He respectfully received it and replied: "Young master is polite."

  Her voice is like a yellow orioles, her words are full of smiles, and listening to it feels somewhat familiar.

  Jiang Yan raised his head and looked at her with great curiosity.

  He didnt think much of it at first, but as soon as he took a look, he was shocked and took two steps back, his eyes wide with surprise, exclaiming: "How could it be you!"

  "Hey!" Jiang Chong scolded him from beside, "How can you be so loud?"

  "Isnt that... Father... Uncle... Isnt this Bai Sis younger sister?!" Jiang Yans scalp felt numb, and he rubbed his eyes hard before looking again. Then, he shook his head repeatedly, "How did she end up here?"

  Looking at him so unexpectedly, Huai Yu was also a bit surprised. At first, when Jiang Xuanjin decided to break the jar and make a scene, she thought that Young Master Jiang had been informed and deliberately left, so that Jiang Xuanjin could go to the Bai family to propose... but it seemed not to be the case?

  This face of shock, as if the sky had fallen.

  Hua Yu looked at Jiang Xuanjin beside her with a puzzled expression.

  Jiang Xuanjin seemed to have not expected such a big reaction from him, his face had a puzzled expression, but he still explained calmly: "She is your newlywed aunt, of course she should be here."

  "Could......" Jiang Yans face turned pale, he thought to say that Bai Si wasnt the one he was supposed to marry? But after a moments thought, he remembered what he had said earlier in the front yard with his younger uncle...

  "There is a way, but think carefully, are you really unwilling to get married?"

  "Ive thought it over, I refuse!"

  At that time, the elders had decided on Bai Er Jie for him, but he was unwilling and didnt tell his younger uncle that he wanted to marry Si Xiao Jie instead. His younger uncle knew nothing about it.

  Looking at the white four xiǎojiě in front of him again, Jiang Yan stretched out his hand and rubbed his face heavily, his heart sinking uncontrollably.

  Why didnt he say a few more words at that time? Why didnt he go against Grandpas decision? Why did he naively think that he was still young and it would be okay to get married in two years?!

  This is great, originally he could have married her, now he has to call her "Auntie".

  Damn it, auntie!

  "Master Xiao, arent you tired from rushing around all day?" Huai Yu asked with a kind face, "Shall I have someone prepare hot water for you?"

  “……”

  Taking a deep breath, Jiang Yans face turned dark as he bowed his head and said, "No need."

  Then he turned his head and said to the old man: "The grandson is unfilial, please grandfather punish!"

  Just now, the person who was trying to escape by making jokes and excuses is now voluntarily asking for punishment? Old Master Jiang was very surprised. He looked at his dusty and tired appearance, and then at his exhausted expression, and slightly softened his heart. He sighed and said: "Go take a bath and change your clothes first, and then well talk about the punishment."

  "Yes." He nodded and turned around to leave, his footsteps heavy, completely gone was the carefree air he had when he came in.

  Jiang Xuanjin looked at his back in confusion, then glanced at the silly smiling person beside him, and his mind moved slightly, his ink pupils half-closed.

  After the courtesy was over, he pulled her into the garden.

  "Is there anything you want to say?" he asked.

  Li Huaiyu was laughing uncontrollably, giggling and looking around to make sure no one was watching, then grabbed his sleeve and said: "Look at the young masters expression, isnt it hilarious? Haha! Little auntie! He previously called Bai Jias fourth sister an idiot in front of me, but now he wants to call me little auntie!"

  Jiang Xuanjin didnt smile, standing in front of her with an air of superiority, looking down at her: "If Im not mistaken, you were eager to marry him before."

  He even asked him for help.

  After suppressing her laughter, Huaiyu stood up straight and said: "I need to explain this, at that time I really did want to marry him, not because of who he is, but because marrying into the Jiang family would have made my life easier!"

  "What about now?" Jiang Xuanjin narrowed his eyes, "Marrying me is also because the Jiang family has a good life?"

  "Holding jade in her arms, she choked back a sob and said with a mixture of laughter and tears: How can you be so petty?"

  Look at him, his eyebrows are furrowing again. She hastily surrendered: "No, no! I married you because of your elegant and refined demeanor, your unique good character, and your one-of-a-kind temperament!"

  Isnt it just wanting to hear her praise him? As long as he wants to listen, she can change ways every day to praise him!

