2) The burning shame births the pure vermillion dove

Ling'er's heart throbbed painfully, a sharp sting that she couldn't show.

She is more refined than me, more composed, and more worthy to share the Young Master's favor…

But she is also more distant, more cold.

Together they looked like untouchable immortal couples, and the way her hips completely matched his lap, was like a cocoon.

Maid Yi's smile deepened, a gentle, knowing thing.

"I have heard many things, Dao Yin Sister," she said quietly, her gaze meeting Ling'er's over the rim of the teacup, "Some that you may already know… And some you may not,"

Ling'er's pulse quickened, a rabbit darting beneath a hawk's shadow.

"Indeed?" she breathed, stepping closer, her skirts rustling like leaves caught in a summer storm.