NOVPUBThe imperial exams also began on the hottest and most unbearable days of the year, lasting for three days.
In the examination hall, regardless of age, everyone called each other classmates.
Among them was a man wearing a half-mask.
He was small and inconspicuous among the crowd.
Each person was confined to a small room with two sheets of exam paper, which they wrote on for three days.
However, this masked man completed everything in just one day and, under the watchful eyes of many, was escorted out of the examination courtyard.
No one knew where this sudden newcomer came from.
The masked man took a quick turn and quietly boarded a carriage, where a fat man leisurely handed over some tea.
The masked man sighed softly, and a coquettish female voice spoke, “This dreadful weather is truly unbearable.”
Unhurriedly removing the mask, it was none other than Shen Roujia.
She was drenched in sweat, gulping down water. After a moment of relief, she spoke softly, “Zhang San, let’s go back.”
Business at the Merchants’ Guild was booming, and the bookstore even more so. The earlier books had established a reputation, attracting many scholars who, after simple training, began to shine at the Nameless Bookstore.
When Shen Roujia returned to the palace, she unexpectedly ran into someone she hadn’t seen in a long time.
Xiao Sinian.
As a good friend, Shen Roujia’s first rule was to stay away from her sister’s man.
She pretended not to see him and turned to leave, but Xu Ruoru, standing next to Xiao Sinian, called out to her.
“Crown Princess!”
Shen Roujia tugged at the corners of her mouth and instinctively tightened her veil.
“Ruoru, Your Highness, you’re both here.”
Xiao Sinian glanced at Shen Roujia, his gaze deepening.
Xu Ruoru bounced happily, “Crown Princess, His Highness said he’s going to find Fifth Brother. I’m in a hurry to see the National Preceptor. Why don’t we all go together?”
Shen Roujia was about to refuse when Xiao Sinian nodded, “Ruoru, remember to be respectful when you meet the National Preceptor.”
With Xiao Sinian’s implicit approval, Xu Ruoru beamed and bid Shen Roujia goodbye.
Shen Roujia had no choice but to keep a safe distance from Xiao Sinian.
The original novel featured a strong female protagonist, but the male lead was equally formidable. Both main characters were evenly matched.
Gu Zhi was closer to her, so Shen Roujia didn’t feel any discord.
But Xiao Sinian had a natural presence. Standing beside him, Shen Roujia felt the air turn several degrees colder.
Neither spoke, but Xiao Sinian seemed to observe Shen Roujia intentionally or unintentionally.
“Your face, is it still not healed?”
Shen Roujia replied softly, “It’s likely never going to heal.”
Xiao Sinian frowned deeply, “I’ve been looking for a renowned doctor for Anning. If I find one, I’ll have them take a look at you too.”
Shen Roujia thought to herself, how influential does he think I am to owe Xiao Sinian a favor?
“Your Highness, there’s no need to be so courteous.”
Xiao Sinian waved his hand seriously, “After all, you are considered my niece-in-law.” 𝓃𝓸𝓋𝓅𝓾𝒷.𝒸ℴ𝓂
Shen Roujia was instantly speechless and rolled her eyes at him.
“Xiao Sinian, are you doing this on purpose?”
Seeing her angry, Xiao Sinian suddenly found it amusing.
“You’re more pleasing to the eye this way.”
Shen Roujia couldn’t help but roll her eyes again, “I knew you weren’t here for the Crown Prince. So, what’s the matter?”
Xiao Sinian got straight to the point, “I think you’ve changed.”
Shen Roujia took a breath, “Oh, Xiao Sinian, Prince Xiao, are you here to make fun of me?”
