Zhu Yating frowned upon hearing Yang Ning's provocative words. The remarks struck a nerve, and Zhu Yating clenched her dress at the sides, gritting her teeth. She confronted Yang Ning, "What are you trying to do here? Did you come to humiliate me and complain to my husband?
Does your husband know that you're not as innocent as you portray, but in reality, a vixen with two faces?" She said coldly, momentarily forgetting about the difference in their positions.
Yang Ning reclined comfortably on Zhu Yating's bed, elegantly crossing one leg over the other. She nonchalantly twirled strands of her hair, a sly smirk playing on her lips as she provocatively locked eyes with Zhu Yating. With an air of mockery, she spoke, "Firstly, my husband knows every facet of who I am and loves me for it. No need for pretenses, unlike your little charade."
"Secondly, 'humiliate'? Please, Zhu Yating, spare me the comedy. Who was it spreading rumors about me to everyone? Certainly not me." Yang Ning arched her eyebrows, a hint of disdain in her tone. This time, she dropped the formal address, opting to use Zhu Yating's name, further fueling the already visible vexation in her rival.
Zhu Yating furrowed her brow, struggling to grasp the intent behind Yang Ning's words. It became increasingly evident that this woman hadn't paid a visit with the intention of forming a friendship.
Observing Zhu Yating's perplexed stance, Yang Ning couldn't resist a scornful chuckle before addressing her, "Forgetful, aren't you? Have you conveniently lost your memory of how you sowed seeds of doubt at the party, convincing the ladies that my marital harmony was a pretense and that I couldn't bear an heir to the Empire?
Or perhaps the memory of accusing me of cheating to win the archery game, insinuating I used immoral tactics?"
She continued, her voice sharp, "And let's not overlook your gossip about how I mistreated my stepmother and framed her, questioning my worthiness as the Crown Princess. Just because I choose not to dignify your comments with a response doesn't mean I am oblivious to your actions."
"I may not grace gatherings with my presence as often as you do, but rest assured, I am well-informed about what others say about me. I maintained my silence at the Guo Residence, choosing to ignore you, yet I have heard whispers that you didn't cease discussing me at the following gatherings. Do you truly believe I am the forgiving type?"
"I am not a saint, as you rightly pointed out. I will reciprocate the treatment I receive. Extend a friendly hand, and I would embrace it with a smile. Yet, since you have opted for mudslinging, expect nothing less than a response in kind. The choice is yours—remain my eternal enemy or embrace friendship. What's your decision?"
I sincerely ask for your generosity and pardon me." With genuine remorse, she bowed before Yang Ning, offering a sincere apology.
Zhu Yating despised herself for making such a compromise, but she saw no alternative but to seek forgiveness. The looming threat of Wang Rong, who worked at the Royal Palace, added an urgency to her decision—any consequences due to her strained relationship with the Crown Princess could be fatal.
That man would kill her if her strained relationship with Yang Ning affected his work or reputation at the royal court.
Despite her deep-seated animosity towards Yang Ning, Zhu Yating recognized the practical choice for self-preservation. While not exceptionally intelligent, she wasn't foolish either; she understood where her true interests lay. In the face of her resentment towards Yang Ning, Zhu Yating prioritized her life above all else.
Even if it meant submitting to what she deemed a "witch," she was willing to endure it to safeguard her existence.
Yang Ning's lips curled into a satisfied smile as she observed Zhu Yating bowing before her. With a pleased expression, she said, "I'm glad you're intelligent enough to make the right decision for yourself. Since you've apologized, I won't prolong this further and will forgive you. In return, I expect your true loyalty; I don't appreciate those who backstab for generosity."
"Remember, if I can be your friend, it won't take me long to become your biggest enemy. Understand?"
Zhu Yating pursed her lips but nodded, realizing she had no choice but to become friends with Yang Ning—better than facing her as an enemy.
Seeing Zhu Yating agree, Yang Ning smiled and clapped her hands, "That's great. Now that we have resolved our misunderstanding, I will take my leave. I have important work at the palace but don't worry, I will visit you again, my friend." Yang Ning stood up, shook hands with Zhu Yating, and walked past her, opening the chamber door to leave.
Zhu Yating stood in a daze, watching Yang Ning depart, muttering, "What's wrong with this woman? Did she come here just for this?" She wondered aloud.