The Courtesan's Crown - Chapter 2

Shen Huinian paid a large sum for my freedom. The Madam was happy seeing the silver but reluctant to lose her top courtesan.

She held my hand, chattering endlessly, half praising me, half praising how well she’d treated me.

My expression unchanged, I listened quietly, playing the part of the obedient one.

“Wanwan, don’t forget your Mama when you become the Third Young Master’s concubine in the Shen residence. You owe your good fortune today to my care.”

So the Madam thought Shen Huinian was taking me as his concubine. I didn’t correct her, letting the jealous, envious gazes from others in the Spring Breeze Pavilion fall upon me.

This misunderstanding had spread since Shen Huinian started visiting me exclusively six years ago.

After my debut, my first and only patron was Shen Huinian. He only knew I was greedy for wealth, but I also appreciated beauty. Many powerful men desired me, but their looks paled compared to Shen Huinian’s, so I chose him.

As the third son of the Duke of Zhenguo, Shen Huinian was tall, handsome, with sharp brows and bright eyes-the object of affection for many noble ladies in the capital. This coveted man was mine alone for six years.

These years, Shen Huinian treated me well: reserved me exclusively, gave me private quarters so I didn’t have to please others, bestowed rare treasures, and whispered sweet nothings in moments of passion. He was an excellent patron.

This outcome was the inevitable path for us.

So why did I feel somewhat unsatisfied?

Leaving the Spring Breeze Pavilion, I wore only a simple blue dress, a plain silver hairpin, my face bare, a veil hat hiding my features-like an ordinary respectable woman.

This was the most relaxed and content I’d felt in ten years.

I sensed someone watching me, but when I looked up, saw no one.

I turned my head nonchalantly, pretending not to notice.

But I smelled it-a faint, faint scent of clean bamboo.

A scent often on Shen Huinian.

I didn’t leave the capital immediately but found an inconspicuous house to stay in.

Basking in the sun daily in the courtyard, I grew lazy.

On the tenth day, someone knocked. My heart leaped heavily.

But opening the door to see the visitor brought an indescribable disappointment.

Two burly servants stood there.

“Miss Jiangwan, the Young Master says you must leave the capital immediately. He is to marry the Princess Changle and does not wish to see you again.”

Through their stiff, cold voices, I could almost see Shen Huinian’s ruthless expression saying these words.

I was silent for a long moment before replying, “Okay.”

Comforting myself: Enough. Don’t be sentimental anymore.

It’s just Shen Huinian. No big deal.