Arc 2: Part 13
Little Thirteen shook his head with a bitter expression.
"Sir, as you know, everyone at the court is annoyed by the idea of hosting this prince. As soon as they heard he's coming, the people from the Duke of Enguo immediately gave up their Minister of Rites position, passing the responsibility on to you, hoping you'll be troubled."
"Let him come; I'd like to see how difficult he can be to serve!"
A cold light flashed through Xiao Lingchen's eyes, his murderous intent rising.
"It seems my recent inactivity has convinced people that I've become compassionate and devout. Who knew the Duke of Enguo would dare to manipulate me in such a small matter! Wasn't his nephew recently caught embezzling funds, intending to build a new government school, which led to a collapse and the death of students? Issue an order to the Ministry of Punishments, have them investigate it thoroughly. Life for a life, show no mercy!"
Xiao Lingchen dealt with official business for the entire morning. It wasn't until Little Thirteen gently reminded him that he realized it was already noon.
Unaware of the passing time and being busy for so long, he still felt refreshed and full of energy.
Xiao Lingchen was surprised at first but then realized that his previous fatigue was due to his disgust for food and a weak body.
Having enjoyed a sumptuous meal with nourishing ingredients this morning, he naturally felt energetic.
"Go to the small kitchen and bring something to eat."
For the first time, Xiao Lingchen felt eager about his lunch and took the initiative to ask someone to fetch his meal from the small kitchen.
Ignoring Little Thirteen's excited expression, Xiao Lingchen left the room and went outside for a leisurely walk.
He didn't have a specific destination in mind; he was just strolling around. Yet, somehow, he found himself near the small kitchen.
There were two kitchens in the Xiao Taifu, one big and one small.
The big kitchen was responsible for preparing meals for the entire residence, from people like Little Thirteen and Xiao Qingwan to the servants and guards. The only difference was the quality and variety of ingredients and the taste of the dishes.
The small kitchen, on the other hand, was specifically for preparing Xiao Lingchen's meals.
Even if the cook was Xiao Qingwan herself, she couldn't use this kitchen for her own meals.
Xiao Lingchen stood half a courtyard away from the small kitchen, gazing through the faint outline of a cloister. Thin wisps of smoke and enticing fragrances drifted towards him.
At first, he was taken aback, but then he couldn't help but find his situation amusing.
Xiao Lingchen wasn't sure why he wandered here, but he even had an impulse to meet the person who prepared that delectable meal.
However, as he looked up at the bustling servants near the kitchen entrance, he shook his head and dismissed the thought.
Was it possible that his opinion of Xiao Qingwan had changed just because of this one breakfast?
No way!
Xiao Lingchen had no affection for Xiao Qingwan whatsoever.
He had seen her a few times, but it was always when she had forcibly sought out his audience.
Carrying a food box filled with soup, she would say, "I'm worried about brother's health, so I specifically prepared a nourishing soup to help strengthen your body," her eyes continually scanning around his study.
She'd even pretentiously say things like, "I heard that the Jewel Pavilion received a new batch of exquisite jade pieces. Should I pick one out to give as a gift to brother?"
Her sweet words were in stark contrast with her overly eager and obsequious demeanor, and the eyeing desire within her eyes, which was nauseating to witness.
Fishing for compliments under the pretense of goodwill!
If he didn't still need something from her, Xiao Lingchen wouldn't want to see her at all.
The elaborate presentation and delicious meals during this morning's breakfast must have been prepared by someone sincere and authentic.
This and Xiao Qingwan are completely different…
Just as Xiao Lingchen was preparing to turn around and leave, he looked up and saw a young girl with a cold face leaving the kitchen.
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