Sunlight filtered through the carved window lattice, casting a soft glow over Miss Jiang’s vanity set, the gilded rouge box shimmering gently. She sat before the bronze mirror, carefully tracing the shape of her brows with calm, steady fingers. Her maid, Qiaoyun, entered holding a pale pink ru-qun, her face etched with worry. "Miss, are you truly going to this poetry gathering? It’s clear those people intend to make things difficult for you."
Miss Jiang set down her eyebrow pencil and a faint smile touched the corners of her lips. "Why shouldn't I go? The more they act this way, the more I must go and confront them." She took the garment and allowed Qiaoyun to help her dress. The fabric clung softly to her skin, the embroidered magnolia patterns swaying slightly with her every move.
The carriage rolled through the streets of the Capital, the wheels clicking rhythmically against the flagstones. Through the window, Miss Jiang watched the bustling crowds, her mind a swirl of thoughts. Since the rumors had been cleared, many people’s attitudes toward her had shifted, but with Jiang Rou working behind the scenes, there were still many noble young ladies who met her with icy indifference. This poetry gathering was her chance to break the stalemate; she could not afford to miss it.
Chapter 56