The Battle of the Noble Ladies (Book 2)

Chapter 148 - Seeking Favor

Shen Huiyi considered herself quite adept at reading people's expressions, as long as she wanted to. As the least favored and valued third child, she had always timidly followed behind her older sister and brother.

The eldest sister was the first child, so most of Lady He's attention and energy were directed at her. As for her brother, it went without saying—he was the long-awaited legitimate son Lady He had hoped for over the years, cherished like a jewel in her eye. Only she was left, born without expectations, while her father's attention was also focused on an older son from a concubine. No one had their gaze set on her. From a young age, she learned to read everyone's expressions and adjust her behavior accordingly.

Like now, she noticed that Song Chuyi seemed interested in the topic of Chen Mingyu, so her smile grew deeper, and she breathed a sigh of relief, her tone lightening as she spoke, "Elder Sister Chen said that even though it's been three or four years since the last spring hunt, she doesn't feel regretful at all. She was too young back then to truly enjoy it. This time, she's determined to hunt a fox."

Shen Huiyi didn't find Song Chuyi's interest in Chen Mingyu strange; she, too, found Chen Mingyu easy to get along with and quite likable. Once, after Lady He had scolded her, it was Chen Mingyu who patiently comforted her, saying, "Your mother isn't completely wrong. If Sixth Sister truly becomes your sister-in-law, it can only benefit you without causing harm. Think about it—her family is influential, and she'll bring plenty of dowry. Since time immemorial, sisters-in-law have always strived to get along. If she marries into your family, won't she be kind and close to you? Even if you marry out, you'll likely receive double the usual wedding gifts. Isn't that a good thing? If it were me, I'd also want such a sister-in-law."

Shen Huiyi knew that Chen Mingyu's last words were sincere. Over the years, she had come to realize that even someone as seemingly perfect as Chen Mingyu had her grievances. Chen Mingyu's troubles stemmed from her mother and her brother's family. The Chen family had somehow ended up with such a daughter-in-law, who clung to money tightly, causing numerous lawsuits...

Now the Chen family constantly argued about money, dragging Chen Mingyu into disputes between her mother and her brother. It was even rumored that her sister-in-law suspected her of tricking her mother-in-law out of money and almost attacked her...

Shen Huiyi wanted none of that life. Finding a good sister-in-law and maintaining a good relationship was essential. She once thought that person could never be Sixth Miss Song.

But reality has a way of proving people wrong. The incident of Shen Qingrang delivering the kite ended up backfiring when Lady He, who usually spoiled him, didn't comfort him. Instead, she reprimanded him, saying his attitude was too arrogant and that he needed to learn how to coax girls, holding him in conversation all afternoon.

Realizing her family's decision was irreversible and influenced by others' encouragement, Shen Huiyi now sincerely gave Song Chuyi a sweet smile. "Next time we go, why don't you come along, Sixth Sister?"

At that moment, Fenyi entered and curtsied lightly to Song Chuyi, who seized the chance to excuse herself. She couldn't quite get used to Shen Huiyi's overly friendly demeanor today. Once she reached the corner, she lowered her voice to ask Fenyi, "What is it?"

Fenyi's expression became hesitant, and she lowered her voice as well, replying, "Second Master just sent word, asking you to visit him in his study."

Song Yi was a sensitive person, easily offended and prone to hold grudges when embarrassed. A slight expression of discontent from her would usually keep him distant and silent for some time. But this year was different; his skin seemed to have thickened.

Song Chuyi glanced down at the edge of her skirt and sighed lightly, saying she understood, then instructed Fenyi, "Go to the side room and fetch my maid."

Luyi's eyes widened upon hearing that Song Yi had summoned her to the study. She blinked in confusion, asking, "Is Second Master too idle lately? He's never called on you this frequently."

Song Yi's study was located in the Second Residence's main courtyard, and Song Chuyi hadn't visited it in a long time. Song Yi was often plagued by guilt, so she didn't bother with the usual courtesies. When he excused her from morning and evening greetings, she happily took the opportunity to relax.

Despite mentally preparing herself, she hadn't expected that Song Yi had called her to meet someone familiar—Shen Qingrang, the very person she'd told Song Yi just days ago she had no desire to be near.

Shen Qingrang sat properly in an armchair across from the long table, rising with a smile upon seeing her, greeting her cheerfully. Though not one to endure grievances easily, he had been forced to lower his head before her repeatedly, a flash of discomfort in his gaze. Yet, he wasn't the same arrogant heir as before and quickly composed himself, retaining his courteous and refined demeanor.

Song Yi, adopting a fatherly tone in front of Shen Qingrang, covered his mouth as he coughed a few times, then asked, "Have you been to Ningde Courtyard?"

Understanding that family issues were best kept private, Song Chuyi lowered her gaze, nodding in response without another word.

Song Yi couldn't help but recall her previous words about self-respect and propriety, which left him somewhat embarrassed. Yet, he felt he truly had her best interests at heart. After all, as the eldest daughter of a deceased mother, no amount of Old Lady's upbringing could shield her from gossip. The prospect of marriage with the heir apparent from Duke Ying's household—someone she'd known since childhood—was an ideal match.

"Xiao Qi asked to borrow a bow, and I recall that bow is kept with you," Song Yi said, struggling to remember the last time he saw genuine happiness in Song Chuyi's eyes directed toward him. Pausing, he continued, "He'll need it for the spring hunt. You, as a young lady, have no use for it. Why not lend it to him?"

Shen Qingrang promptly joined in, saying, "I've heard that Second Lady has a bow crafted by Master Xun himself, said to be unmatched in the world. I've long wanted to see it. Sixth Sister, why not be generous and lend it to me? I promise I'll hunt a few rabbits for you during the spring hunt."

Neither of them even asked if she was willing; they simply made the decision for her.