Taking advantage of the moment when the two sisters were alone, Qiao Lian'er thought of Pei Shijiu's words and asked, "Sister Zhizhi, did the young master of the Lin family show you any special attention? Or is it just like other young ladies and gentlemen from high-ranking families, who are just looking for you to learn about and exchange ideas on painting?"
Qiao Zhizhi showed no embarrassment; she simply and naturally took out a jade pendant from her sleeve.
"This is a jade pendant that Young Master Lin gave me. Lian'er, I am a straightforward person. I admit that I have some feelings for Young Master Lin. He is good in every way. In the past six months, I have not found any fault with his character."
Qiao Lian'er was once again filled with admiration. Qiao Zhizhi's lack of girlish affectation and her generous demeanor truly befitted a renowned figure of her generation.
"So, has he mentioned his family's attitude to you?"
Qiao Zhizhi thought for a moment: "He vaguely hinted that he would ask his parents for permission. Although he didn't say it clearly, I know that it wasn't because he was intentionally being ambiguous or vague. He is a cautious person and doesn't want to make promises to me before things are done."
Seeing Sister Zhizhi's open and trusting attitude, Qiao Lian'er silently prayed for her, hoping that her kind heart would not be let down.
The carriage stopped at the Prince Heng's residence. A considerable number of people had already arrived, and voices could be heard everywhere.
The steward of the Prince's mansion smiled and instructed the servants to move the chest of gifts from the carriage to the backyard.
Nowadays, people are tired of durian, lychee, and nuts, so Qiao Lian'er didn't send those things; she sent all sorts of new things.
People often come to Prince Heng's mansion. Prince Heng is very approachable, and everyone is very easygoing.
Before the grand banquet, people dispersed to various gardens and pavilions, each enjoying their own pleasures.
Some were admiring winter flowers, some were burning incense, and some were drinking tea and playing chess. Looking into the distance, a large group of people were gathered under the corridor, with someone painting in the middle.
Painting has become a major trend in Beijing, especially oil painting. Those who paint well are particularly admired.
"Let's go take a look too." Qiao Lian'er looked towards the corridor. Qiao Zhizhi was quite talented in painting.
In reality, most of the attendees were young men and women from wealthy and influential families. For them, this occasion was more like an excellent opportunity to find their life partner.
Although Qiao Lian'er thought Lin Songyan was a good match, the two families had not yet made a decision. She felt that Qiao Zhizhi could have more options. Marriage is a major life event, and it wouldn't hurt to consider several options.
Qiao Zhizhi was unaware of Qiao Lian'er's thoughts. She went with her and saw a figure under a small pavilion.
Lin Songyan sat there, wearing a light blue cloak with a white fox fur collar, looking elegant and handsome. However, for some reason, there seemed to be a hint of loneliness in his expression.
Beside him was Ouyang Yi, the fifth young master of the Ouyang family, who was also renowned for his talent and handsome appearance.
The two were talking about something, and Lin Songyan's expression grew increasingly grim.
Finally, he slammed the cup on the table with force. Ouyang Yi was stunned for a moment, then waved his hand with a wry smile: "Alright, alright, Brother Lin, let's not talk about things that upset you. Drink your tea."
“I have always believed in Miss Zhizhi and her family. Brother Ouyang, you have always been a fair person. Why are you also making unfounded accusations like others?”
The two sisters heard this and exchanged a glance.
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