Chapter 60

Chapter 60

The clock ticked quietly, indicating the first hour of the night, Hài.

Pei Muheng leaned on a small table, his eyes filled with a cold, dark gaze that fixated on her. A tense aura enveloped him.

Xu Yunqi had originally come for this matter, but due to the letter from her maternal grandfather, it had been delayed. She didn't plan on hiding it from him anyway. It was best to be open about the child.

"The case regarding my maternal grandfather is a serious matter. If I were pregnant, it might cause trouble for both of us later. After our intimate encounter, I administered a needle treatment to prevent conception... Today, when you insisted on taking my pulse, I couldn't bear to deceive you any longer, so I've decided to tell you the truth."

These words struck him like a bolt of lightning.

Pei Muheng felt a black veil sweep across his vision as if countless chattering crows were circling around his forehead, causing his blood to rush to his temples.

He, who was usually the most perceptive, found himself unable to grasp the meaning behind these words.

Did she not want to have his child?

He found it hard to fathom how he could be happily entwined with her in love and passion, only for her to turn around and 'terminate' their child without emotion.

If he could comprehend the situation with Elder Zhang earlier, the matter of contraception had crossed a line he would not tolerate. He couldn't understand it, nor could he accept it.

The usually composed expression was on the verge of shattering.

After Xu Yunqi finished speaking, his dark eyelashes drooped, and he dared not look at her face.

Silence fell upon the room, as if it were devoid of life. The man across from her breathed heavily, his gaze piercing like knives into her cheeks. Xu Yunqi felt overwhelmed.

Predictably, he abruptly swept his wide sleeves, toppling the small table on the Buddhist monk's bed. His favorite purple sand tea set crashed to the ground with a sharp sound. Then, his tall figure loomed over her, his long arm gripping her jaw and forcing her to look at him.

"Pei Muhang, how could you be so heartless?!" His eyes were bloodshot, and his face was dark with anger, as if it could drip water.

Looking at him in this state, Xu Yunqi felt lost and confused.

When she decided to come to the study, she never expected such a strong reaction from Pei Muhang. In her view, given his temperament, he would still be able to sit down and discuss things calmly even if he was angry. But when he said those words and became so furious, she began to realize that he... that he valued their marriage more than she had imagined.

Xu Yunqi's thoughts were in disarray.

Afraid that his anger might escalate, she softly tried to explain,

"Third Master, if you hold a grudge against me, I have no defense. Yet, there were reasons behind my actions. We can choose whether or not to have a child, but the child has no choice in its parents... We cannot prioritize our own desires and fleeting pleasures at the expense of the child's safety."

"Even if we cannot guarantee her the best future, we must at least provide her with a secure home. Grandfather's affairs are perilous, and your struggle for the throne is equally treacherous. I hope, Third Master, that you understand my intentions..."

She couldn't allow her child to suffer the same fate as she had.

Pei Muheng's gaze cut through the air, his eyes, once bright like a clear moonlit night, now darkened with an overwhelming intensity.

"What would you do if I insist on sharing the same bed?"

Xu Yunqi, aware that it was not the right time to confront him head-on, softly engaged him in a discussion.

"Isn't it better for us to nurture a child in peace once the dust has settled?"

Pei Muqing scoffed, "Have you ever considered trusting me more, surrendering yourself entirely to me? You need to believe that I can protect you and our child."

These words ignited Xu Yunqi's true nature once more. Her gaze calmly met his, and she gently pressed her tongue against her teeth. Her tone returned to its usual composed manner.

"I would never utterly surrender myself to anyone, at any moment."

Grandfather had always used Mother Zhang as an example, teaching her to remain independent and clear-headed, never to be trapped by love.

Peng Mucheng was suddenly reminded of that night at Qingshan Temple when she told Xun Yunhe that she would not waste her life because of anyone's absence. Back then, he felt half admiration and half envy. Now, those same words were directed at him, leaving only raw pain.

Peng Mucheng narrowed his eyes, fixating on Xu Yunqi, who had been pushed into the corner of the couch. Her delicate, fragile arms curled up protectively, her bright almond-shaped eyes filled with tears as they gazed at him. A blush spread across her fair cheeks, mixed with tear stains. He held her slender wrists in his palm, feeling her supple body sway beneath him, trying to break free but unable to.

He had always known how slim and soft her waist was, how sweet her dewy lips tasted, and how her fiery blood pulsed with desire. He was acutely aware of what he wanted right now.

The rain outside drowned out all other noise, sealing them within this confined space. Intimacy hung in the air, their noses almost touching, allowing them to inhale each other's breath. He could already detect her warm, alluring scent, tantalizing his senses.

