Rebirth and Reversal of Fortune

Chapter 13 Xiao Ling's Invitation

Xiao Ling invited Su Jinxiu to a banquet under the guise of hosting one. Su Jinxiu understood that this might be a test from Xiao Ling, and went after making careful preparations.

Su Jinxiu carefully selected her attire and accessories for the banquet in her boudoir. She knew the importance of this banquet; it was not just an ordinary gathering, but could be a turning point in her relationship with Xiao Ling.

"Miss, what do you think of this pink silk dress?" asked the maid Xiao Cui, holding up a beautiful dress.

Su Jinxiu shook her head: "It's not formal enough. Let's go with the light blue one."

Finally, Su Jinxiu wore a light blue gown, adorned with exquisite pearls and jade, and her makeup was elegant yet noble.

When she arrived at the banquet, she attracted the attention of many people. The moment Xiao Ling saw her, a look of amazement flashed in his eyes.

The banquet was attended by a large number of distinguished guests, all of whom were powerful and influential figures in the capital. Su Jinxiu was elegant and poised, engaging in pleasant conversation with the guests.

Xiao Ling observed her silently from the side, and his appreciation for her grew even more.

After a few rounds of drinks, Xiao Ling walked over to Su Jinxiu's side.

"Miss Su, are you satisfied with today?" Xiao Ling asked with a smile.

Su Jinxiu bowed slightly: "Thank you for your hospitality, Your Highness. I am deeply grateful."

Xiao Ling smiled gently: "Miss Su, you don't need to be so polite. I held this banquet in the hope of having more opportunities to spend time with you."

Su Jinxiu's heart tightened, realizing that this was indeed Xiao Ling's test.

"It is my honor to have gained Your Highness's favor," Su Jinxiu said.

Xiao Ling continued, "Miss Su is exceptionally talented and kind-hearted, which I greatly admire."

Su Jinxiu blushed slightly: "Your Highness is too kind. I am unworthy of such praise."

Just then, Miss Li, the daughter of a minister, walked over.

"Your Highness, you and Miss Su are having such a pleasant conversation that you've neglected us all," Miss Li said coquettishly.

Xiao Ling frowned slightly, a hint of displeasure flashing across his face.

Seeing this, Su Jinxiu smiled and said, "Miss Li is too kind. His Highness has always been kind and generous to people, so he will certainly not neglect you all."

Miss Li persisted, saying, "Miss Su is so eloquent; no wonder His Highness invited her."

Su Jinxiu understood that Miss Li was jealous of her receiving Xiao Ling's attention.

“Miss Li, you misunderstand. Jinxiu was merely fortunate to be invited by His Highness and would not dare to have any other improper thoughts,” Su Jinxiu said.

Xiao Ling said, "Alright, let's not argue here and spoil everyone's fun."

Miss Li then left dejectedly.

However, this was just a minor incident. Throughout the banquet, numerous women attempted to approach Xiao Ling, casting provocative glances at Su Jinxiu.

Su Jinxiu remained calm and composed throughout, preventing these people from succeeding.

After the banquet, Xiao Ling escorted Su Jinxiu back to her residence.

"I'm sorry Miss Su had to suffer today," Xiao Ling said.

Su Jinxiu shook her head: "Your Highness is too kind. This is just a minor incident, and Jinxiu can handle it."

Xiao Ling looked at her and said, "Miss Su's intelligence and magnanimity make me admire her even more."

Su Jinxiu was overjoyed: "Thank you for your praise, Your Highness."

Since then, Xiao Ling and Su Jinxiu have been in contact more and more frequently.

However, this aroused dissatisfaction among some people in the palace.

When the Empress heard about Xiao Ling and Su Jinxiu's affair, she summoned Xiao Ling to the palace.

"Ling'er, you're getting so close to Su Jinxiu, do you know how much trouble that will cause?" the Empress said worriedly.

Xiao Ling said, "Mother, Miss Su and I are just friends."

The Empress sighed: "Ling'er, you must know that your identity is special, and any action you take could be used against you."

Xiao Ling understood the Empress's concerns, but he already had his own plans.

At the same time, Su Jinxiu also faced pressure in the Marquis's mansion.

When Su Yue and her mother learned that Su Jinxiu had a close relationship with Xiao Ling, they began to spread rumors in the mansion, saying that Su Jinxiu was trying to curry favor with the royal family and was ignorant of her own limitations.

The old lady also called Su Jinxiu to her side: "Jinxiu, your affair with the Prince of Yan is now the talk of the town. Do you have anything to say about it?"

Su Jinxiu said, "Grandmother, Jinxiu and His Highness Prince Yan have only had normal interactions and there has been absolutely no overstepping of boundaries."

The old lady said, "Jinxiu, the reputation of the Marquis's mansion is of utmost importance. You must be careful to maintain the proper balance."

Su Jinxiu replied, "Grandmother, don't worry, Jinxiu understands."

Despite facing various pressures and obstacles, Su Jinxiu and Xiao Ling's relationship is gradually warming up.

Xiao Ling decided to stop hiding his feelings and prepared to confess to Su Jinxiu.

On a starlit night, Xiao Ling invited Su Jinxiu to the lakeside.

"Jinxiu, you've always been in my heart these past few days," Xiao Ling said affectionately.

Su Jinxiu was deeply moved: "Your Highness..."

Xiao Ling held her hand: "Jinxiu, are you willing to spend your life with me?"

With tears in her eyes, Su Jinxiu nodded: "Jinxiu is willing."

Just as they were basking in happiness, an even greater crisis was about to unfold.