Ningguang had chosen an abandoned mine outside the Golden House as the construction site for the Jade Chamber.
Such a massive undertaking meant news of the Jade Chamber's reconstruction spread like wildfire.
People, both acquaintances and strangers, were pulling every string they could to contact Ningguang, all eager to join the Jade Chamber reconstruction project.
The reasons were obvious: profit.
First, they hoped to curry favor with Ningguang, laying a solid foundation for their future careers.
Second, they might even secure quick-turn profits directly from Ningguang, catapulting themselves into the upper echelons of society overnight.
Perhaps due to her usually warm and approachable demeanor, Qin Yu had been relentlessly besieged by acquaintances these past few days.
What materials does Lady Ningguang require?
Could you please introduce me to Lady Ningguang? I have invaluable information!
The relentless pestering had left Qin Yu utterly exasperated.
This was why Ningguang found Qin Yu looking so troubled.
"Feeling overwhelmed?" Ningguang asked.
"Yes," Qin Yu replied.
"You could simply refuse them directly."
Qin Yu sighed. "It's the sheer numbers that wear me down. Reject one, and ten more come swarming. It's utterly maddening."
"Your disguise has certainly given you the best and worst of both worlds. But fret not. I will soon issue a public announcement detailing the critical materials needed for the Jade Chamber reconstruction." Ningguang smiled faintly. "Once they learn of this, they'll have no time to bother you anymore. You'll finally have some peace."
Qin Yu exhaled in relief.
Perfect! Finally, no more pestering!
"At last, the reconstruction is finally starting," Qin Yu murmured wistfully. "It feels like ages since I last saw the Jade Chamber."
Ningguang observed Qin Yu's every move, noting that her "unmasked" demeanor seemed merely less formal than before. A sense of relief washed over her.
When Qin Yu had previously confessed to wearing a facade, Ningguang hadn't minded, but one worry lingered: what if Qin Yu's true nature was drastically different? Adapting to such a change might take time.
For example:
"Lady Ningguang, I'm so scared!"—If Qin Yu acted like that, Ningguang doubted even she could adapt quickly.
But as things stood now, there was no problem at all.
Upon reflection, Ningguang realized that being able to interact with Qin Yu in her true form was a privilege.
The only drawback...
"A lack of intimacy," Ningguang murmured.
Ever since their near-crossing of the line, the distance between them had remained tantalizingly close—like almost kissing, a state of maddening anticipation.
Ningguang longed for Qin Yu to initiate affection, believing that only such gestures would truly satisfy her. Yet Qin Yu remained stubbornly passive.
Though Qin Yu accepted Ningguang's advances without resistance, even the initiator sometimes yearned to be the one being pursued.
Moreover, it seemed that giving Qin Yu the initiative would trigger some kind of "switch," causing her emotions to surge uncontrollably.
Ningguang wanted her partner to fully enjoy every aspect of their relationship, both psychological and physical. Since giving Qin Yu the lead made her so happy and cheerful, Ningguang hoped Qin Yu would take the initiative more often: touching her, whispering sweet nothings in her ear, expressing her love, embracing her... Ningguang gazed at Qin Yu, trying to convey her desire through her eyes.
Since entering this new relationship, she had noticed her longing for Qin Yu had suddenly swelled, not quite infinite, but certainly astonishing.
She had no intention of living like an ascetic; while she would exercise restraint, she wouldn't suppress her desires excessively.
"Live this life to the fullest, without regrets"—this was Ningguang's creed.
Power, wealth, and affection—all must be perfect.
And now, she craved the "passionate love" that people often spoke of: Qin Yu's spontaneous expression, her demands, her fulfillment of Ningguang's desires.
If Qin Yu refused to satisfy her, well... Ningguang didn't know what she might do.
As for why she wouldn't simply seduce Qin Yu, the answer was simple:
It would be boring.
She wanted Qin Yu to act spontaneously, driven by her own desires.
Feeling Ningguang's intense gaze, Qin Yu's ears grew slightly warm.
Why is she always looking over here?
It's break time now... does she want me to do something? But this is the office! Crossing that line is out of the question!
As these thoughts raced through her mind, Qin Yu's resolve shifted.
She had previously decided to make Keqing and Ningguang love her even more, as that was the only way to achieve her ultimate goal: to have them all.
