Duke Shenxiu's residence, the bamboo courtyard. Nie Shaoqing's study.
"Even if he doesn't like the Imperial concubine, he might put up a false facade to protect the Crown Prince," he paused and glanced behind his attendant.
His brows creased as a shadow cast at the door, "who..." his face brightened as his gaze fell on Manlin.
Liqiu and Manlin were never far from each other, his lips curved up. Deming turned slightly to see the reason behind the change in his master's mood.
Manlin held the food warmer in front of her and gave Nie Shaoqing a deep bow. "Young master Shaoqing, may I please come in?" she asked in a quiet tone.
"Yes".
He kept staring behind her as she walked in, expecting Liqiu to walk in after her. His face fell when he did not see her.
Manlin lips twitched at his reaction but she quickly schooled her expression. No master would be comfortable with their servant witnessing their vulnerability.
