Chapter 10

Master was a man known for his self-restraint; no matter how severe his injuries, he maintained an unreadable expression. Chang Ji and Heng Ping, having served him since childhood and shared life-and-death experiences with him, could easily discern his true feelings from his face.

Chang Ji's incessant chatter reminded Gu Changjin of the heart-wrenching pain he had experienced in his dream the previous night.

It had been a long time since he last dreamed. Perhaps he had consumed too much alcohol the night before, as it led him to experience such vivid dreams once more.

The scene in his dream was hazy, leaving him unable to discern any details or retain any memories, save for the persistent, excruciating pain. Trapped within the dream, he couldn't awaken until Rong Shu reached out and touched him, freeing him from the nightmare.

Back then, the young lady's hand was clasped in his own, yet she didn't cry out in pain. Instead, she stared at him with her wide, bewildered eyes. Her tiny face, buried in a mass of dark hair, resembled a moonlit, translucent jade in the darkness.

Gu Changjin gently furrowed his brow, dispelling the image of the beauty that had just formed in his mind. He asked softly, "Has Shiiun replied?"

"Yes, Your Excellency. I returned to Songsi Courtyard this afternoon specifically to retrieve the letter, which I've kept on me ever since," replied Chang Ji, drawing a letter from his sleeve. "Shiiun says that Lady Rong left the capital at the age of four and spent nine years with her maternal grandparents in Yangzhou. She only returned to the Cheng'an Marquis Estate when she was thirteen."

Gu Changjin unfolded the letter and swiftly scanned its contents.

The letter detailed every aspect of Rong Shu's nine years in Yangzhou. From the information provided, she seemed like a typical maiden from a noble family, with nothing particularly remarkable about her.

If that was the case, why did Xu Fu want him to marry her? Was it for the Rong family, or the Shen family?

Xu Fu was not one to engage in futile actions or employ useless individuals.

There must be a purpose behind his marriage to Rong Shu.

Gu Changjin pursed his lips in deep contemplation, tapping the letter with his slender index finger. After a moment, he took up the candlestick, set fire to the letter, and tossed it into the tripod bronze brazier by his feet.

It was not the time to provoke suspicion; he would wait for a while longer.

Someone had already informed the Songsi Courtyard early that morning about Gu Changjin's overnight stay in the study. Naturally, it was Chang Ji, a skilled communicator with an acute sense of observing others' moods.

"Master is known for his dedication to work, often neglecting sleep and food. He spent the whole day at the Ministry of Punishments yesterday and found Madam asleep when he returned. To avoid disturbing her, he decided to spend the night in the study," said Chang Ji, bowing and scratching his head, addressing Xu Fu as "Dear Sister" repeatedly.

Ying Que had initially worn a fierce expression, but softened upon witnessing Chang Ji's sincerity. "Our Miss has always understood Lord's busy schedule. She didn't mind having dinner alone yesterday. However, don't take advantage of her good nature by disappearing for a whole day without a word. At least send a message back so she doesn't have to wait anxiously."

Inside, Yingyue heard Ying Que's words and frowned, ready to go out. Rong Shu stopped her with a smile. "It's alright. Chang Ji won't be upset, nor will he spread any rumors."

Gu Changjin had two attendants, one a smooth-talking charmer and the other a skilled warrior who kept to himself. Both were fiercely loyal to Gu Changjin, never divulging anything they shouldn't, nor causing trouble for their master.

Sure enough, as Rong Shu's words fell, Chang Ji promptly replied, "It's my fault, it's all my fault. My master asked me to pass a message when I returned, but I got caught up in other tasks and forgot. Next time, I'll definitely send word to the residence."

Ying Que, with her straightforward personality, saw Chang Ji slapping his own mouth, seemingly willing to take any scolding, and her anger dissipated. Just as she was about to respond, a gentle voice interrupted from behind.

"Is Lord still in the study?"

Chang Ji, with his hands clasped together and bowed, was waiting for Ying Que's reply. The sudden soft and pleasant voice startled him.

Looking up, he saw Rong Shu draped in a thin white cloak and holding a gilded copper hand warmer as she emerged from the house.

Chang Ji straightened his posture, lowered his gaze, and respectfully said, "In response to Madam, Master has just finished his breakfast and is preparing to go to the Ministry of Justice for his duties."

"Then please lead the way. I have something to discuss with him," Rong Shu said.

Chapter 5

Chang Ji was intrigued, unable to fathom what Rong Shu wanted to discuss with the master so early in the day. Despite his curiosity, he knew that, on the surface, she was still the master's wife, and respect was due.

He raised the corners of his lips, smiling warmly, "Very well, Madam, please follow me."

This corner of the Gu residence was by no means spacious, neither the Liumo Hall nor the Songsi Courtyard occupied much land.

The study was situated between the two courtyards, not far from the Songsi Courtyard. Following the veranda to the east, one would pass through the Moon Cave Gate and take two turns before arriving. It was a journey that took no more than a stroll of a cup or two of tea's duration.

When they arrived at the study door, Gu Changjin had already emerged, dressed in his official attire.

He was taller than most northern men, and the blue robe he wore accentuated his refined elegance and noble demeanor, like a precious tree adorned with orchids. Even the egret embroidery on his garment seemed livelier than others'.

Gu Changjin probably hadn't expected Rong Shu to come. Seeing her standing gracefully under the arcade, he asked, "Madam, what brings you here?"

Rong Shu adjusted the collar of her cloak, responding softly, "Tomorrow, when I pay my respects to my family, will my lord accompany me back to the marquis manor?"

Gu Changjin lowered his gaze upon her.

Compared to yesterday, her countenance was evidently much improved.

Her peach-colored cheeks flush with a hint of red, and her cherry lips are delicately painted. This enhances her snow-white complexion, making it seem even more ethereal. She possesses a striking beauty, with her enchanting almond-shaped eyes exuding a spring-like warmth even when she's not smiling. However, it is her gentle and graceful demeanor that transforms that hint of boisterous spring sentiment into a tender affection like flowing water. It does not come across as frivolous; instead, it adds a touch of pure and captivating elegance.

Before dawn, at the coldest hour of the night, her forehead was exposed as the wind lifted her hair, revealing a smooth brow beneath which lay a pair of clear, tranquil eyes, fixed steadily upon him.

"Gu Changjin inquired, "My Lady, at what hour would you like to depart tomorrow?"

"We shall set off at dawn. If you have official duties, you may leave after lunch at the Marquis residence."

"I shall abide by your arrangements." Gu Changjin nodded, then paused before adding, "I expect to be occupied until late tonight. After my duties, I will rest in the study. There's no need for you to wait up for me."