This desire resonated deep within her heart.
But with this answer came a new question: How? How can I make them like me even more?
She knew she had to work hard, but what direction should her efforts take?
That's it!
Qin Yu's eyes lit up. She leaned closer to Ningguang and asked, "Lady Ningguang, who will be in charge of the Jade Chamber's reconstruction project?"
It's me, right? It has to be me! There's no one else who could handle it!
Supervising this project successfully would greatly increase Ningguang's favor toward her, allowing her to take a significant step forward.
She might even say, "You've done exceptionally well. I'm very pleased. Just as I expected from someone I care for."
Perfect.
Ningguang smiled faintly. "Of course, it will be..."
"So it's..."
"Baiwen."
"Ha?!"
Qin Yu's face shot forward, her voice urgent. "N-not me?"
"So you really wanted this assignment?"
"Sort of..." Qin Yu mumbled, too embarrassed to voice her true intentions.
Ningguang hummed thoughtfully, a hint of displeasure in her tone.
If Qin Yu took on this job, their time together would naturally be significantly reduced. Of course, this wasn't the reason Ningguang had assigned Baiwen as the supervisor.
She wanted Qin Yu to focus on other matters.
Yet Qin Yu seemed determined to take on this task. Could it be that she's trying to run away again, just like before? Ningguang's suspicions deepened, fueling her dissatisfaction.
"I've already decided to entrust this matter to Baiwen," Ningguang said evenly. "Changing that now would create complications. Besides, I have other assignments for you. I wouldn't want you tied down with engineering work."
Qin Yu's plans were foiled, leaving her feeling helpless.
"Oh... I see."
How can I make Lady Ningguang like me more?
Seeing Qin Yu's dejected expression and hearing the regret in her voice, Ningguang's brow furrowed.
When did Qin Yu become as obsessed with work as Keqing?
Aren't there more important things in life than work?
"Lady Ningguang, is there anything you'd like to do right now?" Qin Yu suddenly asked.
"No."
"What about something to eat? Or drink?"
Ningguang raised an eyebrow in surprise. "No, nothing. Why are you pressing the issue?"
"Well... I wanted to cheer you up, Lady Ningguang. After all, we're... in that kind of relationship now," Qin Yu said, speaking in roundabout terms.
The dissatisfaction in Ningguang's heart vanished.
"Was your sudden decision to take on the project earlier also for this reason?" she asked.
"Mm... yes, that's right."
Evaluation: D
So that's it, Ningguang thought. Qin Yu probably doesn't know what couples are supposed to do, so she's trying to win my favor first. How utterly endearing.
For Ningguang herself, this was also her first relationship. In terms of experience, she was just as clueless as Qin Yu.
But she knew what she wanted to do.
Though she didn't want to manipulate Qin Yu, she couldn't just let things drift. Who knew how long it would take for Qin Yu to realize what she truly wanted?
Ningguang longed to start enjoying this unique affection as soon as possible.
Of course, she couldn't be too obvious. She had to rely on subtle hints.
So Ningguang smiled faintly and said, "If you're worried about what lovers are supposed to do, I don't think you need to overthink it."
"Really?" Qin Yu asked, puzzled.
Exactly as I suspected. Ningguang had drawn Qin Yu out and confirmed that her feelings aligned perfectly with her own. She felt genuinely satisfied and delighted.
"Yes, at least for us, there's no need to overthink things. Just be yourself."
Qin Yu fell into thoughtful silence.
Just be yourself... That would certainly be easier. But my goal is to make Ningguang like me even more.
If I don't specifically take on projects to please her, what else can I do?
"Then... what should I do?" Qin Yu asked.
"I'm not sure either. You know this is my first time interacting with someone romantically. In terms of experience, I'm no richer than you are. But I think we can start with this."
Ningguang smiled. "Follow your heart."
Follow my heart?
If I had to say what I most wanted to do right now... Qin Yu suddenly had an idea, and the thought brought a blush to her cheeks.
Seeing this, Ningguang's face also warmed slightly, her eyes filled with anticipation. "It seems you've already thought of something. I'm very curious. Tell me about it."
She took Qin Yu's hand and drew her closer.
