The "long time" Zou Ruoshui mentioned was roughly two years. It had been two years since she last enjoyed favor.
When Zou Ruoshui was favored, the servants in the mansion naturally dared not neglect Ruoshui Pavilion, and any good things were always given to Ruoshui Pavilion first. Later, after Zou Ruoshui fell out of favor, the servants' attitude toward Ruoshui Pavilion took a sharp turn for the worse. Now, even requesting a portion of lamb had become difficult.
Zou Ruoshui hesitated, feeling it might be time to seek Duke Jiang's favor again.
Jiang Xuerong propped her chin on her hand and sighed, thinking longingly of the lamb pancake she wouldn't be able to eat.
Zou Ruoshui snapped back to reality and said, "Never mind, let's have leek dumplings instead."
Jiang Xuerong could only nod in agreement.
Madam Sun was efficient in her work, and the Flower Appreciation Banquet was swiftly organized. She invited many young ladies from the capital, as well as numerous eligible young gentlemen to attend.
Madam Sun was so busy that her mouth felt dry. She put down the guest list in her hand, picked up a white porcelain teacup, took a sip to moisten her throat, and couldn't help but sigh.
Nanny Yang knew what Madam Sun was sighing about and comforted her, saying, "Madam, don't worry. The second young lady is clever and will surely understand your good intentions."
Madam Sun looked up. "I hope she will come to her senses after meeting the heir."
Madam Sun placed such importance on this Flower Appreciation Banquet because she wanted Jiang Sixian to change her mind and meet the heir of the Dingbei Marquis. As for the others, they were merely incidental.
In the blink of an eye, the day of the Flower Appreciation Banquet arrived. The sky was clear, and sunlight streamed in through the latticed windows, scattering what seemed like a floor of golden fragments.
This time, Jiang Xuerong dreamed not of lamb pancakes but of white-cut chicken—tender, delicious, and mouthwatering.
Yin Chan nudged her arm. "Fourth young lady, it's time to get up. Let me help you wash up and dress you beautifully. I'm sure you'll find a perfect husband today."
Jiang Xuerong didn't even open her eyes, turning over to continue sleeping. "What perfect husband? Let me sleep a little longer, dear Yin Chan."
With that, she rolled herself and the blanket toward the inner side of the bed, pressing against the corner, and no matter how Yin Chan called her, she didn't respond.
Yin Chan was both annoyed and amused, shaking her head helplessly.
After much effort, Jiang Xuerong managed to sleep an extra half-hour. This half-hour was taken from her grooming time, so Yin Chan only had time to give her a simple, elegant hairstyle and apply a light layer of powder to her face.
Then, they rushed to the Flower Appreciation Banquet just in time.
Madam Sun was already entertaining the guests. After exchanging pleasantries, she looked up and caught sight of Shen Ze, the heir of the Dingbei Marquis.
"Where is Sixian?" Madam Sun asked the maid beside her. "Go and invite her over. Tell her I need to see her."
The maid acknowledged and left.
Madam Sun looked at Shen Ze's figure, a satisfied smile appearing on her face.
When Jiang Ping and Madam Sun had discussed their daughter's marriage, Madam Sun had also been reluctant at first. After all, she knew of her daughter's obsession with The Crown Prince over the years. As a mother, she hoped her daughter could fulfill her wishes, obtain what she desired, and live happily.
On the other hand, she secretly hoped that The Crown Prince might change his mind and agree to select a consort. With her Sixian's talent and beauty, she would naturally have a great chance of being chosen. If she could become the Crown Princess, and later, when The Crown Prince ascended the throne, her Sixian would be the Empress.
But with The Crown Prince showing no signs of movement and Jiang Sixian growing older by the day, it was no longer wise to delay. This heir of the Dingbeihou, young and accomplished, handsome in appearance, was indeed a good match for Jiang Sixian. Madam Sun was extremely pleased.
By the time Jiang Xuerong arrived, her sisters had already gathered and were chatting idly. They were all aware of Madam Sun’s intention to match Jiang Sixian with Shen Ze today and were gossiping about it.
Jiang Yuehua remarked, "This heir of the Dingbeihou seems quite impressive."
Jiang Lanzhi covered her mouth with a light laugh. "Naturally, or else why would Father consider marrying Second Sister to him?"
Jiang Yuehua glanced in Shen Ze’s direction, a flicker of envy flashing in her eyes. She, too, wished for a favorable marriage.
Shifting her gaze, Jiang Yuehua scanned the crowd of young gentlemen present today, searching for her own target.
But after a quick survey, she concluded that Shen Ze was still the most outstanding among them.
Shen Ze and Jiang Sixian stood by the carved railing, discussing something quietly. Shen Ze wore a faint smile, seemingly quite satisfied with Jiang Sixian. In contrast, Jiang Sixian’s expression was stiff, as if Shen Ze owed her money.