Her dark eyelashes fluttered gently, but those moon-like eyes remained clear and composed. There was no bashfulness or lingering affection.

Peng Mucheng's gaze grew darker, a hint of self-mockery tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Force her? Was he, Peng Mucheng, really that desperate?

The flames of anger in his eyes eventually dwindled, leaving only ashes behind. He released her, stepping back slowly and turning to lean on the table, refusing to look at her anymore.

Xu Yunqi's tense spine relaxed, and she expelled a soft breath. Staring blankly at his tall, slender figure for a moment, she rose, removed her cloak, and left swiftly.

In the depths of autumn, the chill wind carried dense rain that seeped through the cracks in the window, splashing against his cheeks. Pei Muheng had stood at the desk for half an hour without realizing it, the green tinge on his face fading, but his heart feeling hollow like an empty plain.

Back then, when the Wang Fu criticized her and the entire capital mocked her, she remained unperturbed, maintaining her composure. He was grateful then to have married such a generous wife. Now, with the truth laid bare before him, it was a different story.

She simply didn't care.

If she had genuinely delayed pregnancy for the safety of their child, he could have accepted it. But he knew deep down that it wasn't just that. She feared the child would bind her to this marriage, hold her back.

She came to the capital for her maternal grandfather, and stayed for him. But what after finding him?

Pei Muheng didn't dare to ponder this thought.

He dozed off on the Buddhist bed, oblivious through the night. As dawn approached the next day, he woke up as usual, momentarily disoriented. Gradually regaining his composure, he sat up at the desk.

With his fingers pressed against his forehead, he called for Wang Fan. Only upon speaking did he realize his throat felt dry.

Wang Fan soon entered, and Pei Muheng's mind flashed back to the events of the previous night. Most of his anger had subsided, but the sourness in his chest lingered. He was undoubtedly still upset, unable to speak to her calmly just yet.

He instructed softly, "Find my wife in the rear courtyard and ask her to draw a portrait of her maternal grandfather."

One could not determine the truth solely based on handwriting; an image and specific details were needed to narrow down the search.

Wang Fan promptly exited the study and followed the faint glow of light to Qinghui Garden. He immediately instructed the gatekeeper to summon Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi had only fallen asleep late into the night.

She had said everything that needed to be said and disclosed all she could. If Pei Muheng still couldn't understand, there was nothing more she could do.

Initially, she had been worried about her maternal grandfather and unable to sleep. But upon realizing that news would be a good thing, she eventually fell into a sound slumber. Now, she was roused from her sleep by Chen Ma, who had just gotten out of bed. Hearing that Wang Fan was coming, Xu Yunqi knew it was urgent. She quickly got dressed and called for Wang Fan. Upon his arrival, Wang Fan conveyed Pei Muheng's intentions. Xu Yunqi then drew a sketch and gave numerous instructions.

"This is the secret code between my maternal grandfather and me. Just send the code, and he will respond."

With the portrait in hand, Wang Fan returned to the study. Pei Muheng took one look but didn't comment. He promptly arranged his troops and dispatched them to Tongzhou and Yingzhou to search for the person.

Given the gravity of the situation, Pei Muheng could not sit idle. Early in the morning, he headed to court. It had to be said that Doctor Fan's caution was justified. Even though Pei Muheng knew the matter involved the palace, he dared not act rashly. He planned to consult Xun Yunhe and discuss a solid plan before taking action.

Unfortunately, just as they reached this critical juncture, a matter arose in the imperial court. Throughout history, emperors, to commemorate their achievements, had often dreamed of following in the footsteps of the First Emperor and performing the Taishan Sacrifice. The current emperor was no exception, especially given his advanced age and deteriorating health, which made him fear that time was running out. The desire for the ceremony grew stronger, but the emperor was well aware that the national treasury was not abundant. The sacrificial ceremony would burden the people and drain the coffers, so he dared not undertake it lightly. Sensing the emperor's thoughts, someone suggested sending envoys to Mount Taishan to offer sacrifices on behalf of the emperor, praying for blessings. The emperor agreed.

Officials aligned with Pei Xun seized the opportunity to present petitions, urging the emperor to appoint the legitimate son of the Empress as the crown prince and allowing Pei Xun to make the pilgrimage to Mount Tai on the emperor's behalf.

Seeing through this scheme, Pei Muheng was determined not to let it succeed. He knew all too well the emperor's suspicions and acted accordingly, secretly signaling his own faction to support the proposal. Even Yan Ping submitted a memorial in favor of Pei Xun. Now, public opinion had turned, and Pei Xun, as the legitimate son of the Empress, seemed capable of summoning storms. What would happen when Pei Xun became the crown prince? Would the court officials still respect the emperor?

Pei Xun stood in the center of the grand hall, a cold smile playing on his lips.