  Jiang Xuanjins eyebrows relaxed, and he magnanimously decided not to hold it against her. He withdrew his sleeve and said, "Ill go take a look at Yaner. You return to the Ink Dwelling and dont run around."

  "Whats wrong?" Yu Meis face fell. "Whats good about me staying in that courtyard by myself? Cant I go with you?"

  "Didnt you say you wanted to draw a boundary?" he said, "The ink is yours, go ahead and draw as you like."

  Her eyes lit up slightly, and Hua Yu jumped up and hugged his arm, asking eagerly: "Really follow me to row?"

  "Just dont tear down the house."

  "Great!" She clapped her hands excitedly and smiled brightly, "Then Ill go back and wait for you."

  Wait for him? This phrase is quite fresh, Jiang Xuanjin hummed softly and walked around her towards the direction of Jiang Yans courtyard. As he was about to leave the garden, he paused and quietly turned his head back to take a peek.

  The rhododendrons in the garden were blooming beautifully, with a lovely reddish hue. Someone was standing amidst the flowers, gazing at them in a daze.

  She saw him turn around, she was stunned for a moment, then smiled, her eyes lit up instantly, excitedly spinning around in place, and then waved at him with her hand.

  Whats there to be happy about? She gave her a cold glance and Jiang Xuanjin disdainfully turned his head and walked away.

  However, he didnt take two steps.

  "Master, what are you laughing at?" Cheng Xiao asked, puzzled.

  "I didnt laugh."

  "May..."

  "Shut up."

  Watching his back disappear outside the Moon Gate, Li Huaiyu immediately returned to Moju. Pretending to be careless, he wandered around and accidentally approached the inkstone washing pool.

  "Madam." As soon as she stepped in, someone came to stop her, "Why dont you go for a walk somewhere else, madam?"

  Pouting unhappily, Huai Yu said: "You told me I could move around freely in the Ink Dwelling, doesnt this place belong to the Ink Dwelling?"

  "... belongs to."

  "Why cant I move?" She was full of suspicion, "Could it be that you have a girl hidden inside?"

  “……”

  "Did he really hide a girl?" Seeing his guilty expression, Li Huaiyu immediately became furious. "He deceived me! He said that in this life and the next, I am the only one, but it turns out that he has been hiding a beauty?"

  "No!" An Wei shook his head repeatedly, "The girl inside is not..."

  "Get out of my way!" She didnt care about his explanation anymore, her slender eyebrows furrowed in anger as she charged inside without hesitation.

  An Wei felt helpless, he wanted to intercept but thinking of Cheng Xiaos words that this lady was not to be trifled with, he didnt dare. He could only hastily follow behind, shouting on one side and the other: "Madam, youve misunderstood, misunderstood!"

  How could it be possible to come in smoothly without being misunderstood? Huai Yu secretly curled her lip, but on her face was a look of jealousy and envy, as she walked straight to the front of the locked bamboo house.

  "Open it for me."

  "Milady, His Lordship has given orders that no one is allowed to approach the person inside without permission."

  "Still holding on tight?" Lifting her chin with a cold smile, Li Huaiyu pointed to the lock and said, "You open it for me, or Ill have someone come and break it open, you choose one?"

  An Wei knelt down with a sorrowful face: "Milady, think thrice, if His Majesty were to blame you..."

  "Its none of your business." She pointed at her own nose with a domineering attitude, "Hand over the key!"

  "You... youll understand whats going on just by taking a look at the entrance, no need to go in." The dark guard handed over the key with trembling hands.

  She snatched the jade pendant and her hand trembled slightly. After a while, she aimed at the keyhole and pushed open the bamboo door with one hand.

  "Whoosh——"

  The person on the verge of death in the bamboo house was startled by this sound, frowned and narrowed his eyes to avoid the sunlight that fell from the doorway, and it took a long time to adapt before looking up at the visitor.

  It wasnt Zi Yang Jun, but a delicate little girl.

  That little girl seemed to have suffered a great shock as soon as she saw her, with constricted pupils, inhaling cold air, and a slightly pale face.

  "What is this?" she bellowed at the dark guard beside her.

  The Dark Guard replied in a low voice: "Its the assassin caught by Your Highness, who is to be interrogated. Its really not what you think."

  "Youre talking nonsense!" The little girl stomped her foot in anger, "If you really caught an assassin, how could you not send them to the government office? Why are they still locked up here? I think its obvious that your master has kidnapped a respectable woman and is keeping her here to torment her because she wont give in!"

