An Invitation in the Rain

The wound on Li Changxi’s face had scarred over. She had to apply a thick layer of powder to hide it, and after being confined to her room for a full month, she had no choice but to leave Twin Moon Pavilion and pay her respects to the Old Madam at Lotus Fragrance Courtyard when the Old Madam asked after her for the fifth time.

As soon as she entered, she heard the Old Madam laughing. “That girl Weiyang is always finding ways to make me happy!”

Li Weiyang wore a pale yellow silk skirt, its collar embroidered with delicate orchid blossoms. Her hair was simply swept up with a single jade hairpin, giving her a fresh, elegant, and gentle appearance. Her smile was especially bright. “Being able to keep you company, Old Madam, is Weiyang’s good fortune.”

The Old Madam laughed and tapped her on the head. Turning to Nanny Luo, she said, “This girl is a little trickster. Her tongue is so sweet!”

Li Changxi was startled. The Old Madam had always been stern and distant from her granddaughters. When had she become so close to Li Weiyang? She didn’t know that for the past month, Li Weiyang had accompanied the Old Madam every day to recite scriptures, drink tea, and chat. By now, everyone knew how fond the Old Madam was of this Third Miss, who had only recently entered the residence.

Just then, a young maid announced that Fifth Miss had arrived. Li Changxi hurried forward and bowed. “Changxi has been ill in bed and unable to come pay her respects. Please forgive me, Old Madam.”

The Old Madam glanced at her and said indifferently, “Rise.”

Li Changxi knew that word of her behavior in the South Courtyard had surely reached the Old Madam’s ears. She immediately grew nervous, stiffening in place without daring to move.

Li Weiyang glanced at the Old Madam’s expression, then came over with a bright smile and helped Li Changxi up. “Fifth Sister, you don’t need to keep asking forgiveness at every turn. The Old Madam is kindhearted; she won’t blame you.”

Li Changxi’s expression changed. She suddenly realized that Li Weiyang had already figured out the Old Madam’s temperament. They were both daughters born to concubines. If Li Weiyang could win the Old Madam’s favor, why couldn’t she...