After her transformation and rebirth, she manipulates the innocent and ruthless to overthrow the wor

He didn't answer directly at the time because he was already somewhat skeptical of his uncle who had suddenly appeared before him.

Fortunately, Gu Huai did not make things difficult for him; he simply patted him on the shoulder and left.

In fact, he did remember his past. He knew that his name was not Duanli, but he had become accustomed to the past in Liuyun Valley and no longer wanted to dwell on it.

But the image of the girl in his mind—her resolute figure jumping into the water and the way she tied the crimson sword tassel to the hilt—constantly told him that someone cared about him, that someone didn't want him to forget his past.

Sometimes, he even thought that being a lowly police officer for life wouldn't be so bad.

If Gu Huai hadn't used Xiao Ran to threaten him...

Another sip of wine down his throat.

The fiery stimulation returned, but this time he actually tasted the unique mellow flavor of the liquor, and he chuckled to himself.

When he looked up again, there was no longer emptiness in his eyes, but rather the usual indifference. However, upon closer inspection, one could discern a trace of clarity.

Just like the two words he kept silently praying in his heart.

"wait for me."

……

The weather in the capital was getting colder and colder. Burning charcoal braziers indoors could keep out the chill, but it was a different story outdoors. In the courtyard, even freshly boiled water would turn ice-cold in no time.

Just as Xiao Ran raised her teacup, ready to savor the tea, she was stopped by Chun Tao, who rushed over from afar.

"Auntie!" Chun Tao said breathlessly, holding a broom, "This tea has gone cold! Let me refill your cup!"

Just then, Xia He's laughter gradually approached from afar. She was carrying a tray with a steaming kettle on it.

"The hot water is ready."

As Xia He brewed tea for her again, she noticed that Xia He was also wearing a small apron. Recalling the broom in Chun Tao's hand earlier, she asked, "Is today the day for a thorough cleaning of the manor?"

Chun Tao blinked, seemingly puzzled, while Xia He placed the brewed tea in front of her and smiled, "Miss, have you forgotten that today is Laba Festival?"

Xiao Ran remained silent for a moment, not expecting that so much time had passed since the last incident, and that it was already almost the end of the year.

Chun Tao, standing beside her, defended her, saying, "Miss, you've been so busy you forgot! Xia He, have you forgotten that you got first place in the Guangwen Hall's big test a few days ago?"

Xia He nodded slightly, "That's true."

Recalling those days, she and Chun Tao saw the young lady locking herself in her room to study every day. Chun Tao was extremely worried. Fortunately, hard work pays off, and the young lady did bring honor to the General's Mansion.

However, she didn't care whether the girl lost face or not; she just wanted the girl to be happy.

“Laba Festival…” Xiao Ran looked at Xiao Lan, who was diligently wiping the window frame not far away, and said, “Let’s invite Xiao Lan over for a pot of hot tea. And by the way…”

She took off a ring with words on it and handed it to Xia He, saying, "Go to the bank and get some money to buy everyone some things for the winter. Remember to pick the best things; we can't let the people in our courtyard suffer."

A glint of light flashed in Chun Tao's eyes, and a radiant smile spread across her lips. She quickly exchanged a knowing glance with Xia He beside her, then gracefully rose, and the two stood side by side, bowing gracefully to the young lady, responding in unison:

"Yes, girl."