Hua Yan stayed with the Princess Consort of Anyang for a while longer, talking, until the princess completely gave up the idea of accompanying them. The more she saw of Hua Yan, the more she liked her, deeply regretting that she hadn't given birth to such a daughter herself. She envied the Duchess of Jingguo for her good fortune in finding such an excellent adoptive daughter.
Outspoken and decisive, the princess had taken great pains to find a bride for An Shuli. She had seen countless young ladies from the capital, whether noblewomen from high-ranking families, daughters of distinguished clans, or delicate beauties from humble homes. However, no matter who she considered, Shuli wasn't satisfied with any, and neither was she truly fond of any—until someone like Hua Yan came along.
Praising Hua Yan, she patted her hand and said, "The Crown Prince has good taste; you really are fortunate!"