Sure enough, the emperor was displeased by this move. At that moment, Prince Qin stepped forward to object,

"My twelfth brother has only recently recovered from his leg injury. A long journey would hinder his recuperation. It would be more appropriate for this son to represent our father on this imperial tour."

Sending Prince Qin was out of the question. The emperor, with a casual expression, relented, "Your words hold some merit. Xun'er should remain in the capital to focus on his recovery. In that case..." The emperor's rough fingers tapped on the dragon-embroidered throne, his gaze finally settling on Xun Yunhe,

"Minister Xun is the head of all officials. You will represent me on this journey to Mount Tai, offering sacrifices to heaven, the people of the Great Jin, and praying for our nation's prosperity."

And so, Xun Yunhe was dispatched from the capital, leaving Pei Muheng no chance to discuss the matter of Elder Zhang with him. Frustrated, he had no desire to return home.

Pei Muheng spent the night in the official district as well.

Xu Yunqi had not been oblivious to Pei Musheng's whereabouts. At the end of the day, she sent Chen Ma to inquire in the main courtyard. As dusk fell, Chen Ma returned, her face dusty and her eyes dark with concern.

"His Highness won't be coming back tonight."

Xu Yunqi did not think much of it, as Pei Musheng often stayed out of the palace.

The third day arrived, the tenth of October. There was a tradition in the palace that on every tenth day, the family would dine together at the Jinhé Hall.

Pei Musheng rarely missed such occasions.

Arriving early at Jinhé Hall, Xu Yunqi frequently glanced towards the entrance. When Pei Mushulan was around, the family dinners were lively. Now that she was gone, the atmosphere felt rather desolate. Pei Mushulan was introverted, while Li Xuanyan, being pregnant, dared not speak up for fear of reminding the Xī Wangfei of sorrowful memories. Madam Xie was always composed, and Xu Yunqi herself was no exception. The family sat in silence, as if the air had been sucked out of the room.

Coincidentally, the butler entered to inform them that Pei Musheng had official duties and could not return home. The excitement on the Xī Wangfei's face waned even further.

Bored, she twirled her chopsticks idly, stealing glances at Xu Yunqi from time to time.

After much restraint, the Xī Wangfei still asked Xu Yunqi to stay behind after the meal. This was probably the first private conversation between the two since their marriage.

Princess Xi maintained a gentle expression as she asked, "Yunqi, how has your health been lately? Have you been consuming the bird's nest every day?"

Ever since Elder Lady Yan provoked her, Princess Xi had been sending bird's nest to Xu Yunqi daily. After Xu Yunqi treated her with acupuncture twice, her migraine had not recurred for quite some time. She considered it a token of gratitude for her daughter-in-law. The other daughters-in-law dared not comment on the matter.

Xu Yunqi perceived Princess Xi's thoughts and didn't beat around the bush. Instead, she straightforwardly said, "Mother, I'm aware of what worries you. Let me be honest with you. Although Third Master and I have been married for a year, we only consummated our marriage half a year later. Moreover, Third Master spent two months in Miaojiang after that. He has only been truly present in the residence for a little over four months. With his busy official duties, he doesn't return home every day. You've seen for yourself today, so I'm afraid it's too soon to expect a grandchild."

Xu Yunqi's words left Princess Xi shaken.

Pei Muheng and Xu Yunqi only consummated their marriage six months after their wedding.

Heavens.

Princess Xi felt as if the ground beneath her was crumbling, almost causing her to lose her balance. In the past, she was afraid that Xu Yunqi would cling onto her son without understanding the severity of the situation. Little did she know that the girl had silently endured such a great injustice. Princess Xi's mouth gaped open for a while, and a dull ache pierced her heart.

"Yunqi... Why have you never mentioned this before?"

When Princess Xi spoke those words, she felt a pang of regret. Everyone in the city knew how she had treated Xu Yunqi initially. Now, asking such a question made her feel rather embarrassed.

Just as she expected Xu Yunqi to mock her, he remained composed and indifferent,

"It's unnecessary to discuss this. It's a private matter between husband and wife. Both I and Third Master need time to adjust to each other."

Princess Xi's forehead throbbed with anxiety. She dared not contemplate the consequences if Xun Yunhe were to find out. That Prime Minister had been diligently escorting his daughter to and from the palace recently. Once he heard of this, Xun Yunhe would undoubtedly retrieve his daughter immediately.

A cold sweat broke out on Princess Xi's forehead. Without hesitation, she grasped Xu Yunqi's hand,

"Yunqi, this matter is our palace's fault. I will reprimand Heng'er..."