  "......" An Wei thought, isnt this statement also too absurd?

  However, the little girl seemed to be out of breath and burst into tears. Big drops of tears rolled down her small face, and she wiped them away with her hands again and again, but couldnt wipe them all off, looking very pitiful.

  "Milady!" The Dark Guard was startled half to death, "Dont cry!"

  "I loved him so much, but he deceived me!" Cried Huai Yu with a heart-wrenching cry, "How could he deceive me!"

  "Miss." Ling Xiu also became anxious, "Please calm down!"

  "Ive just married into this family for one day, and hes already hiding a woman in the mansion. And youre telling me to calm down?" Huaiyu glared, her voice filled with resentment, "You go call him over for me, I want to hear it from his own mouth!"

  As soon as he heard this, the dark guards legs went soft. Who in this mansion wasnt holding the lord up with reverence? She actually opened her mouth and said "Bring him over to me", her momentum was so strong that it stunned everyone into silence.

  Ling Xiu was the first to regain her composure and nodded, saying: "Ill go now."

  The rest of the dark guards watched her leave, not daring to move.

  Jiang Xuanjin is talking with Jiang Yan in Wangshu Courtyard.

  Jiang Yan looked wronged, kneeling on the cushion with his head hung low, and asked in a low voice: "Why did my uncle suddenly get married?"

  "You left, and no one went to the appointment. The old master was furious, so I had to step out and take the blame." Jiang Xuanjin said calmly.

  Could it be because of him? Jiang Yan paused, feeling a bit guilty: "Involved Xiao Shu as well."

  "It doesnt matter, being relatives will be less troublesome." Jiang Xuanjin shook his head, "But why arent you happy?"

  Jiang Yan opened his mouth, wanting to tell the truth, but swallowed it back. With Xiao Shu protecting him like this, how could he still say those things to add trouble for him?

  Its all swallowed in the belly, and the young master forces a smile: "I just didnt expect my little uncle to marry White Fourth Miss, Im a bit surprised... Does my little uncle like White Fourth Miss very much?"

  "I dont like it."

  Jiang Yan was shocked: "Ah?"

  "That woman is really useless." He said with a straight face, "Not only is she rough and unrefined, but also talks nonsense all the time and eats a lot."

  Jiang Yan was stunned and stuttered: "I saw her once before, she seemed... quite proper?"

  Jiang Xuanjin shook his head in dismay: "It seems like a decent person on the surface. The rumors outside arent entirely unfounded, this Fourth Miss may look smart, but when she gets crazy, shes not much better than a real fool."

  Just as we were talking, he hastily and nervously came in.

  "Master," he said, "something has happened at Mojus place, please hurry back!"

  Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback and furrowed his brow at Jiang Yan, saying: "Look, it must be her causing trouble again."

  Saying so, he stood up: "Ill go back first, you rest well."

  "Yes." Nodding in response, Jiang Yan watched as his younger uncle left.

  Standing at the door for a while, the young master comforted himself foolishly. Perhaps he couldnt marry Bai Sis younger sister, but that might be a blessing in disguise, who knows?

  Jiang Xuanjins face fell as soon as he left Wangshu Courtyard: "Whats going on?"

  Lingxiu followed them and whispered: "The master saw that you hid a girl in the backyard, he was furious and insisted on inviting you back to talk."

  Miss? Jiang Xuanjin was perplexed, when did he hide a girl in the courtyard?

  He thought of the only girl in the entire Ink Dwelling, his face changed color, and he shouted: "Nonsense!" Then he quickened his pace and hurried back.

  He said no one was allowed to enter the washing pool, but she managed to find the green silk, so she must have forced her way in! With so many people around, none of them knew what they were doing, and yet none of them stopped her!

  With anger burning in his heart, Jiang Xuanjin stormed off, so furious that he could hardly wait to grab her and give her a good scolding.

  However, as he stepped into the bathroom, he heard that loud wailing cry and froze.

  Li Huaiyu sat on the threshold of the bamboo house, her head thrown back and her mouth open, tears streaming down her face, her eyes red and swollen, her voice shaking with sobs.

  "He... " He walked over, furrowed his brow and pulled her up, "Whats wrong?"

  Hua Yu cried self-pityingly and shook off his hand, sniffling with grievance.

  Jiang Xuanjin coldly stared at the dark guard beside him.

