NOVPUBXu Zening’s tone softened noticeably. “I’ll stay with you tonight.”
Upon hearing this, Shen Roujia felt a chill run down her spine. Brother, I just want a peaceful night; why are you adding to my troubles?
Shen Roujia sat obediently on the edge of the bed. “Your Highness, you’re busy with state affairs. I’m honored, but you don’t have to…”
Xu Zening waved his hand. “Just sleep. I’ll leave once you’re asleep.”
He walked over to a soft couch on the other side of the room, leaving Shen Roujia confused.
Did he eat something wrong today?
Shen Roujia sneaked a glance at him, just in time to meet his bright eyes.
Xu Zening smiled warmly at her. “Sleep.”
Shen Roujia was immediately filled with awkwardness. How was she supposed to sleep like this?
Xu Zening lay down without changing his expression, not saying another word.
Shen Roujia turned her back to him, her mind buzzing with today’s events.
What on earth was going on?
Unable to shake off her thoughts, she rubbed her palm, feeling a sudden warmth rise from her dantian.
Startled, Shen Roujia stayed silent, afraid Xu Zening would notice.
She clenched her fist slightly. It seemed she really needed to visit the Glamorous Pavilion.
Time passed without her noticing. Even the cat, Xiao Hei, had grown stronger, lazily basking in the sun.
Shen Roujia found another opportunity to sneak out from the North Lake.
She was already adept at these escapes, and this place had become her secret hideout.
Shen Roujia had gathered information on the Glamorous Pavilion’s location. To avoid any mishaps, she first went to the Hidden Pavilion and took Zhang San along for a visit to the Gongyuan.
Afterwards, she leisurely made her way to the most luxurious part of the capital.
Feigning curiosity, Shen Roujia lifted her veil and pointed at a few tall buildings ahead. “Is this a restaurant?”
Zhang San waved his chubby arms and whispered, “This is the largest entertainment house in the capital, the Glamorous Pavilion.”
Shen Roujia raised an eyebrow in interest. “Let’s take a look. We have nothing better to do.”
Zhang San hesitated. “Though the entertainment house welcomes both men and women, the master is still an unmarried lady. Is it appropriate for us to visit such a place?”
Shen Roujia scoffed. “If you don’t tell, no one will know who I am.”
Ignoring Zhang San’s protests, Shen Roujia coldly pursed her lips and strode towards the Glamorous Pavilion.
Two elegant girls greeted her at the entrance. “Are you alone, miss?”
Shen Roujia pointed at Zhang San behind her and said coolly, “I brought a subordinate.”
The two girls exchanged a glance and, judging by Shen Roujia’s tone, guessed she was of noble birth. Their demeanor instantly became more respectful.
“Please follow us to a private room.”
Shen Roujia motioned for Zhang San to follow. “San, this way.”
Zhang San quickly caught up, his plump figure not seeming cumbersome at all.
Originally, Shen Roujia chose him for his simplicity and ease of command, but over time, she realized Zhang San was actually quite shrewd. Having such a talent around was both inconspicuous and reliable.
After ordering a pot of tea, Shen Roujia watched the new song and dance performance and casually asked, “Do you have a girl named Tao Hua here?”
The two serving girls’ faces turned shocked and tense. “What business do you have with her, honored guest?”
