Chapter 603 - Chapter 603: Chapter 609 (1/2)
Chapter 603: Chapter 609
“The construction of the greenhouse and the design of the Heavenly Pavilion were both conceived by the same person, weren’t they? Such talent is indeed remarkable. I wonder if Madam Han could introduce me, as I would very much like to meet this extraordinary person,” Chen Li was overly eager to know the answer, because it was not only curiosity at play, but also her interests. It could even risk exposing her own status.
Even if Chen Li was reckless and scornful of the era’s rules, she knew that if her origins were exposed, it would lead to dire consequences. Initially, she had been overconfident, thinking that her transmigration made her the protagonist and that no one would detect her. Thus, she acted without concern. However, if someone really came from the same place as she did, they could easily sense the discrepancy and guess her background, whereas she knew nothing about them.
Chen Li herself was no saint; her desires were strong, and she was fiercely persistent about power. So, when speculating about others, she assumed the worst, ensuring she wouldn’t be at a disadvantage. She didn’t believe that someone from her past would be kind-hearted or refrain from harming her. People are greedy, and for their own interest, they can do anything.
Nevertheless, regarding Su Wenyue’s words, Chen Li did not suspect her. Although she once had her doubts, once she truly met Su Wenyue, she could tell that she was entirely an ancient woman, devoted to her husband as if he were her heaven. She exhibited none of the distinct qualities and differences a modern woman should have. Chen Li believed that even if Su Wenyue tried to conceal it, she could sense it – no matter how skilled her acting. Therefore, she subconsciously believed Su Wenyue, thinking that her compatriot was someone else in hiding.
However, Su Wenyue was indeed a bona fide ‘ancient person.’ Chen Li never expected to meet another transmigrated woman, let alone one who had been reborn. It was just her speculation about all the things that shouldn’t exist in this era that had led to this series of guesses.
After Chen Li finished speaking, she saw Su Wenyue looking at her with an almost smiling expression. Only then did Chen Li realize her haste and imprudence in asking such questions. She had forgotten even the most basic of facts—that even in modern times, such technical secrets would not be casually disclosed, let alone in ancient times. Although it wasn’t too difficult for her to work out these matters, Su Wenyue didn’t know her background and must have become guarded because of her words.
“Madam Han, please don’t misunderstand. I am not trying to pry into business secrets, I am simply curious,” Chen Li hastily explained, holding a favorable impression of Su Wenyue and keen on befriending her. She did not want Su Wenyue to misunderstand her, but such an explanation felt insufficient, and certain truths, especially those revealing her origin, could not be disclosed.
Su Wenyue was just as sensitive as Chen Li, if not more so. Whether a time-traveler or someone reborn, having a secret made one exceedingly cautious, fearing any inadvertent slip that might reveal something and elicit a guard. She naturally did not fully trust the sincerity and curiosity Chen Li demonstrated.
It wasn’t just a matter of trust but some things simply could not be shared. As a local girl, she knew all too well what revealing her secret would entail, and the consequences were not something she could bear.
“I know Miss Chen is curious, but as a merchant yourself, you should understand the importance of trade secrets. If I disclose them, I wouldn’t be able to carry on with my business. Miss Chen holds numerous business secrets as well. Surely you wouldn’t reveal them just because someone is curious? So please forgive me, I truly cannot tell you.”