Though that was the case, Bai Ling had never actually dressed herself up, let alone for someone else.

After washing up, they went to the dressing table. Bai Ting smiled slightly and unceremoniously sat on the soft wooden chair. Like a little kitten eagerly waiting for treats, her eyes sparkled as she waited for Bai Ling to do her hair and makeup.

Bai Ling had watched Bai Ting and the maids do it before, so she thought she could handle it.

But when she actually started, she realized it wasn’t easy.

After clumsy attempts, she finally finished. It wasn’t beautiful, but passable. Throughout this, Bai Ting stayed silent, just smiling at Bai Ling’s reflection in the mirror.

Bai Ling let out a long breath. Finally done! She’d never expected such a simple task to be so hard. She vowed never to try it again.

Seeing her, Bai Ting chuckled. “It’s just hair and makeup. Is it really that big a deal?”

Bai Ling was speechless. She couldn’t say it was because she’d been a boy in her past life and knew nothing about girly things.

That thought stayed locked inside. Not knowing how to explain, she lowered her head silently, looking like a chided child.

Unusually, Bai Ting didn’t tease her. “Alright, it’s not perfect, but I love it. My cute little sister did it—I’ll cherish it. Effort brings results. It’ll get better with practice. And…”

Bai Ting grinned mischievously. “That submissive look? It’ll attract creepy old men.”

“No way!” Bai Ling protested weakly. She didn’t realize how unconvincing she sounded. Her mirror showed a breathtaking face—one that could drive people mad, nation-captivating even now. Imagine her beauty when grown.

“Of course not! I’ll protect you!” Bai Ting declared, patting her chest. But the thought of separation drained her. “Soon, you’ll need to protect yourself. I can’t stay by your side forever. You’ll grow up—you can’t stay under my wing. It’s not good for you. Who knows, maybe over there…”

Bai Ling covered Bai Ting’s mouth before she could finish.

Head down, bangs hiding her eyes, Bai Ling’s messy hair looked fluffy from just waking up. Bai Ting couldn’t see her gaze.

Bai Ling pursed her lips and whispered, “It won’t happen.”

Her low voice held determination. She feared separation and loss—she’d tremble at the thought, terrified of losing family again.

Bai Ting felt the tremors through Bai Ling’s hand on her mouth.

Bai Ting’s playful mood vanished. She swiftly pulled Bai Ling into a tight hug—she’d never seen her like this. “What’s wrong? Are you unwell?”

Bai Ling kept her head down, hugging back tightly. She trembled. “No. I just… don’t want that to happen to you. I hate that feeling. Promise me, okay?”

A trace of pleading colored her last words. Bai Ting heard it clearly.

“Mm, okay. I promise. It won’t happen.”

To shift the mood, Bai Ting said awkwardly, “Let’s skip this. I’ll do your hair now!”

“Mm!” Bai Ling released her but stayed head-down. She struggled to snap out of that state—it always took time.

Even after Bai Ting finished, Bai Ling remained silent and downcast. Bai Ting said nothing either.

“Done!” Bai Ting sighed in relief, like a burden lifted. “Mm!” Bai Ling replied, then fell silent. After a long pause, Bai Ting’s lips twitched. “Let’s go downstairs. Father and the others are waiting.”

“Mm!” Bai Ling stood and automatically linked arms with Bai Ting, still head-down.

Bai Ting was slightly surprised—Bai Ling had never initiated this before. But she didn’t dwell on it. Her sister’s earlier state meant something was wrong, yet they’d always been together. It made no sense.

Unable to figure it out, Bai Ting gave up. “Let’s go.”

“Mm!”

Downstairs, Uncle Qiao had arrived and was talking with Bai Mo. The girls felt embarrassed for making everyone wait.

They greeted their parents, then approached Qiao Yun. “Good morning, Uncle Qiao!”

Qiao Yun was surprised. He’d just told Bai Mo not to disturb their rest—this trip might take ages, so he’d wanted to give them time. Yet he’d only just arrived himself.

“Since everyone’s here, let’s eat first. We can leave after breakfast,” Bai Mo said.

“Good idea,” Qiao Yun agreed after a moment.

Bai Mo nodded and ordered the kitchen to prepare breakfast.