Jiang Sixian’s heart belonged only to The Crown Prince, and she had no desire to marry the heir of the Dingbeihou…
A thought suddenly struck Jiang Yuehua: if that was the case, perhaps she herself had a chance. After all, today was merely an introduction, and nothing had been finalized between Jiang Sixian and Shen Ze.
With this in mind, the corners of her lips curled slightly as she stood up. "I’m going to look at the flowers."
Jiang Lanzhi watched Jiang Yuehua’s retreating figure and scoffed, "Look at flowers? More like looking at people. Ah, Fourth Sister, I’m going to check on them too. Would you like to join me?"
Jiang Xuerong shook her head. "You go ahead. I’ll stay here."
She leaned lazily against the beauty couch, yawning. Compared to sizing up potential suitors, she’d much rather sleep.
It was true that today’s gathering was filled with talented young men, but her reputation for being lazy and indulgent preceded her. Which of these promising gentlemen would even glance her way? Rather than wasting time trying to mingle, she’d much rather sit here idly, resting and snacking on pastries when hungry.
Jiang Xuerong felt no urgency about her own marriage. She was still young and could afford to delay for another couple of years. Even if she dragged it out until it was no longer acceptable, her family would surely step in and arrange a marriage for her.
So what was there to worry about?
Besides, getting engaged would mean she’d have to start learning proper etiquette, and the mere thought of it was exhausting.
With these thoughts, Jiang Xuerong felt perfectly justified in her laziness.
Yin Chan, standing beside her, grew anxious. "Fourth Miss, you should take the initiative, engage with them more, and at least make yourself seen."
Jiang Xuerong shook her head. "Why can’t they come to me instead? Why must I be the one to approach them?"
Yin Chan: "…"
Don’t you know what you’re like?
Shen Ze, facing the indifferent Jiang Sixian, felt a surge of displeasure. He understood the intentions of both families and was reasonably satisfied with Jiang Sixian, which was why he had agreed to meet her. But as the esteemed heir of the Dingbeihou, he was by no means desperate for her hand. Why should he endure her cold demeanor?
Losing patience, Shen Ze withdrew his smile and said, "The flowers over there look quite lovely. Second Miss Jiang, I’ll take my leave now."
Jiang Sixian made no attempt to stop him, as if relieved, and promptly walked away.
Shen Ze watched her retreating figure and let out a cold laugh before turning and leaving in a huff.
Still seething with anger, Shen Ze found the lively chatter in the courtyard grating. His gaze swept the surroundings before he strode purposefully toward the secluded waterside pavilion in the corner.
The pavilion was surrounded by green trees, and it was only when Shen Ze stepped inside that he noticed someone was already there. He hesitated for a moment, about to retreat, when he realized the young woman was asleep with her head resting on the table.
Shen Ze glanced back—there was no quieter place nearby.
He softened his steps and quietly took a seat on the opposite side.
His gaze kept drifting toward the young woman lying on the table.
Her skin was fair, her eyelashes long and thick, fluttering slightly, which piqued Shen Ze's interest.
Jiang Xuerong had just sent Yin Chan to fetch something and couldn't resist taking a short nap herself. She hadn't expected to open her eyes to the sight of an unfamiliar man's face.
Startled, she straightened up from the stone stool, her bright eyes trembling slightly.
To Shen Ze, this only made her appear even more endearing.
The irritation Shen Ze had felt earlier from Jiang Sixian suddenly vanished. He couldn't help but smile and introduced himself, "I am Shen Ze, the heir of the Marquis of Dingbei. May I ask for the young lady's name?"
Jiang Xuerong usually attended some banquets but preferred to stay in the corners, so Shen Ze had never noticed her before.
Jiang Xuerong forced a smile and replied, "My surname is Jiang, and my given name is Xuerong."
Shen Ze's brows furrowed slightly. "Are you Jiang Sixian's younger sister?"
Jiang Xuerong nodded. "She is my second elder sister. I am the fourth in the family."
Shen Ze discreetly observed Jiang Xuerong. Her beauty was no less than Jiang Sixian's, though their styles differed. Jiang Sixian's beauty was more striking and assertive, while Jiang Xuerong's was more delicate and charming. He had heard about the Jiang family's situation—Jiang Sixian was proud and often looked down on her younger half-sisters.
Shen Ze smiled faintly. "Fourth Miss Jiang, you and your second elder sister are truly different."
Jiang Xuerong smiled politely. "I am not even one-tenth as accomplished as my second elder sister."
Shen Ze shook his head. "Fourth Miss Jiang, you are being too modest. While Second Miss Jiang is indeed outstanding, Fourth Miss Jiang is not lacking either."
This was merely polite talk. The gap between her and Jiang Sixian was obvious to anyone with eyes, so Jiang Xuerong could only offer another polite smile.
She didn't understand why Shen Ze was here. Shouldn't he be meeting with her second elder sister at this moment?
Shen Ze showed no intention of leaving, and Jiang Xuerong bit her lip, unsure whether she should go. Just as she hesitated, Yin Chan returned with a plate of pastries.
"Fourth Miss…" As soon as Yin Chan entered the pavilion, she was startled to see Shen Ze.
