The Old Lady

As they stepped into the Jade Orchid Pavilion, a sense of solemnity and elegance filled the air. The pavilion was adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful paintings, showcasing the exquisite taste of its occupant, Princess Dowager Xingjuan. Soft sunlight filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow over the surroundings.

A few moments later, a young maid announced the arrival of Princess Dowager Xingjuan, Liu Meifeng, the esteemed matriarch of the family. As the eldest daughter of the previous two generations of emperors, she was a dignified and elegant beauty.

Her charismatic aura immediately radiated as she entered the hall, accompanied by an old maid. Her face lit up with happiness when she saw her beloved granddaughter's arrival.

"Finally, you came, Xiuying. I heard that you returned home early, and I was just about to visit you. I thought you weren't feeling well."

Tan Xiuying bowed in salute, then walked over to her grandmother. "Greetings, Grandma. I came home safely and came here to see you. I've been missing you a lot lately."

Even though feeling very nervous, Tan Xiuying still managed to greet her grandmother with a sweet smile.

Liu Meifeng hugged her beloved granddaughter tightly and tears filled her eyes. "I thought I would never see you again after hearing the shocking news. I miss you too, Xiuying."

Tan Xiuying gave her a hug back and then helped her sit up.

With grace and dignity, Liu Meifeng settled herself on a luxurious silk-covered chair, exuding an aura of authority and wisdom that commanded respect from anyone who entered her presence.

They exchanged pleasantries for a while, and Liu Meifeng suggested, "Why don't you stay here with me until dinner time?"

"Sure, Grandma. I'll stay as long as you like."

Seeing that Liu Meifeng was about to speak, Tan Xiuying quickly poured her a cup of tea and said, "Grandma, in the entire Imperial Capital, everyone knows how generous and kind you are, especially to your children and grandchildren. You're an excellent role model and deserve all the praise."

Liu Meifeng was instantly flattered by her granddaughter's words. Whether they were entirely true or not, one thing was certain – Tan Xiuying had managed to make her puff out her chest with pride.

With a cheerful smile, Liu Meifeng replied, "Indeed, I love and care for each one of you."

With a sweet smile, Tan Xiuying lovingly stroked her grandmother's arm.

"Did you know that yesterday your father, stepmother, two brothers, and sister all went to the capital city?"

Tan Xiuying nodded in agreement. The real Tan Xiuying's impulsive actions had caused chaos in her family.

Tan Xiuying couldn't help but feel a sense of guilt and responsibility for the turmoil her actions had caused. She knew that her reckless mistake had led to her family's trip to the capital city and the current situation they were facing. She wished she could turn back time and undo the consequences of her impulsive decisions.

As she sat there with her grandmother, Tan Xiuying pondered about how she could make things right. She was determined to protect her family and ensure their well-being. She vowed to be more careful and thoughtful in her actions.

Liu Meifeng looked at her granddaughter with affection and concern. "Xiuying, is something bothering you?"

Tan Xiuying hesitated for a moment before opening up to her grandmother about her concerns. She shared her worries about the past and her determination to set things right.

"Grandma, I've been carrying this burden in my heart, and I feel it's time to share it with you. I made some reckless choices in the past, and they've caused a lot of trouble for our family. But I want you to know that I'm determined to set things right. I want to be a better person and make amends for my mistakes."

Liu Meifeng listened attentively and reassured her, "You are still young, my dear. Everyone makes mistakes, but what matters is that you learn from them and grow wiser. I believe in you, and I know you will make our family proud."

"I'm really sorry, Grandma. I understand my mistake now. I don't know what I was thinking, getting involved with a married man, especially someone as important as a king."

"Yeah, it was a big mistake to fall head over heels for him. The worst possibility is that you become his concubine. Do you really want to be his concubine?"

"Of course not, Grandma. I don't want to be anyone's concubine. Every woman's dream is to be the first and only one in a man's heart. I want to live my life with dignity and make my own choices. I won't let anyone use me or take away my freedom."

"Good! I strongly oppose you if you insist on marrying him. After all, Wang Liu Junjie is notorious for being involved in numerous scandals. It will have a negative impact on you, and even more so on your father's reputation. Do you understand?"

"Absolutely, Grandma. I completely understand. I have no intention of marrying him or getting involved in any scandals. I don't want to bring any shame to our family, especially not to my father's reputation."

Liu Meifeng smiled warmly, patting her granddaughter's hand gently. "That's my brave girl. Remember, love should never be a reason to compromise your self-respect and values. You're a strong and intelligent young woman, and I believe you will make the right choices for yourself."

"Yes, Grandma, I understand. I don't want to bring any shame or disgrace to our family. I'll make sure to be careful and steer clear of any more drama with him."

Liu Meifeng smiled warmly at her granddaughter's resolute answer. "That's my girl. Always remember to prioritize your happiness and protect your family's honor. I trust you to make wise choices."

"Young people often glorify love. Love can be blind, and when you're in love, you tend to overlook flaws and forget the bad things. But it's important to remember that love is not just about passion; it's about understanding and acceptance. True love is not blind; it sees both the good and the imperfections in the person you love. It's about cherishing their strengths and supporting them through their weaknesses."

What a lovely family! Tan Xiuying promised herself that she would not repeat the same mistakes as the real Tan Xiuying did. She was determined to protect her family and ensure that no harm would come their way.