Chapter 23: Fool

Chapter 23: Fool

Perfection does not exist in this world. Although Chu Nan was born into nobility and is now the ruler of the land, he is still human, and humans are never perfect.

In Fan Xueyao's eyes, Chu Nan wasn't particularly tall, but he wasn't short either. He stood at about one meter seventy-five, which was average in her previous life but considered tall in this era.

He had well-proportioned features, thick eyebrows, and piercing eyes that exuded an aura of authority. When he smiled, he appeared gentle and refined. His muscles were firm, his build strong, and though not towering, he had a distinctly masculine presence. This appealed to Fan Xueyao's taste; she believed men should be manly, not effeminate.

Under the candlelight, Chu Nan looked relaxed. Fan Xueyao stepped forward to greet him with a bow.

"Rise."

Fan Xueyao moved closer, ready to serve Chu Nan. He put down his book, leaned forward, and pulled her to sit beside him. "You've been in the palace for some days now. Are you getting used to it?"

Fan Xueyao lifted her head, revealing a smooth, fair face. Her clear, moist eyes blinked shyly. "The Spreading Fragrance Hall is wonderful. The palace attendants have been very attentive, and I am quite comfortable here." She couldn't help but smile, as if she knew she shouldn't but couldn't contain her excitement. Chu Nan's gaze softened.

"If there's anything inconvenient or uncomfortable, don't keep it to yourself. Speak to the Empress," he added, worried that her young age might make her too shy to voice any discomfort.

Fan Xueyao nodded obediently, the pearl hairpin on her bun swaying gently, catching Chu Nan's attention. Seeing the jewelry she wore, his smile widened, his tone light and joyful. "Do you like the jewelry?"

She wore a delicate set of peach blossom accessories, including a small pearl hairpin and another pin, complementing her light red and light green robe. The pin featured three blooming peach blossoms surrounding a bud, with jade leaves carved from turquoise. The peach blossoms were crafted from pale pink peach blossom stones, with a tiny red coral bead in the center. The entire piece was both elegant and luxurious, appealing to any woman.

Fan Xueyao instinctively touched the hairpin, her eyes brightening with joy.

"I love it!" she exclaimed, nodding eagerly. "I'll wear it all the time." Realizing her enthusiasm might seem too direct, she bit her lip and blushed, averting her gaze.

Chu Nan chuckled. "Fool, if you say you'll always wear it, what will you do when I give you more jewelry?"

Fan Xueyao blinked, then said seriously, "But this is the first gift from Your Majesty. It holds great sentimental value. No matter how precious future gifts may be, they won't surpass the significance of this one."

Chu Nan felt a warmth in his heart, reaching out to hold her hand. Surprised by its softness, he held it tightly, savoring the delicate touch.

"Fool," he repeated, this time with a tender tone.

From a young age, he learned self-restraint. As a child, his mother taught him to speak less to avoid mistakes. He ate whatever was given, never asking for more. Even when ill, he endured hunger without complaint, fearing his mother's disapproval. As he grew older, dealing with ministers required hiding his true feelings, presenting himself as compassionate and diligent. Facing the late emperor, he had to suppress his disapproval, knowing that any misstep could cost him his position.

Self-restraint became second nature, ingrained deeply. He mastered the art of appointing capable officials, accepting advice, and governing diligently. The mask he wore became part of him, even convincing himself of his own persona. Today, he realized that someone could still stir his emotions.

A drop of water falling into a long-still pond created ripples, subtle yet undeniable. Over time, these drops could disrupt the calm waters entirely.

His heart stirred, but Chu Nan maintained his composure, speaking softly. "Your hands feel cold. Is the night air chilly?" He continued holding her hand.

"Do they?" Fan Xueyao blinked, seemingly unaware of his momentary lapse. "Perhaps... I'm a bit nervous," she admitted, lowering her head shyly, then peeking up at him, her timid demeanor reminiscent of a kitten away from its mother.

Chu Nan paused, his smile deepening. His past consorts always tried to present their best selves, maintaining poise and grace even when nervous. Only Fan Xueyao was so candid, unafraid to reveal her true feelings. Was she too innocent or did she trust him?

Recalling the selection records, he remembered the description of Fan Xueyao. Trust seemed the most likely explanation. Because she trusted him, she didn't hide her feelings.

"You..." Chu Nan sighed, deciding that her trust was refreshing. Interacting with unfeeling consorts was tiresome; having someone genuine made things easier. In the imperial court, he had to maintain his dignity; in the palace, he wanted genuine connection.

As she leaned against him, her shy expression contrasting with her compliant actions, Chu Nan felt his heart stir.

He intended to chat, but seeing her blush like a rain-washed pink lotus, his desire surged. He embraced her tighter, leaning down to kiss her soft, rosy lips. They were like ripe cherries, delicate and inviting. The kiss was as sweet as he imagined, her lips smooth and fragrant.

Chu Nan's technique was somewhat clumsy, almost rough, pulling her tongue slightly. Fan Xueyao relaxed, closing her eyes and guiding him gently. Gradually, he found rhythm, kissing more tenderly, unwilling to let go.

After a long kiss, both were breathless. Fan Xueyao's cheeks flushed, her misty eyes gazing at him adoringly.

Seeing her flushed and moist-eyed, Chu Nan couldn't resist. Without waiting to enter the bedroom, he laid her down on the couch and proceeded.

The first time was slow, as Chu Nan had been attended to for several nights. But as the emperor, he had access to nourishing elixirs, keeping him healthy and energetic. With his young vigor and attraction to her, one night was never enough.

Afterward, Fan Xueyao trembled, supported by a chambermaid. Lying in bed, she felt limp, while Chu Nan had already washed and settled in.

Traditionally, consorts slept separately from the emperor, maintaining distance. Fan Xueyao prepared to sleep under her own covers, but Chu Nan pulled her into his. Though unspoken, this was clearly allowed. Fan Xueyao didn't protest, nestling into the blankets, turning toward him.

Chu Nan slept inside, while she slept outside, ready to serve him if needed. Fan Xueyao rarely moved in her sleep, a habit formed during her previous life, where sleeping on sofas required stillness to avoid falling off.

Both slept soundly until morning, when Chu Nan's movements woke her. Looking out the window, she saw the dark sky tinged with blue. It was dawn, and Chu Nan was rising early, even before her.