Chun Xi took the two plates of pastries away.
Shen Mingzhu felt a surge of acid in her heart at the thought of Shen Chuwei having attended to the Crown Prince last night. What right did a country-born illegitimate daughter have to compete with her for affection? She certainly didn't deserve the Crown Prince's favor.
Hugging a cat-shaped pillow, Shen Chuwei looked out the window, where beside the tree, a sapling had sprouted new tender leaves.
They have trees now. Why not plant some flowers?
Sitting stiffly with a bit of embarrassment, Shen Mingzhu took an exquisite box from Qiuju's hands and opened it in front of Shen Chuwei.
"I came today especially to congratulate my sister. This is a gift I've prepared for you."
Inside was a gold bracelet inlaid with rubies, commonly known as "pigeon's blood," a very rare quality.
Shen Chuwei gave the ruby gold bracelet a faint glance, picked it up to examine for a moment, then put it back.
"Thank you for the gift, Sister."