  The Dark Guard hastily cupped his hands: "Ive stopped her, but the lady insists on entering."

  "Who provoked her?" he asked in a low voice.

  Isnt it strange that shes not blaming her for rushing into the ink pool? The dark guard stuck out his tongue and immediately buried his head even lower: "Subordinate... subordinate didnt know, madam has been crying since opening the door."

  How long have you been crying? Jiang Xuanjins eyebrows were furrowed, he reached out to pinch her shoulder and scolded: "Arent you afraid of crying yourself into a faint?"

  "Just faint and be done with it!" Cui Yus nose was running, staring at him with wide eyes, "Youre hiding the fact that youve got a mistress, you must not like me anymore!"

  He looked at her face with disgust, took out a handkerchief and covered her nose: "Breathe hard."

  Hua Yu cooperated and blew her nose, staring at him with teary eyes.

  Jiang Xuanjin couldnt help but laugh, pinching her shoulder to turn her around, pointing at the green silk wrapped in chains inside: "Do you think anyone who is hiding a beauty would hide them like this?"

  "How could it be like this?" She sobbed, "Maybe they just didnt want to follow you, and then you locked them up here and wouldnt let them leave!"

  "Jiang Xuanjin sighed: What on earth is going through a womans mind?"

  "What else can I think of?" Huai Yu said straightforwardly and confidently, "Think about the person I like!"

  She slightly choked, Jiang Xuanjin pursed her lips, threw away the dirty handkerchief and replaced it with a new one on her face: "Stop talking nonsense, this person inside is useful to me, just useful, nothing else."

  Wiping her face, Huai Yu muttered: "Whats the use? She has it, and I dont?"

  "You really dont know." Jiang Xuanjin shook his head, "After all, she is very familiar with the Princess of Danyang, and you dont even know what she looks like."

  Li Huaiyu paused, looked down at herself and wanted to say, "Brother, your wife is the one who understands Princess Dan Yang the most. Qing Si can only be considered half-understanding in front of her!"

  However, she couldnt say that and instead feigned surprise, saying: "The Princess of Danyang?"

  Jiang Xuanjin hesitated for a moment and said to the people behind him: "All of you go down."

  "Yes."

  Everyone else had left, and he looked at her with a raised eyebrow, asking: "Want to know?"

  Hua Yu nodded desperately.

  After a moments thought, Jiang Xuanjin pulled her into the bamboo house.

  Qīng sīs eyes had been sharp since he appeared, and seeing him enter the house, she was even more agitated, as if she wanted to pounce on him.

  Hua Yu subconsciously pulled on his clothes, making him retreat a bit.

  Jiang Xuanjin glanced at her, slightly hooked his lips, and continued: "This is the maid beside Princess Chang of Danyang. She knows all the secrets of Danyang, but she wont say anything. I can only keep her here."

  Hua Yus face was full of surprise: "Others are loyal to their masters and wont reveal secrets, so you just lock them up?"

  "Its not that I want to kill her." Jiang Xuanjin sighed, "But its that I let her go, and she still doesnt give up on taking my life. Since thats the case, why should I still let her go?"

  Hua Yu gritted her teeth and glared at Qing Si.

  What is meant by "a mantis trying to stop a chariot" and what is meant by "an ant shaking a tree"? Cant you just leave peacefully without coming back to seek death?

  Qīng Sī was stared at by her with an inexplicable look, slightly furrowing his brow as he looked at her.

  Then Hua Yu asked: "Youve locked her up here and she still wont speak, are you planning to lock her up until she dies?"

  "Its better to have her dead than let her fall into someone elses hands." Jiang Xuanjin shook his head, "She may only lose one life if she dies, but if she falls into someone elses hands, who knows how many people will be implicated?"

  Li Huaiyu was slightly startled.

  He actually thought so? He also thought that he was so persistent in closing Qing Si, just because he wanted to pry words from Qing Sis mouth, but it turned out that this person had considered a lot.

  Who will be implicated if Qing Si is released? Its obvious that none of the "three remaining evils" can escape. At present, Xu Xian and others are still safe in the court because there is no direct evidence to prove that they have done things for Princess Chang.

  Last time Li Feng Xing came to want Qing Si, the idea was to use Qing Sis confession to bring down Xu Xian and others. At that time, Jiang Xuan Jin didnt give in, she thought he had other ulterior motives, but unexpectedly it was true that he cherished talent and didnt care about factional standpoints, wanting to protect several pillars of the country.

