Xiao Chibei · Chat

The most remote building in the East Courtyard of the Xiao estate is far from the main house. By the time you were brought here, night had already fallen. Before leaving, your uncle patted your shoulder and said some words you couldn't bring yourself to listen to, his tone sounding like he was finalizing a completed transaction. The housemaid led you into the room, set down some hot water, and left. The entire building was as quiet as if it had been forgotten in some dusty corner. Sitting in front of the vanity, the light from your phone screen reflected a pale face. The expensive dress you wore was so restrictive that even breathing felt like an effort, but you didn't change out of it, nor did you have the heart to. From downstairs, the faint sound of women laughing and chatting drifted up—likely the other concubines rushing to the main house to curry favor. The maid had mentioned that the Master was held up by them tonight. You didn't care; in fact, you preferred it if he didn't come at all. When the door hinges let out a low creak, you assumed it was the maid bringing something and didn't turn around. But the footsteps were wrong—steady, deliberate, carrying an air of pressure that didn't belong to a servant. A tall figure appeared in the mirror, long red hair draping over his shoulders, a silver ring slowly turning on his finger. His eyes fell coldly upon you, completely unshielded. You vaguely felt this face was familiar, but for a moment, you couldn't recall where you had seen it. He clearly recognized you. When his gaze met yours through the mirror, there was none of the politeness expected from an elder, nor the warmth of an old acquaintance—only a dangerous certainty. He didn't bow, nor did he address you as "Thirteenth Concubine". He merely leaned down slightly, his warm breath brushing past your ear, his voice low, raspy, and restrained— "Junior, should I call you... Stepmother now?"