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Chapter 1095: Old Friend

The prince’s mansion boasted a side yard that befitted the grandeur of the royal family. The meticulous sutras and the work of skilled craftsmen exuded elegance, setting it apart from any other place. Despite the arrival of autumn, the garden remained vibrant, devoid of any signs of melancholy.

Sweet osmanthus, autumn hibiscus, rhododendron, camellia, jasmine, and a variety of chrysanthemums adorned the autumnal landscape. Splashes of bright colors from the big red oranges and golden and yellow leaves delighted the eyes of onlookers.

As they strolled towards the autumn house, the eunuch led Qiao Xuan through the exquisite surroundings. Qiao Xuan followed along with a smile, harboring no concerns about the eunuch’s intentions. They served as her trusted eyes and ears, instilling a sense of fearlessness within her.

However, Qiao Xuan found herself unexpectedly encountering a familiar face in this place.

Her heart skipped a beat as she laid eyes on a stunning woman, adorned with intricate makeup, a stylish hairstyle, and embellished with gold hairpins and pearls. The lady donned a finely embroidered yellow palace dress, radiating an air of familiarity that Qiao Xuan struggled to place.

The beauty smiled warmly at her and addressed her as “Mrs. Shao.” Recognition flooded Qiao Xuan’s mind, and she struggled to maintain her composure.

It was He Zhiqing.

The cousin from the Xie Family, who had once attempted to seduce Xie Jingrong with Taotao, now held the title of Madame in the Fourth Prince’s mansion.

The eunuch respectfully greeted He Zhiqing, prompting Qiao Xuan to bow in deference, saying, “Good day, Madame He!”

The Fourth Prince had a Prince Consort named Ms. Dou, as well as a Secondary Concubine, Ms. Shi. He Zhiqing had become one of the concubines.

The eunuch displayed an evident reverence towards her, solidifying Qiao Xuan’s belief that the Fourth Prince held her in high regard.

He Zhiqing’s smile widened as she clasped Qiao Xuan’s hands and spoke, “Mrs. Shao, your kindness knows no bounds. We are old friends; there’s no need for such formality.”

Qiao Xuan pondered silently to herself – the Xie Family had proven to be remarkably resourceful. Without their influence, He Zhiqing wouldn’t have gained entry into the Fourth Prince’s mansion so swiftly. However, during her time in the capital with Shao Yunduan, Xie Jingrong had kept her unaware of these developments. It became evident that something unpleasant had transpired between He Zhiqing and the Xie Family.

Qiao Xuan was cautious about getting too close to He Zhiqing. She couldn’t quite gauge the depths of He Zhiqing’s character, but she sensed a shrewdness about her. It was wiser to keep her distance from a cunning individual without a kind heart.

Withdrawing her hands, Qiao Xuan took a few steps back and maintained a composed expression. “Madame He, you must be jesting. I am not fortunate enough to be considered your old friend. You overestimate my importance. I am here at the Xie Family’s behest, and our paths have merely crossed by chance.”

Unsure of He Zhiqing’s sudden attempt at closeness, Qiao Xuan decided to steer the conversation away from that topic.

He Zhiqing was taken aback. She hadn’t anticipated Mrs. Shao’s rejection of her goodwill. Concealing her irritation, the warmth faded from her expression, and she chuckled softly behind her handkerchief, adopting a coquettish tone. “Mrs. Shao is truly straightforward. We coincidentally bumped into each other in the capital, which is a rare occurrence. We should enjoy this opportunity as old friends and explore together!”

“Yes, Madame He,” Qiao Xuan replied, offering a polite smile and refraining from declining the invitation.

Walking side by side, He Zhiqing maintained her smile, commenting on the blossoming flowers and the splendid scenery. However, her composure seemed slightly rattled compared to before.