USWHC -Chapter 176 Flirting Lessons (Part 16

The wide stone corridor was lined with clusters of bright red flowers, giving the sensation of stepping from early spring straight into the height of summer.

At the end of the corridor stood a woman equally surrounded by blooms, elegant and radiant, her gaze catching the approaching group. She immediately smiled and walked forward to greet them.

“Sister Ji, I’ve been looking forward to seeing you!”

Today, Miss Sun seemed unusually warm and enthusiastic. Not only did she come forward on her own, but she also eagerly clasped Zhu Jie’s hand.

Since when had their relationship become this close? Zhu Jie smiled inwardly but showed no trace of surprise, returning the gesture with a gentle smile. “Thank you for waiting, Miss Sun,” she said gracefully.

Hearing this, Miss Sun immediately adopted a mock sad expression. “Sister Ji, why do you still call me ‘Miss’? From now on, just call me Shaohui!”

Shaohui Sun? Zhu Jie considered it—a good name, different from all the floral and botanical names she was used to—but outwardly, she had to maintain an air of respect and shyness. “How could I dare call you by your given name so directly!”

“I feel so close to you the moment I see you, like you were my real sister! Please don’t keep calling me ‘Miss’ this or ‘Miss’ that. It hurts my heart. I’d think you don’t want to be friends with me, your little sister!” Shaohui immediately adopted a pitiful expression, looking at Zhu Jie.

Looks like she insisted on changing how she was addressed. Zhu Jie didn’t really mind, but seeing Shaohui so adamant, she had to feign difficulty and softly called, “Little sister Shaohui!”

“Ah, Sister Mei!” Shaohui immediately responded sweetly, her face lighting up like a blooming flower. “Quick, Sister, come inside!” She took Zhu Jie’s hand and started leading her toward the house.

But in a flash, her peripheral vision caught a glimpse of Ji Yi. Huh? He’s here too? Looking closer, something was different about him today!

Ji Yi quietly stood there, a faint, subtle smile tugging at his lips, his gaze sharp, as if watching both her and Zhu Jie at once.

His outfit today was noticeably better than the other day, making him appear especially upright—(intentionally so, of course!). Truly, it was eye-catching. Shaohui couldn’t help stealing a second glance.

Zhu Jie immediately caught her little glances. How about that? Clothes make the man, saddle makes the horse; even a Zhu Bajie dressed up can win a wife! She sent Ji Yi a triumphant little glance.

Next moment, Ji Yi quickly shot back a goofy grin, teeth bared, face all scrunched up in that ridiculous smile!

Brother, are you doing this on purpose? Zhu Jie nearly choked back a laugh. Miss Sun turned her head away immediately, her expression seemingly saying the scene was too beautiful and hurting her eyes.

“I’ve prepared some tea and snacks. Sister, if you don’t mind, may I offer you a taste?” Shaohui then focused entirely on Zhu Jie.

It just so happened to be noon. What she called “snacks” was really lunch, and as an experienced farmer, Zhu Jie naturally couldn’t refuse the invitation.

“You’re too kind!” Zhu Jie offered a couple of polite words, then obediently followed Shaohui into the sitting room.

It was a small reception room, connecting Miss Sun’s private quarters with the outer courtyard. Originally, it was designed as a place for receiving guests—a more intimate space than the grand hall outside. Only those close to the lady of the house could be invited here.

The maids inside seemed to have been waiting. When Shaohui and her guests entered, they respectfully pulled out chairs and laid out bowls and chopsticks for everyone.

While the maids silently went about their duties, Shaohui merely smiled as she observed. And what was she watching? Not Ji Yi—her gaze was on Zhu Jie, whom she still saw as Ji Mei.

From a distance, she watched Zhu Jie sit gracefully, smiling naturally, showing neither nervousness nor curiosity. She looked like someone used to such grand scenes.

Yes, it might only be a small reception room, but Shaohui had set up a large round table, big enough for more than ten people. Yet only she, Zhu Jie, and Ji Yi sat at it. Around them, more than ten maids attended, creating a reverse spectacle compared to modern restaurants—this time, there was little to eat but plenty to see.