V2: Chapter 83: Miss, Who Exactly Do You Like?
A direct approach is definitely out of the question.
Well, if I really can't think of a solution, a direct approach isn't out of the question. But then again, I feel that someone as straightforward as Liang Lin wouldn't understand if I tried to be indirect.
Natalie tossed and turned in bed all night, unable to come up with a solution. The next morning, she got out of bed with dark circles under her eyes.
"Xiaoling, tell me, how do I find out someone's feelings?"
Natalie's eyes were dull and lifeless.
The maid, Xiaoling, replied nonchalantly, "With your status, position, and appearance, Miss, is there even a need to confirm? Just tell him directly, and I don't believe anyone would refuse."
"It's like this, no," Natalie hesitated, finally blurting it out, "Well… it's not about me. How should I ask someone? How can I subtly inquire whether someone likes someone else? It's not me."
"Ah....."
Xiaoling scratched her head. She could sense that her mistress had been troubled by love lately, so preoccupied with romance. It was unlike her mistress's usual self, and it pained her to see. She wondered whose ungrateful young master was, repeatedly tormenting her mistress's feelings.
"So, you're saying, Miss, the young master you like has a woman he likes?"
Xiaoling grew up with Natalie, so she naturally spoke frankly and wasn't afraid of offending Natalie. She was indignant, standing up for her young mistress.
"Really! Is that man blind? Our young lady is so wonderful, and he doesn't even like her, preferring other women!"
Xiaoling spoke while vigorously wiping the pots and pans. Although her mouth was constantly talking, her hands never stopped moving.
"No, no!"
Natalie blushed crimson.
She didn't know how to explain, or what to explain.
In the end, her explanation was:
"I don't like a young master, but a young lady..."
".....Hah?!"
The maid, Xiaoling, was stunned for a moment, then let out a sharp, piercing scream.
"What young lady?! You said you like... you like... a young lady?!"
Natalie's face turned bright red.
She quickly stood up, disregarding her ladylike demeanor and image, reached out, grabbed Xiaoling's hand, and with a swift movement, pinned Xiaoling down, covering her mouth.
"Shh, shh, shh, keep your voice down! It's not good if others hear this..."
Xiaoling's eyes were filled with shock, but she still obediently nodded.
When Natalie released Xiaoling, the shock in Xiaoling's eyes had lessened considerably.
“Xiaoling, sigh, never mind, I won’t ask you anymore. You’ve never even been in a relationship.”
Natalie sat back down, sullen, resting her chin on her hands, gazing out the window, her thoughts wandering far away.
“Besides, even if you did like someone, it would definitely be a handsome man, or some young master. There’s no reason for you to like a young lady like me. I know it’s a bit strange of me, liking someone of the same sex…”
“It’s not strange at all, Miss!”
The maid Xiaoling immediately retorted. “Miss must have her reasons for doing this! Someone Miss likes must be an exceptionally outstanding young lady! I support Miss, I will always support Miss!”
These words touched Natalie.
But, touched as she was, she still held no hope that Xiaoling would offer any advice.
“Then you don’t know what to do either…”
“I know!” Xiaoling interrupted, raising her hand. “I know! I can give you advice, Miss!”
“Then… tell me?”
Natalie was skeptical.
Xiaoling held up one finger.
"To win the heart of someone you admire, you must first make them notice you. Showcase your charm through exquisite attire, elegant manners, and profound knowledge. Wear gorgeous clothes and fine jewelry, walking with a light and graceful gait. In social situations, take the initiative to communicate with the lady you admire, sharing your insights and experiences to bridge the gap between you."
"After attracting their attention, you must delve into their interests and personality traits. Carefully observe their words and actions to find common ground and shared interests. Actively inquire about their views on art, music, literature, etc., to initiate in-depth conversations. During these conversations, showcase your talent and knowledge, letting them perceive your unique charm."
Natalie looked at her maid with a dazed expression.
"Xiaoling, I didn't ask how to pursue the young lady; I... I asked how to subtly approach her."
"Oh, oh, oh!"
Xiaoling, as if waking from a dream, cleared her throat.
"Miss, don't rush, I'll share my insights now. When you want to find out who the lady's crush is, you should use a subtle and indirect approach, subtly probing to avoid the awkwardness or offense that direct questioning might cause."
"Be observant and carefully listen to the words and actions of the other lady, gleaning clues about your crush. Pay attention to changes in her expression when she mentions certain topics, or the eye contact she makes when talking to someone, to infer her possible emotional inclinations."
"Besides direct observation and guiding the conversation, you can also use other methods to indirectly understand the feelings of the lady you admire. You can inquire with her close friends or relatives, or obtain clues from court attendants or servants. While this indirect information may not be entirely accurate, it can still provide valuable insights!"
"Throughout this process, you must always maintain a respectful and cautious attitude. Everyone has their own privacy and rights, so do not excessively interfere with or pry into the other person's feelings. Even if you are eager, express your feelings in a tactful and graceful manner, avoiding putting unnecessary pressure or trouble on the other person."
Natalie: "....."
"What you said is as good as saying nothing at all. Your idea is simply... uh."
"Fine, I'll think about it myself."
Natalie stood up.
"Prepare a carriage for me. I'm going to the Langwendi mansion now."
Oh well, I'll think about it on the way.
If all else fails, I'll just be direct.
Natalie gritted her teeth. Even if she's doing all the work for someone else, she'll accept it!
Author's Note
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