Xie Si was no fool. Even though he had just returned home and knew nothing of his sisterâs affairs, he was aware of Ji Divine Hunterâs unstinting efforts. Elder Lady Ji had championed their family. The Eighth Prince, inseparable from His Majesty since childhood, had been involved. The Princess, a favorite among the people, had always called his sister âpretty sisterâ. And Ji Second Young Master had helped remove the Gu Insect, among others...
No matter who they were, each of these individuals was a highly influential figure. None of them had any prior connection to their family, yet they all appeared simultaneously to offer help. This was certainly suspicious.
His sister had been away from the Capital City since childhood and had no connections there. Yet, she returned yesterday, met the Princess less than two days ago, and had already managed to separate from the clan.
What exactly had his sister done? Did she secretly make a deal with the Ji Family?
Xie Si had only returned home that day and was terrified by the news of the Gu Insect in his body. Then came the confrontation with the Lin Family, followed by witnessing Ji Youzhiâs interrogation of people. After that, his sister reclaimed their family property, had the Gu Insect removed, and they left their home. All these events happened in such quick succession that he had no time to think.
But now that everything had settled down, Xie Si naturally found his mind racing with thoughts.
Could his sister have made a deal with the Ji Family? Or perhaps the Ji Family needed her to do something for them?
Xie Si gazed at his sister with concern. Xie PanâEr chuckled softly.
"The Princess is somewhat peculiar; ordinary people cannot get close to her. As it happens, I managed to gain her favor. The Second and Third Madams of the Ji Family, as well as Elder Lady Ji, all wish for me to accompany the Princess. Thatâs why the Ji Family went to such lengths to help us. After all, regarding those around the Princess, I am neither a servant nor a relative, yet she insists on calling me âsisterâ. How could the Ji Family allow me to have a mother whose indenture contract is held by someone else?"
Hearing his sisterâs explanation, Xie Si gasped.
How old is she? How could a fourteen-year-old grasp all of this?
"How do you understand all this at such a young age? You already obtained Motherâs indenture contract. Why did you insist on separating from the clan?"
Xie Siâs mind reeled with questions, but he chose to voice the most pressing one.
Xie PanâEr gave a light laugh. Though she tried her best to appear at ease, Xie Si could still sense the immense strain she was under.
"Since I was little, I was always with Xie Yingying. While she was arrogant and domineering, I had to act very docile. When she was reckless and impulsive, I had to be cautious and meticulous. Over time, these eyes of mine learned to see clearly."
Xie PanâEr paused here, then chuckled softly.
"As for why we had to separate from the clan, itâs naturally so we can live with our heads held high. For all these years, theyâve piled burdens on us. I donât seek to repay them in kind, but I also refuse to continue living in their shadow. Our parents have been ground down for so many years. I want them to have a happier, more fulfilling life from now on!"
Watching his sister, Xie Si finished her unspoken thought, "Youâre probably thinking that after separating from the clan, no one will be able to hold Brother back, right?"
Xie PanâEr laughed, her eyes bright with joy.
"Brother is the best at his studies. Father once said that when he was studying, he wasnât as quick-witted as Brother!"
A smile touched Xie Siâs lips, but his heart ached with a bittersweet feeling.
"Donât worry. Brother will definitely not disappoint you."
Xie PanâEr nodded, then glanced towards their parentsâ room and said, "I should go now. Father and Mother will have to rely on you, Brother, for their care."
Hearing this, Xie Si anxiously asked, "Where are you going?"