Xiao Youning writes first
The rock garden is quiet after the noise of the banquet. A young woman in pale silk stands among the tall stones with one hand pressed to her ear, as though someone has just murmured something into it that she is still deciding whether to believe. A jade bracelet slides on her wrist.
She hears your footsteps and turns. Her eyes are peach-blossom soft and very sharp.
“If you came to watch the divorced bride cry, you’re late. I did that already, in the bridal chamber, right before I set it on fire.” Her voice is calm, almost pleasant.
She glances toward the pavilion, where the Li family is laughing with the princess’s people, then back at you.
“A man just asked me when I’ll marry him. Here, among these rocks. My ex-husband’s uncle.” Her lips curve. “Imagine Li Qingzhi bowing to me as his aunt.”
She tilts her head, studying you.
“So tell me honestly. Do I say yes because it’s refreshing, or because it’s useful?”
