"Sister-in-law, now that you've joined the household, you should be more welcoming. Go keep your sister-in-law company and tell her about things in the manor. Also, if she wants to know about A-nian, you can tell her too," Gu Siya said slowly. "Don't neglect your sister-in-law, making her feel like we don't take her seriously."
Lin Fangruo nodded, understanding Gu Siya's meaning.
The next day, after Qi Zhenzhen and Gu Sinian had finished their meal, Chunfeng came in to report that Lin Fangruo had arrived.
Gu Sinian frowned. "What does she want?"
"No matter what, she lives in the same manor now. If she comes to visit, we can't refuse her entry. Chunfeng, is the eldest young madam alone?" Qi Zhenzhen asked.
"Yes, she is alone."
Qi Zhenzhen stood up and adjusted Gu Sinian's clothes. "Since Eldest Sister-in-law is here alone, it might be inconvenient for you to stay. Will you go to the inner room or the study in the front courtyard?"
Going to the inner room would mean overhearing their conversation, which felt rather clandestine. Gu Sinian thought for a moment. "I'll go to the study. Eldest Sister-in-law, as for her..."
Gu Sinian couldn't find suitable words to describe her. "How should I put it? Just remember, we are not of the same kind. Whatever she says or does, just listen and watch."
On their wedding day, Lin Fangruo's ambiguous words spoken in front of her had already placed her in the category of people she couldn't befriend deeply.
"Don't worry," Qi Zhenzhen smiled. "Do I look foolish?"
As Gu Sinian left, he bumped into Lin Fangruo. He merely nodded at her and called out "Eldest Sister-in-law" before walking away. Lin Fangruo paused, watching his retreating figure. His appearance and physique, Ah Ya truly couldn't compare to Gu Sinian. The title of the most handsome man was indeed well-deserved. It was a pity, though, that despite his good looks, his character was something to be desired. How could such a fine man go against the natural order of yin and yang?
"Why isn't Eldest Sister-in-law coming in?" Qi Zhenzhen beckoned Lin Fangruo. "What are you staring at so intently?"
Lin Fangruo withdrew her gaze from Gu Sinian's back and smiled. "I was just looking at A-nian's face, full of joy and pride. I've never seen him like this before, and I was momentarily stunned. It seems A-nian is very pleased with his sister-in-law."
Qi Zhenzhen covered her mouth and laughed heartily. "I don't know if A-nian is pleased with me, but I am extremely pleased with him. Not only is he handsome, but he's also very thoughtful. Take this breakfast, for example; everything prepared is what I love to eat. It turns out he asked someone close to me in advance about my preferences. Also, Eldest Sister-in-law, what do you think of my eyebrows?"
Qi Zhenzhen observed Lin Fangruo's expression as she continued coyly, "A-nian also helped me draw these eyebrows. Although he's a bit clumsy, I think they have a unique charm. What do you think, Eldest Sister-in-law?"
Lin Fangruo felt a surge of anger welling up inside her, yet she couldn't show any displeasure on her face. She smiled generously and gracefully. "This is the first time I've seen this side of A-nian. He's quite skilled at making young ladies happy."
"Eldest Sister-in-law, that's not quite right. A-nian isn't trying to make any young lady happy; he's trying to please his wife," Qi Zhenzhen corrected.
"Yes, yes, yes, you are married now." Lin Fangruo put on an expression of having misspoke, but inwardly she mused, it must be quite difficult for Qi Zhenzhen to maintain this facade of marital bliss by fabricating such lies. After all, everyone knew Gu Sinian preferred male companions and favored men. The more she tried to cover it up, the more of a laughingstock she became.
"Let's not talk about that. Eldest Sister-in-law, did you come to see me about something specific?" Qi Zhenzhen asked.