital City. Many female relatives from prestigious families like to go there to offer incense and prayers. The host is a nun with profound virtue; even the former Empress Dowager liked to hear her preach. Thus, it is no surprise that the host enjoys high prestige among noble families.
Two days later, Commandery Princess Yong’an left for Xuanling Temple early in the morning, while Xiao Anning continued to accompany Tianmiao around the Capital City, buying various delicious foods and luxurious clothes.
At midday, Xiao Anning and Tianmiao were preparing to dine at Taotie Building when the noise outside suddenly became loud.
"What’s the matter?" Xiao Anning asked.
"It’s Miss Ji’s maid, saying she has an important matter to report." The guard outside answered.
"Let her in." Xiao Anning was somewhat perplexed as to why Ji Liruo’s maid would come to him.
"Little Marquis." The maid, looking anxious, entered and first paid her respects before speaking, "The Commandery Princess has twisted her ankle but is afraid of worrying you, so she didn’t send anyone back to report to you. Miss Ji is concerned that this delay might worsen the Commandery Princess’s injury, so she sent me back to inform the Little Marquis, hoping you would persuade the Commandery Princess to return to the manor quickly to seek treatment from the Imperial Physician..."
"What?!" Xiao Anning exclaimed as he stood up abruptly. Knowing his mother’s disposition, she would indeed act in such a manner. She wouldn’t want him to worry, so she wouldn’t mention her injury. He didn’t know how severe his mother’s sprain was.
"Given the circumstances, you should hurry and go check on her." Tianmiao, remaining calm and composed, said this without even glancing at the maid who was secretly sneaking glances at her from the side.
"Alright, then my apologies, Miss Tian. I’ll accompany you after I return." Xiao Anning hurriedly left, taking the guard with him as he rushed to Xuanling Temple outside the city.
The maid also quietly withdrew.
The private room was left with only Tianmiao seated alone, while Kong Hou and Dong Xiao stepped forward to serve Tianmiao dishes.
Kong Hou looked at Tianmiao eagerly, full of curiosity, which made Tianmiao laugh.
"Just ask what you want to ask." Tianmiao said helplessly as she ate a piece of roast duck, "Your eyes are practically popping out."