Xu Yunqi smoothly withdrew her hand, her smile gently interrupting the words on the tip of her mother's tongue. "Mother, I speak not to incite your reproach against Third Master, but rather to assure you that there is no need for further urging regarding the matter of children. Yunqi and Third Master are well aware of our responsibilities in this regard; please rest assured."

Following that, Xu Yunqi took his leave.

Princess Xi watched her retreating figure, unable to utter a word for a long while.

Prince Xi emerged from behind the screen, also wearing an expression of utter disbelief, though given his son's character, it wasn't entirely unexpected.

Seeing his wife on the verge of tears but unable to cry, he quickly reassured her, "There, there, both of them are capable and know what they're doing. You can put your heart at ease."

Princess Xi dabbed away her tears, her voice choked with emotion, "I just feel so guilty towards her... Back then, when I favored her, she never complained. Despite my poor health, she put aside any resentment to heal me. If she had scolded me just now, I might have felt a little better, but she didn't..."

Prince Xi laughed heartily, "Third Sister-in-law has a broad and forgiving nature. As a healer, she saves lives and sees through life and death. These matters likely hold no weight in her eyes. If you don't dwell on it, there will be no issue."

Princess Xi sniffled and looked at Prince Xi sullenly, asking the question that weighed heaviest on her mind, "Her generosity is commendable, but does she truly care for our son?"

"Well..." Prince Xi found it difficult to respond.

Who could have predicted that Princess Xi, who once strongly disapproved of Xu Yunqi's background, would now be so anxious about Xu Yunqi not having feelings for their son, constantly fearing that she might leave?

Upon Xu Yunqi's return to Qinghui Garden, Yingxing emerged from the apothecary.

"Miss, I've prepared the recipe for the donkey-hide gelatin. We can start boiling it tomorrow morning, and taking a piece each day will keep you warm throughout the winter," Yingxing said with a smile.

After digestion, the mistress and servant entered the room for their evening rituals of washing and tidying up. Then, they nestled together in the warm chamber.

As the night deepened and the dew grew heavy, a solitary bird flapped its wings past the lustrous window. Yingxing lay with Xu Yunqi under the covers, continually stealing glances outside.

"Miss, I think Young Master is still upset with you. He hasn't returned home for three days," said Silver Apricot, pressing herself into Yunqi's arms.

Xu Yunqi, half-asleep, mumbled, "Mmm..."

Silver Apricot turned to look at her and suggested, "Dear Miss, should we go and console him, considering how he helped us find Father?"

Upon hearing this, Xu Yunqi's mind went blank for a moment.

That night, she had laid out all the facts and consequences, prepared for a peaceful parting. Yet, despite her readiness, the man took over the situation without hesitation. It was impossible for Xu Yunqi to say that she wasn't affected.

However, Pei Muheng's relentless questioning had made her uncomfortable.

She had never truly examined their marriage. She had adapted to the circumstances, taking each day as it came. As long as he allowed her to practice medicine and treated her with respect and independence, she believed they could live peacefully together. But now, events had clearly exceeded her expectations.

Pei Muheng wanted more than she had imagined.

Lost in thought, Xu Yunqi couldn't make sense of the situation. She rubbed her temples and turned onto her side.

"Perhaps it's best not to bother with consoling men," she decided.

She wouldn't.

At the third quarter of the ninth hour of the night, Pei Muheng secretly returned to the palace.

Xu Yunqi was accustomed to retiring at this hour, and Pei Muheng had gradually ingrained this time into his subconscious.

Huang Wei respectfully accompanied him towards the third residence,

"Third Master, shall you rest in the rear courtyard today?"

Huang Wei was well aware of the dispute between the couple. By asking this, he clearly hoped that Pei Muheng would reconcile with Xu Yunqi.

Pei Muheng paused at the sloping corridor steps, lifting his gaze to the night sky. Fine rain swayed in the air, countless raindrops dancing wildly in the light of the lamps. His handsome face was hidden in the shadows, making it difficult to discern his expression. After a moment, he faintly lifted his eyelids toward Qinghui Garden before turning back to his study.

These past two days, Pei Muheng's emotions had been complicated.

He had never been an easy person to deal with, but he was always gentle and amiable with his wife. He firmly believed that a truly capable man would never show off in front of his spouse. Thus, he treated Xu Yunqi with warmth and consideration, doing his utmost to support her and attend to her feelings. When she wanted to practice medicine, he even convinced himself to accommodate her.

However, Xu Yunqi's refusal to conceive had truly pushed him to the limits of his tolerance.

Such an impasse was against Pei Muheng's usual principles.

To continue coddling her as if nothing had happened would be a bitter pill to swallow.

He wasn't quite sure what kind of psychology was at play here.

He found himself longing for her to take the initiative in reconciling, even just once.