The next day, Xia Ruqing still rose early to pay her respects to the Empress. Life showed no sign of change. However, Consort Yun's gaze toward her held a hint of difference. Xia Ruqing didn't understand but chose not to dwell on it.
When she returned to Qingya Residence, Xiao Xizi brought from the Imperial Kitchen a basket of plums and a basket of Ying Tao.
Only then did Xia Ruqing realize.
Oh, I am still the Emperor's Favored Consort!
The previous death threat had almost disrupted her composure.
Now...
Xia Ruqing just laughed.
"It's good to be the Favored Consort! Favor is always good!"
With favor, she could keep her life safe.
So Xia Ruqing set a goal for herself: at the very least, she couldn't fall out of favor or die before the next selection of Fine Ladies!
During the next selection, with Fine Ladies entering the palace, who knows where Noble Consort Shih's attention would be!
Xia Ruqing waved her fan, thought for a while, then stood up with a laugh.
