Nothing Had Been Set In Stone Yet

Ling Lihua did not beat around the bush. "Jiu, I would love for you to be my daughter-in-law." 

Chu Jiu was astonished to hear that, but she quickly calmed herself down and said with a frown, "Grand Duchess, you think too highly of me. I'm but a mere guard who is not worthy of Heir Presumptive Lu." She paused before continuing, "Forgive me for asking, but doesn't my background bother you, Grand Duchess?"

Ling Lihua turned to glance at her when she heard this.

Chu Jiu's fingers gripped her sleeve and she found herself holding her breath. She suddenly felt a little foolish.

What if the Grand Duchess was just joking?

Then, Chu Jiu would become a laughing stock for asking a question like that.

She lowered her head, feeling a little frustrated.

Ling Lihua suddenly gave a soft laugh and asked, "Jiu, do you know who I used to be?"