The maid led him through countless twists and turns, until Song Qingshu began to wonder whether a trap awaited him ahead. Still, they had not gone into any secluded alleys along the way. Surely no one would be foolish enough to set a trap in such a crowded place.
After a while, Song Qingshu followed the maid to a teahouse by the river. With its little bridges, flowing water, and drooping willows, it was indeed quiet and elegant.
"Young Master, Madam is waiting for you in a private room upstairs." The maid made another inviting gesture.
Song Qingshu grew even more curious, but he was not so dazzled by beauty that he lost his head. Rather than going upstairs directly, he stood where he was and quietly sensed his surroundings. Only after extending his awareness dozens of yards outward and finding no ambush did he smile at the maid and follow her upstairs.
The maid led him to a private room overlooking the river. "Young Master, please!"
Song Qingshu nodded and pushed open the door. A plainly dressed, dignified, quiet young married woman sat by the window in a daze. Hearing the sound, she turned around. The moment she saw him, a hint of delight appeared on her face. "Young Master Song~"
Song Qingshu had already recognized her as Li Wan, the Eldest Young Mistress of the Jia Mansion. He could not help but smile wryly. "Madam certainly made this mysterious enough."
Li Wan slightly bent her knees in greeting, her eyes carrying a trace of apology. "My status makes things inconvenient. I troubled you to make a special trip here, Young Master. I hope you will forgive me."
"I understand, I understand. Meeting a beauty like Madam, how could that possibly count as trouble?" Song Qingshu smiled. Li Wan