Chapter 021: The Handsome Man Effect

“Jin’er, wake up, we’re about to leave.”

Jin’er opened her eyes, and the first thing she saw was that flawless, handsome face. Her mood soared at once, but as memories of her recent dream surfaced, her good spirits vanished in an instant.

Damn it, why does she have no spiritual power? She had only just rekindled her confidence, believing she possessed enormous potential, finally seeing hope for a more brilliant life—at least she wouldn’t be so easily bullied anymore. But now…

A long sigh echoed in her heart. Jin’er rose reluctantly, following Nangong Che as they continued their journey, but her mind couldn't help circling the question of spiritual power.

After pondering for a long time, she reached a conclusion: Could it be that Princess Jin’er is not the trueborn child of the Emperor of the Wood Kingdom?

No, no, no! That can’t be. As soon as the thought arose, Jin’er quickly dismissed it.

If this guess were wrong, wouldn’t it be an insult to her mother? If her mother’s spirit in heaven heard it, she would surely be heartbroken.

Oh, childish words, just childish words…

After traveling a while, Jin’er, exhausted from a sleepless night, finally succumbed to heavy drowsiness on horseback, her head drooping as she slipped into sleep.

Nangong Che sensed something was off with the girl in his arms—she seemed to be leaning left. He glanced down. Good heavens, was she really asleep atop a galloping horse?

He couldn’t help but smile wryly, shaking his head. Clearly, she trusted him completely…

Nangong Che gently straightened her body and tightened his arm around her, continuing their relentless ride.

At last, their group arrived at Junzhou. No sooner had they entered the city than Nangong Che drew countless gazes, especially from the women.

Jin’er, just recently awakened, sat upright on horseback, somewhat vexed by the fervent stares that seemed to pierce through her and land squarely on Nangong Che behind her, stirring up a nameless fire in her heart.

Weren’t women in ancient times supposed to be reserved? Why were they all practically drooling? Even that one—at fifty or sixty, hair gone gray—was still making a lovestruck face, as if she wished to marry him!

Heavens, Jin’er really felt the urge to roll her eyes and tumble off the horse.

Under countless heated stares, the group arrived at a tavern. The diligent waiter hurried over to lead their horses to the backyard, while Nangong Che and his companions strode straight into the establishment.

Inside, Nangong Che pulled Jin’er to sit at a table by themselves, while the others took seats at two separate tables. The patrons, men and women alike, all turned to look at them, whispering among themselves.

Jin’er rolled her eyes, starting to understand why modern celebrities wear sunglasses when going out.

She glanced over and found Nangong Che unfazed, calm and composed, seemingly indifferent to everyone’s attention.

Yes, truly unfazed. He must be used to it…

Just then, dish after delicious dish was brought out, and Jin’er’s eyes sparkled with delight. She forgot her earlier annoyance, unable to resist picking up her chopsticks, but finally restrained herself and looked up at Nangong Che.

“Eat,” Nangong Che said, smiling at her greedy look, picking up a piece of fragrant braised pork and placing it in her bowl.

Jin’er pursed her lips, a little embarrassed, but no longer stood on ceremony. She lowered her head and ate with relish.

Nangong Che didn’t rush to eat but poured himself a cup of wine, sipping it elegantly as he watched her with a faint smile.

As Jin’er ate, she began to feel a strange sensation. She looked up and met his gaze, freezing for a moment.

Why was he watching her instead of eating?