Hwayeong’s flattering words were clearly intended to defuse the situation and avoid any extension of the selection period.
The Empress smiled, clearly amused by her flattery.
“Hwayeong, is it?”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Sinhui asked me to thank you.”
Hwayeong blinked, caught off guard.
“...Pardon?”
“For the album you sent him.”
“Oh... that was merely something I had on hand. I only lent it to His Highness for a short while.”
“I know. He told me he borrowed it through the Crown Prince and seemed quite pleased. He insisted I commend you. However, I can’t show favoritism during the selection process. Let’s share a cup of tea after the selection is over.”
“That would be such an honor, Your Majesty.”
Sinyeong frowned at the sight of Hwayeong being so polite—an entirely different person from her usual self.
The Empress, however, seemed quite taken with her, smiling warmly.
“Are you making good progress with your embroidery?”
