Zhou Huailing did have feelings for Gu Ruxue, but that was mostly because she was the Phoenix Girl. However, he did not like it if she became clever.
The Gu Mansion used to be a very minor mansion in the past, and Gu Ruxue could not even be considered a noble lady. The only thing that was a little different was that there used to be a Princess Gu born in the mansion. As he approached Gu Ruxue, the whole mansion started to suck up to him.
He was very happy to be treated like that. And he was happy that Gu Ruxue was the Phoenix Girl too! However, what he had not expected was that one day, Gu Ruxue would become smart! She was clearly aware of how important she was as the Phoenix Girl.
What Gu Ruxue had said was simply telling him that there were many lords in the capital whilst there was only one Phoenix Girl in the whole world. She also indicated that she could choose whoever she wanted, and that person she chose would become the heir.