Between The Pages {Liu Yuxin x Reader}

Y/N

Xueer had been jittering uncontrollably since I got here. She was even already awake and waiting when I arrived. It was clear that something was bothering her. I couldn't even talk to her properly because all she'd respond with were short, single-word answers.

 "Xueer, is something bothering you?" I finally asked out as another moment passed and she remained unresponsive. "Why are you so nervous?"

"Today's the day, Aihan." She answered and smiled at me through the mirror.

"Day for what?" I asked as I handed her a clip for her hair.

"Remember the girl I told you about? The one I'm writing to?" She asked, making me nod my head in answer as I tried to see where she was getting at. "Their family is visiting today. I would finally see her again."

Well, that explains it. I couldn't help but feel just as excited for her. This type of thing probably only happens in books - well I guess that's why this is happening. I am in a book. That fact still takes time to wrap my head around.

"Really? Why are you only telling me this now?" I huffed as I poked her shoulder. "We literally gushed over her last night and you didn't even tell me this detail."

"I'm sorry. Father visited me late last night to tell me. The memorandum of the visit must have arrived just then." She explained. "I don't think I have slept well because of that. I have never felt this nervous and excited before. What would she think of me, Aihan? What do you think-"

"I'm sure she'll think you're great." I cut off her rambling and squeezed her shoulder. "You're the Lady Xueer. Sure, you make losers jump into the lake and act like ducks-"

"Aihan."

"But..." I continued as she narrowed her eyes at me. "I think that makes you more likable. You're fun and nice and pretty." I finished and gave her a grin.

I guess my attempt to comfort her really did work as she soon broke out into a smile. "I could only hope you're right."

"I am," I stated, making her laugh again. "Alright. Is there still anything I could help you with?" I asked out as she pushed the last pin into her head and I stood back.

She shook her head in answer. " I could manage on my own. But I heard one of the helpers mention something about a problem in the kitchen. You should go, Aihan. I reckon I need some time alone to... gather myself anyway."

"If that's what you want." I gave her a smile as I turned away. I could actually use the time to explore the area as well. Maybe I'd find a solution to my... predicament.

"Wait!" I stopped and turned back to Xueer as she called out. "I'll need you beside me at noon. That's when the guests will arrive and I'll need..." She trailed off and gave me a nervous smile.

"Support?" I guessed. "Don't worry, I'll be there to make sure you don't faint at first sight." I grinned and ran off.

"Aihan!" I heard her yell out but I just continued running.

Once I was far enough, I slowed down. Her life is indeed a typical fairytale. She's the daughter of the Duke of the land and of course, in every story, there's always the romantic lead.

It didn't really take me too long to find the kitchens. I just followed the billowing smoke in the air and the chaotic clatters of panicked chefs and helpers and I soon found myself in a clearing past a big archway. I guess this visit really is last minute. Almost everyone is in a frenzy. Some are furiously running back and forth from one station to another. Some are stirring pots and woks half their size. But the scariest ones are the cooks handling the knives. let's just say they're the last ones on earth I want to mess with.