The mistress stared at Jun Huang, trying to discern the truth to her words. Her tone was earnest, though, and her expression genuine.

No one her age would be shrewd enough to lie so convincingly, the mistress thought. Besides, the maid had said Jun Huang hadn’t left her room. It was only natural she’d be in the dark about the intruder.

She relaxed and shared the desserts with Jun Huang. When her youngest daughter came up to them, she patted Jun Huang on the back of her hand. “You must be bored being stuck in the manor. Why don’t you go out with your sisters today and have some fun?”

Jun Huang lowered her eyes and nodded. “Mother is right. I’ll go find them later.”

“Remember to take your maid with you.”

Jun Huang nodded. She knew the mistress was testing her. Since she was getting sick of the interior of her room, it wouldn’t hurt for her to go outsid...