"Welcome, Miss Cheng Yu An."

The little maid at the door spoke respectfully, a gentle smile on her face. Soft golden sunlight bathed her, radiating quiet warmth.

Yu An stood alone, head bowed. Her bangs slightly veiled her eyes. Silent. Beneath her dark hair, her eyes were swollen red; faint tear tracks traced her pale cheeks.

A silver suitcase stood beside her.

She ignored the maid, lost in thought—uncharacteristically distant.

"Miss Cheng Yu An," the maid continued, voice humble yet poised, "I know you're upset. But you'll meet Young Master Qin soon. Please compose yourself."

At the mention of *that man*, Yu An lifted her head. A flicker of complex emotion stirred in her dull eyes.

"I understand."

"Then please follow me."

The maid nodded, stepped beside her, took the suitcase handle, and led the way into the Qin estate.

Yu An hesitated, watching her retreating figure. She bit her lower lip and followed.

...

...

"Miss Cheng Yu An, please change first. This attire isn't suitable for meeting Young Master Qin."

The maid guided her into a private room, holding an exquisite silver off-shoulder gown.

"I'll wait outside."

She placed the dress neatly on the bed and closed the door.

Yu An stood dazed a moment before noticing it. She fell silent.

Gently patting her chest, she slowly undressed.

A soft rustle filled the quiet room as fabric pooled at her feet.

Her bare, tender feet tapped faintly against the floor. She crossed her arms over her chest, legs pressed together—self-conscious.

She walked to the bed, gaze hollow, staring at the gown.

In another rustle, she slipped into the silver dress. Before she could adjust, the door opened.

The maid froze for a heartbeat at the sight.

She took Yu An’s hand and led her to the vanity.

"Allow me to add the final touch to your charm," she murmured with a smile, fingers gently smoothing Yu An’s silky black hair.

Yu An closed her eyes, accepting the kindness.

Moments later, makeup complete.

"Miss Cheng Yu An… you’re even more beautiful than I imagined," the maid said frankly. *No wonder Young Master Qin cares for her. With this beauty, even I’d want to steal a kiss—haha~*

Yu An’s eyes shifted to the full-length mirror. The maid stepped aside with a smile, leaving only Yu An’s reflection.

The elegant gown hugged her graceful curves. Sheer black stockings sheathed her slender legs. Her pale complexion lent delicate vulnerability. Captivating eyeshadow framed her eyes—any glance would stir the soul.

"Thank you," Yu An whispered to her reflection.

"No need. It’s my duty." The maid smiled, took her hand, and guided her toward the door.

"Time to meet Young Master Qin."

"Mm…"

At his name again, Yu An’s heart sank. She let herself be led.

...

...

"I’ll leave you here. Young Master Qin is waiting inside."

The maid released her hand, offered a playful wink, and turned away.

Alone before the door, Yu An pushed it open.

A silhouette—neither wholly familiar nor strange—stood in the dim room.

She felt herself drawn into the man’s arms. Instinct urged resistance…

Then she remembered her father’s… Cheng Du’s and Ye Yi’s words.

Eyes closing softly, she stilled. Let him lift her.

"Damn… this feel’s kinda off…"

*What is he saying…?*