Cao Wan'er—the woman who caused her mother's death. Ivy was determined to face her, and not just a simple meeting—she wanted a real confrontation!
"Sheng'er, Mistress Lana Qiu is here to see you!" Suddenly, Xiaoyue came running over with a beaming smile. Who would've thought that Sheng'er could soar so high and become a phoenix among the branches? If they kept serving her, and she really did become a consort one day, would they get to follow her into glory too?!
See? Even someone who just became a Little Mistress came to visit Sheng'er!
Hearing this, Ivy was a little surprised. She hadn't expected Lana Qiu to come looking for her!
"Sheng'er!" As soon as she saw Ivy, Lana Qiu hurried over, calling out warmly.
"Sherry greets Mistress Lana."
"Sheng'er, what are you doing? We're sisters—there's no need to be so formal!" Lana Qiu looked rather unhappy seeing Ivy bow; it felt like she was deliberately keeping their distance.
Ivy smiled slightly. "I know, but it's proper etiquette. Just because we're sisters doesn't mean we can skip it. If someone else saw, they'd gossip for sure." 'Sisters,' huh? Ivy only smiled. Until she could fully trust someone, anyone could be a potential enemy!
"Congratulations, Lana. You've finally become a Little Mistress—your dream came true. Now you just have to wait for the Crown Prince to visit, and you can start climbing the ranks." Ivy watched her closely, probing with her praise.
At those words, a flicker of worry flashed across Lana Qiu's face, but she quickly forced a smile. She waved her maid aside, then grabbed Ivy's hand and pulled her to the side. Glancing around, she made sure no one was watching, then frowned and whispered, "Sheng'er, is it true what they're saying? Did the Crown Prince really fall for you at first sight?"