Jiang Xuerong took the plate of pastries from Yin Chan and said, "This is Lord Shen."
Yin Chan quickly bowed and retreated behind Jiang Xuerong, wondering why Lord Shen was here with the fourth miss.
Jiang Xuerong had thought no one was around and, feeling a sudden craving, had sent Yin Chan to fetch some pastries. But now Shen Ze was here… Jiang Xuerong stared at the pastries, hesitating for a moment. Then she thought, what did it matter if Lord Shen was here? It wasn't as if he would take an interest in her, so why worry?
She reached out, picked up a pastry, and took a bite. Satisfied, she couldn't help but narrow her eyes slightly, like a kitten that had just caught a fish—utterly adorable.
Shen Ze couldn't help but keep his gaze fixed on her.
Noticing his stare, Jiang Xuerong pushed the plate of pastries forward. "Would you like to try one, Lord Shen? These pastries are quite delicious."
Shen Ze didn't refuse. He also took a piece, tasted it, and said, "So Fourth Miss Jiang enjoys pastries of this flavor. The chef in my household makes some very similar ones. If there's a chance, I must have you try them."
Hearing about food, Jiang Xuerong’s eyes lit up: “Really? Then I’ll thank the heir in advance.”
Not far away, Jiang Yuehua watched Jiang Xuerong and Shen Ze chatting happily and stamped her foot in anger. She had been secretly observing earlier and saw Jiang Sixian part ways with Shen Ze on bad terms, so she wanted to hurry over and make an impression in front of Shen Ze. But in the blink of an eye, Shen Ze had disappeared. After searching for a while, she found that Shen Ze was once again with Jiang Xuerong.
That Jiang Xuerong, her methods are quite impressive, pretending on the surface not to fight or compete.
Jiang Yuehua took a deep breath to calm herself, then lifted her skirt and walked into the pavilion: “Fourth Sister, don’t stay here alone. The flowers over there are blooming beautifully.”
After saying this, she seemed to notice Shen Ze sitting nearby and exclaimed in surprise: “Greetings, Heir Shen.”
Shen Ze said: “I was seeking some peace and quiet, but I didn’t expect Fourth Miss Jiang to be here too.”
Jiang Yuehua covered her mouth and chuckled: “Please forgive the embarrassment, Heir Shen. My fourth sister has never been fond of socializing. Since she was little, she’s always liked to slack off. While others were learning things, she would laze around and refuse to learn.”
As she spoke, Jiang Yuehua playfully poked Jiang Xuerong’s head, putting on an act of sisterly affection.
In all her years in the Jiang family, Jiang Xuerong had never witnessed genuine sisterly affection. These people only maintained superficial harmony; once interests were involved, they would always fight and compete. She could already see that Third Sister was deliberately tarnishing her image in front of Heir Shen.
However, she had no interest in Heir Shen. Heir Shen was of noble status and inherently mismatched with her. Moreover, the situation in the Dingbei Marquis’s household was complicated. Even if, by some remote chance, she could marry into it, she wouldn’t want to. It was too troublesome, and she didn’t know how much effort and worry it would bring in the future.
If her image was tarnished, so be it. Jiang Xuerong couldn’t be bothered to argue and simply smiled.
Jiang Yuehua added: “Since Heir Shen is here too, why don’t we go together to see the flowers over there?”
Shen Ze looked at Jiang Xuerong.
Just as Jiang Xuerong was about to refuse, Jiang Yuehua pulled her up without waiting for a response: “Come on, Fourth Sister.”
Jiang Xuerong had no choice but to follow her.
The three of them left the pavilion and walked toward the flower corridor.
Jiang Yuehua linked arms with Jiang Xuerong, walking between Jiang Xuerong and Shen Ze.
At first, Shen Ze would say a few words to Jiang Xuerong, but gradually, Jiang Yuehua took over the conversation. The two of them chatted happily, making Jiang Xuerong seem like an extra.
“I’ve long heard of Heir Shen’s exceptional talent, and seeing you today, it’s truly as rumored,” Jiang Yuehua said delightedly.
Shen Ze had also heard of Jiang Yuehua’s reputation and held her in high regard: “Third Miss Jiang is also exceptionally talented.”
The two of them talked for a long time, only reluctantly parting ways when the banquet ended.
“If there’s a chance next time, I’d like to seek your advice again, Third Miss Jiang.”
“Heir Shen, you flatter me.”
After the Flower Appreciation Banquet ended, Jiang Yuehua immediately let go of Jiang Xuerong’s hand, her smile fading as she said: “I never thought Fourth Sister, who usually keeps quiet, would have such clever schemes. Unfortunately, Heir Shen doesn’t seem to like someone like you, a good-for-nothing.”
Jiang Xuerong thought to herself, what schemes had she been plotting? She had clearly been nothing more than a backdrop the entire time, never saying an extra word.
“Third Sister is right. I am a good-for-nothing. Heir Shen just doesn’t like someone like me, a good-for-nothing.”