Blind Date

After spending so much time with the people of Golden Jade Pavilion, I’d grown familiar with them. Aunt Jin used to nag me about finding a woman to settle down with, saying that the pavilion needed a mistress. It wasn’t until Qinglan saw something that frightened her and secretly told Aunt Jin that I realized the reason behind it.

After the pavilion opened, I had Uncle Jin purchase a few maidservants. I discreetly inquired and discovered that they actually knew nothing; there were no rumors outside about me being of that inclination. It seemed only Aunt Jin and Qinglan knew the truth, so I had nothing to worry about. If the world did start gossiping that I favored men, it wouldn’t matter. I’ve always liked men, but I couldn’t truly be called one of “the cut sleeve,” though perhaps only I and Li Yexuan know this for certain.

Since that chaotic day, I haven’t seen Li Yexuan for some time—not because I miss him, but rather because I find him so infuriating that his absence brings me peace.

As the saying goes, tranquility is a blessing, peace is a blessing. Each day, I watched different people come to Golden Jade Pavilion to buy jewelry, counted my silver, checked the ledger—it was indeed a comfortable, enjoyable life.

Counting the banknotes in my hand, I already had a substantial sum. The pavilion had been open for over a month. I distributed silver to each of the staff, even added a little extra, and they all happily called me a good master. I planned to repay Yonghe Bank soon, and would also send Li Yexuan a share of the interest. Since it was his bank after all, it would be convenient to give it to him together, saving us an awkward meeting.

Last time, it was fortunate only my own people saw; if more had witnessed it, both our reputations would have been utterly ruined.

Straightening my clothes, carrying a few gifts in hand, I was ready to set out. I’d grown used to coming and going alone, never comfortable with a maid or attendant by my side. Though I was once a princess, then a maidservant, now even if I returned to being a mistress with servants, it would feel unnatural. Perhaps I simply don’t know how to enjoy luxury—born a princess, with the heart of a servant.

Just as I was about to step out, Aunt Jin arrived.

“Aunt Jin, what brings you here?”

“My dear, come quickly and have a look.”

“What is it?”

Aunt Jin carried a stack of scrolls, placing them on the table, where she noticed the gifts I’d prepared.

“Are you heading out?”

“It’s nothing, go ahead.”

“Take a look, please,” Aunt Jin said, spreading out several scrolls.

They were all portraits of girls around thirteen or fourteen.

... Was she planning a matchmaking session for me?

“These are portraits I got from Matchmaker Wang. Each one is a beauty. You, my dear, are handsome yourself, so you shouldn’t settle for less. They’re not daughters of high officials, but all good girls from respectable families.”

A casual glance confirmed they were indeed fine girls.

“My dear, look—do any appeal to you?” Seeing I didn’t move to inspect them, she simply waved them right before my eyes.

“Aunt Jin, take them back. I’m not interested.”

“How can you not talk about marriage?” She laughed, a little awkwardly.

“I’m still young, and I don’t want to think about it now. Don’t worry, Aunt Jin, I won’t do anything improper. Save these for Jin Hu to look at—I have no use for them. I’ve arranged a meeting at the bank; I must go.”

That settled her worries, and she nodded quickly, agreeing.

On the way to Yonghe Bank, I cursed Li Yexuan yet again. It’s all his fault, always bringing me nothing but trouble.