Qin Jiuxiao's words sent ripples through Dugu Yan's heart.
She fell silent for a long time and did not press the matter further.
Yet a closer look revealed that her once-bright eyes had dimmed, and her slender fingers were trembling slightly.
Clearly, she believed Qin Jiuxiao's words.
As a close friend who had grown up with her, Ye Lingling naturally saw the unease and worry in Dugu Yan's heart.
She gently took Dugu Yan's hand and said softly, "Yanzi, since Young Master Qin has made it so clear, and Grandpa Dugu thinks so highly of him, then he must have a way to cure it. Don't worry too much."
Hearing her good sister's comfort, Dugu Yan raised her head. She first looked at Ye Lingling's gentle face, then turned to Qin Jiuxiao. Only then did she force out a faint smile and nod lightly.
"Mm, I understand."
The moment Ye Lingling spoke, Qin Jiuxiao's gaze naturally fell upon her.
Ever since she had entered, this girl had quietly sat to the side, almost without any presence at all.
But upon closer inspection, one would find that her temperament was quite special. She was like a clear spring, like a breeze brushing one's face in spring, giving others the feeling of gentle water and a warm spring wind.
Most rare of all, her eyes were crystal clear, without the slightest impurity. Yet beneath that purity lay a faint but unyielding resilience.
When she saw Qin Jiuxiao looking at her, Ye Lingling took a deep breath and slowly rose to her feet.
Under everyone's gaze, she made a move none of those present had expected.
She bowed deeply to Qin Jiuxiao.
This was an extremely formal gesture, one used only when facing elders or people held in the highest esteem.
At once,