Li Xueyue didn't believe the twist of fate until she turned the corner and was forced to stop walking. She lowered her legs and tucked her hands to the side for a bow.
"Greetings, Your Grace," she stated, keeping her eyes to the ground until the Empress pardoned her.
Li Xueyue was well aware of the prying stares. They were scrutinizing her, from her head to toe, even her clothes.
They were searching for visible flaws to latch onto and tear her down. She could see their eagerness to gossip and predict how tongues would wag after this encounter. Rumors would spread like wildfire at the expense of a woman's reputation; once tarnished, could never be restored.
"Hmm, you may rise," the Empress finally said. Her voice was light and airy, like a patient mother.
Li Xueyue felt like something was off, but she lifted her chin.
The giggles finally died down. The hallway settled into a tense silence.
