Chapter 138: Horseback Riding

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“I want to build a villa, not to entertain the nobles from the capital, but mainly for common folk. Ordinary people don’t have enough silver to construct such a place; some wish to live in luxury estates, and my vacation villa will fully satisfy those desires,” Su Liluo slowly explained her idea. The Lord of Anping County gradually began to understand what she meant.

“Sister, will people really want to come here?” The Lord of Anping County was still a bit doubtful. If the price was set too high, how could commoners afford it? She voiced her concern.

Su Liluo smiled and replied, “Of course they will. After having plain porridge and simple dishes for so long, they’d want to taste exotic delicacies. If you were in their shoes, would you want to come?”

The Lord of Anping County thought for a moment and nodded, “Probably yes. It would be like a reward. In that case, this villa can serve as our vacation retreat. Sister, how do you plan to renovate it?”

Su Liluo was surprised, “The county lord can decide? This villa…” Although she hadn’t properly toured outside yet, a quick glance showed it was quite spacious.

The Lord of Anping County smiled proudly, her brow arching, “Mother put this villa under my name, so Sister Liluo can renovate it however you wish. I have no objections.”

Only then did Su Liluo understand the meaning behind her words. She nodded slowly, lost in thought, and said, “Then I will give it careful consideration. I must not disappoint the county lord’s goodwill.”

Before Su Liluo could ponder further, the Lord of Anping County eagerly dragged her outside. Su Liluo frowned and asked, “County lord, what are you planning to do?”

The Lord of Anping County grinned widely, “Naturally, to see the villa! Didn’t you say you wanted to renovate it?”

Unable to resist, Su Liluo took her hand, and a maid helped by holding an umbrella to shield them from the blazing sun.

Looking at a courtyard where servants were cleaning, Su Liluo curiously asked, “Is someone going to live there?”

The maid glanced over and smiled, “Miss, county lord, that was originally Prince Yi’s residence. But the prince left today, so the heir ordered the servants to clean the house, keeping it ready just in case.”

Upon hearing it was previously occupied by Yun Yanyi, the Lord of Anping County lost interest immediately. Su Liluo stared at the house, her eyes briefly glazed over, as if recalling something. The Lord of Anping County called out several times before she snapped back to reality.

“Sister Liluo, what are you looking at?” Seeing her clear gaze, the county lord blinked and asked as Su Liluo remained lost in thought, staring at the courtyard ahead.

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“Nothing, county lord. Didn’t we still want to explore? Let’s hurry,” Su Liluo quickly lowered her head, afraid her thoughts would be discovered. Yet, Yun Yanyi’s gifts—the pastries and medicinal soup—had suited her palate perfectly, and his handsome face lingered persistently in her mind.

The Lord of Anping County pouted in frustration and said gloomily, “Sister Liluo, I feel like your mind isn’t here. Is something troubling you? You haven’t replied while I was speaking.”

Su Liluo lightly tapped her face, dispelling the chaotic thoughts, and shook her head. “County lord, I apologize. What were you saying just now?” She hadn’t caught the words earlier and had to shamelessly ask again.

Seeing her clear and focused eyes, the county lord smiled instead of being upset. “Sister Liluo, I didn’t expect the villa to be so large. It would be wonderful if we could ride horses here. Too bad you don’t know how to ride,” she added, her joyful expression tinged with sadness. Su Liluo’s heart tightened.

Quickly offering comfort, Su Liluo said, “I think riding horses is a great idea. I’d even like you to teach me, so I can learn a new skill.”

The county lord’s happiness shone brightly as she patted her chest and promised, “Since you asked, I will certainly teach you. But only if you can endure the hardships.”

Su Liluo nodded gently. She had already prepared herself mentally—horseback riding required long-term perseverance. Any time she could spend learning would be precious.

“Don’t worry, county lord. I won’t complain about hardship or fatigue. Please be patient with your student, and don’t mind if I’m clumsy,” Su Liluo teased. The county lord laughed heartily.

“Of course not! With such a good student, how could I complain? Otherwise, my brother would nag me endlessly.”

Mentioning the Annan heir, Su Liluo’s face stiffened slightly. The Lord of Anping sighed, “My mistake. Sister, please don’t be upset. If you don’t want to hear about him, I won’t mention it again.” Su Liluo smiled awkwardly, still a bit tense. She hadn’t expected the county lord to bring him up suddenly, and her brief surprise was noticed.

“Not at all, county lord. Let’s just go look ahead,” Su Liluo said, avoiding the topic, hoping that seeing the horses would distract her companion.

The two toured the villa’s grounds, spanning dozens of acres. Melons, fruits, and vegetables were planted around, all grown and sold locally. Fresh produce was sent monthly to the Annan royal residence. It was the county lord’s first time paying attention to this villa.

“Sister, look! The villa is so big; it can definitely attract many visitors. Have you thought of how to renovate it?” The Lord of Anping County looked at the vast land, her heart swelling with excitement. This would be her place to start making money. Her eyes sparkled as if she already saw silver coins flying toward her.

“Don’t worry, county lord. I already have a plan in mind,” Su Liluo replied. The rough scheme was ready; the rest was just execution. Judging by the county lord’s impatient expression, work would begin soon.

“That’s good. With you here, I have nothing to worry about. I heard there’s a stable nearby built especially for the royal household. Why don’t we go see it?” The county lord suggested, and Su Liluo agreed. They were in harmony.

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“Perfect! You can teach me to ride too—killing two birds with one stone,” Su Liluo chuckled softly. The Lord of Anping knew what she meant and blushed with embarrassment.

“Sister, are you laughing at me?” she asked, feigning annoyance.

“Not at all! You’re right. I’m just agreeing with you,” Su Liluo said, stifling her laughter so as not to upset the county lord.

Seeing the county lord and her lady so close, the maids were glad for Su Liluo. The two arrived at the stable and went to see the horses first.

Su Liluo immediately took a liking to a chestnut horse. She reached out to stroke its head, but the horse, quite temperamental, turned away, causing her hand to miss.

“Ah, you really have an arrogant streak. But I must have you,” Su Liluo said. She hadn’t insisted on this particular horse before, but its dismissive attitude stirred her fighting spirit.

“Have you chosen, Sister Liluo?” The county lord had picked a black horse, which seemed very obedient. It was being led nearby, lightly pawing the ground and occasionally snorting.

“Yes, I have. This one,” Su Liluo pointed confidently at the chestnut horse.

The county lord hesitated, “Isn’t this one too spirited for a beginner? You should choose a gentler horse. Why don’t you pick another?”

Su Liluo laughed, running her hand along the horse’s back. “Even the county lord can tell I’m not easily intimidated. You’ll have to cheer me on later.” The horse snorted again, ignoring her words. Su Liluo looked at the county lord and said firmly, “Don’t worry, county lord. It’s just a bit proud, nothing serious. We’ll try riding it first, and if it doesn’t work out, we can switch.”

She liked this horse and didn’t want to choose a different one.

“All right, sister. I’ll help you mount,” the county lord said, grabbing Su Liluo’s hand and giving her advice.