Chapter 355: Time to Arrange a Marriage

The Guardian Lady said in surprise, "It’s you? Didn’t you just say you were the owner of the silver building?"

Gu Fei lowered her eyes. "Yes."

Just as the Guardian Lady was about to say something, Qin Ying suddenly stood up, her face clearly showing her discontent. "Guardian Lady, I wonder if I might be allowed a look at the two poetry manuscripts."

The Guardian Lady nodded slightly, and a maid brought the two manuscripts over to her.

Qin Ying quickly scanned Gu Fei’s manuscript, and her face suddenly went pale.

’After reading Gu Fei’s poem, I can’t possibly claim my own work is superior.’

’No, in fact, it’s inferior.’

’The masters only chose my manuscript because my grandfather is the Mountain Master of the academy.’

’I had always thought that while I might be slightly inferior to Gu Fei in looks, my greatest pride was my scholarly talent. I never imagined that even in that, I am no match for her!’

Qin Ying returned the manuscript to the maid and sat down, dejected.

The Princess Consort beckoned to the maid. "Give that manuscript to me. I am quite fond of this poem. I’ll take it back with me to appreciate at my leisure."

Shen Qingluan, sitting one seat away, heard the Princess Consort’s words, and for a moment her face twisted. ’Does the Princess Consort know about the connection between the Young Master Heir and Gu Fei, or is she completely clueless and just genuinely likes the poem?’

’I saw the poem earlier and didn’t think it was anything special.’

Gu Fei herself felt an indescribable mix of emotions. The Princess Consort’s attitude was a world away from the other day. From the moment she arrived, it felt like the Princess Consort was trying to show her goodwill.

This was a truly strange affair.

Two maids came over, each holding a box.

The noble ladies all looked over. A mere merchant’s daughter was not only outstandingly beautiful but had also won first place in the poetry competition. Where did that leave their pride?

And when they thought of that dazzling golden phoenix hairpin, they all felt a pang.

Gu Fei accepted the two boxes and curtsied toward the head of the hall. "Thank you, Guardian Lady and Miss Shen, for the prizes."

"I was fortunate to be able to attend the poetry gathering today, but I must return to my shop. Please allow me to take my leave."

The Guardian Lady waved a hand. "How remarkable. You’re a merchant’s daughter, busy with a business, yet you can still write such fine poetry. You may go."

Shen Qingluan, at her side, let out a soft snort. ’Not only have I lost a golden phoenix hairpin today, but I’ve also failed to put this little vixen in her place.’

’But there’s no opportunity to do so now; I can only let her go.’

Gu Fei walked out, holding the two boxes.

Seeing this, Su Chen quickly followed her out.

Qin Ying watched from afar, but her view was clear. Her heart sank even further.

Su Chen caught up to Gu Fei in a few steps and reached out to take the things from her hands. "Miss Gu, let me carry those for you."

Gu Fei was pleasantly surprised to see Su Chen; it was good to finally see a familiar face. "What are you doing here?"

Su Chen stole a glance at her. ’She’s so beautiful.’ His heart pounded wildly, and a faint blush appeared on his face. "I came with my teacher."

He paused, then added, "I read your poem. It was very well written."

Gu Fei felt a little embarrassed and changed the subject. "The poetry gathering isn’t over yet, is it? Is it alright for you to just leave like this?"

Su Chen smiled. "It’s no problem. I’ll walk you to the garden gate. I’ll head back after I see you off in a carriage."

Gu Fei was in a hurry to get back to her shop, so she walked quickly. The flower hall wasn’t far from the garden gate to begin with. Once they were outside, Su Chen hailed a carriage. He watched Gu Fei get in and ride away, then stood there staring blankly for a long while before finally turning back.

Back in the flower hall, the Guardian Lady began her nth attempt at dropping hints for the day.

"My Qingluan will soon be eighteen. Though I’m reluctant to see her married off, a girl must marry when she comes of age. *Sigh*... even if I’m reluctant, I have to let her go."

"I recall the Princely Heir is also nearly twenty, isn’t he? It’s about time to discuss his marriage."