"I'll fulfill your desires," Ningguang whispered in Qin Yu's ear.
Evaluation: C-
Ningguang's subtle suggestion flipped Qin Yu's "switch."
Her face flushed, her heart raced, and her emotions surged. Seated on Ningguang's lap, their gazes locked for a split second before their breaths naturally synchronized.
Evaluation: C+
Evaluation: B
Evaluation: A-
Qin Yu gently stroked Ningguang's cheek, and Ningguang lightly grasped her hand.
"From now on, just call me by my name when we're alone," Ningguang said.
Evaluation: A+
Qin Yu glanced at her hand being held, then extended a finger to lightly trace Ningguang's neck, whispering, "Ningguang?"
"Mm," Ningguang replied. "But if you want to call me something more intimate, I'd welcome that too."
"I can't think of anything more intimate to call you. I think 'Ningguang, Lady... Ningguang' sounds quite nice already."
Ningguang smiled back. "You like it that much?"
"I don't know."
Don't ask me such questions, Qin Yu thought, pressing her fingertip gently against Ningguang's neck to feel the pulse beneath her skin.
"It's beating so fast," Qin Yu murmured.
Evaluation: S
Ningguang blushed slightly, her emotions running wild. Her heart raced naturally, but Qin Yu's touch and probing gaze made her feel as if her innermost feelings were laid bare.
Suddenly, Qin Yu asked, "Even though it's a bit strange to ask this now, but... are you sure about choosing me? You know, I'm actually quite troublesome. I'm aware of this and trying to improve, but to have me as yours..."
"Ningguang, you could have anyone you want," Qin Yu said slowly, tracing circles on Ningguang's neck.
Ningguang merely replied, "We've discussed romance before."
"I know, I remember. For you, what you want is someone who can keep up with you, constantly improve, and never be bound by limitations."
Ningguang smiled faintly. "Exactly."
"But if I weren't that kind of person, would you still..." Qin Yu stammered, feeling awkward about asking such a question. I really am a troublesome woman, she thought.
"There's no 'what if.' You would never become that kind of person. I'm absolutely certain."
Qin Yu mentally pouted. That's not what I wanted to hear at all.
Still, it was true.
"You're right, I wouldn't."
"Then that settles it. Of course, even if you did change, I wouldn't let you go. I'd forcibly drag you back up and make you keep up. After all, we made a promise—keep up with me, and I'll show you a grander, newer world."
Ningguang's gentle words and the soft strokes through her hair gradually calmed Qin Yu, filling her with a deep sense of reassurance.
"Mm-hmm."
Evaluation: SS-
She then complained, "And stop touching my head! You're messing up my hair."
"I don't mind."
Of course you don't! Qin Yu thought with exasperation. It's not your hair that's getting messed up. Aloud, she added, "But if you stop, Ningguang, I might consider giving you a reward."
Ningguang withdrew her hand, intrigued. "Oh? What kind of reward?"
"Close your eyes. Open your mouth."
After Ningguang closed her eyes, Qin Yu took out a small piece of candy and slipped it into her mouth.
The unexpected sweetness made Ningguang involuntarily open her eyes, just as Qin Yu slid off her lap.
So this is the so-called reward, Ningguang thought absently. I thought it would be Qin Yu's taste...
"You've been using your brain a lot today, Ningguang. Have something sweet to replenish your energy."
Feeling Qin Yu's concern, a surge of happiness welled up within Ningguang. A smile bloomed on her face. "So this is the reward."
"What else?"
"...I've tasted this candy," Qin Yu said suddenly, looking away.
Ningguang raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised. "Is that so?"
"Maybe."
"Maybe?"
"Maybe not," Qin Yu added.
She's definitely teasing me, Ningguang thought. Deciding to play along, she said, "It's quite delicious."
Evaluation: SS+
".....You pervert," Qin Yu muttered, her face flushing crimson. She hurried out of the office, leaving Ningguang alone.
Ningguang watched her leave, the restlessness in her heart still churning.
She had thought Qin Yu had satisfied her, but it turned out to be only a temporary reprieve. The closer they became, the stronger Ningguang's desires grew.
She longed for deeper intimacy—to touch, to kiss, to cross that line...
So this is what I'm really like... Ningguang murmured, as if rediscovering herself.