  Could it be that he was also deceived from the beginning and was used by others, which is why he gave her the poisoned wine?

  Hua Yu felt a bit bewildered.

  "What else do you want to know? Just ask." Jiang Xuanjin said calmly, "Since we are husband and wife, I wont hide anything from you."

  Is it really okay? Li Huaiyu couldnt believe it and grabbed his arm, staring at him with wide eyes: "Arent you afraid Ill leak it out?"

  "What benefit do you get from revealing the truth?" he said coldly, "From the moment we got married, your life has been tied to mine. If I dont have a good day, neither will you."

  It seems so too; if she really is Bai Zhenzhu, then theres nothing wrong with this statement.

  Unfortunately, she isnt.

  She smiled and hugged his arm: "I definitely wont betray you!"

  He looked at her sideways and said, "Crying for so long for a prisoner, isnt it a waste?"

  "Its worth it!" The eyes that had cried shone brightly, full of light as they gazed at him, "If you treat me with sincerity, I wouldnt mind even if I fainted from crying!"

  As she spoke, she tiptoed and gave a quick peck on his chin.

  Jiang Xuanjin paused, glanced at her with a darkened face, and gritted his teeth: "Do you really think no one is here?"

  Qing Si stood in the corner of the wall, staring at them with a look of shock and horror, as if she had seen a ghost.

  She waved her hand casually: "Anyway, she wont say anything, whats there to be afraid of?"

  "...Its impossible to communicate with someone as shameless as you," Jiang Xuanjin said with a flick of his hand, turning to leave.

  "Hey!" Hua Yu shouted to stop him and asked, "I think this girl is quite interesting, and Im bored at the moment. Why not stay here and chat with her?"

  "Chat? Jiang Xuanjin said with a bad tone: "If you can make her say one word, the Luohua River will at least flow backwards for half a month!"

  "Really?" Huai Yu was unwilling to give up, "Then Ill make her speak!"

  Turning back to glance at her, Jiang Xuanjin said, "Dont cross the line under your feet, everything else is up to you."

  Although his tone was not very good, what he said had already indulged her to the extreme. Huai Yus eyebrows rose with joy, and the light in her eyes flowed back and forth.

  Seeing her finally happy, Jiang Xuanjin pursed his lips and forgot what he had just thought of teaching her. He only called out to someone in a low voice, "Bring her a stool."

  "Master, is... this all right?" Dark Guard stammered in the wind.

  Isnt this place off-limits to everyone? But instead of just letting her in, they even offer her a chair and chat with her?!

  "Whats the big deal?"

  An Wei hastily brought in a stool and placed it inside the house before quickly retreating.

  Hua Yu sat down, her eyes fixed on Qing Si. Jiang Xuanjin thought she would say something, but instead, she opened her mouth and said: "Miss, how long hasnt taken a bath?"

  The green silk frowned and looked at her for a moment, but didnt say a word.

  "You say, whats the point of this? Just honestly tell people what they want to hear, and you can take a bath, eat, and sleep comfortably in bed, right? Being tied up like this must hurt your wound too."

  "I was also injured before, the doctor said that if the wound gets dusty, its easy to get a high fever. Once you get a high fever and cant stop it, youll easily die. Look at you, in your prime years, why do you want to give up?"

  "Your master is a good person, he doesnt really want to harm your familys master. Why are you staring at him so fiercely? Dont you think his appearance is quite pleasing after staring for so long?"

  "What nonsense are you talking about again!" someone behind her rebuked.

  Pretending not to have heard, Huai Yus eyes deeply gazed at Qing Si and said: "Since you can live well, why must you die?"

  The chain in the corner of the wall moved, and Qing Si raised her head, staring at her blankly.

  Li Huaiyu smiled at her with a gentle smile.

  Although Qing Si still didnt speak up in the end, when leaving the bathroom, Jiang Xuanjin suddenly said: "Why do you talk so much?"

  Someone spoke for half a day and didnt even take a breath!

  "Its all for you, isnt it?"

  "Huh?" What does it have to do with him?

  "You said shes useful to you, so Ill help persuade her. Who knows, maybe that girl will listen to me and be willing to help you?" She said seriously, "Ill come again tomorrow."

  "Whats the point?" He shook his head.

  Li Huaiyu suddenly stopped in her tracks and beckoned him with a crook of her finger: "Ill tell you a secret."

  He looked at her with a puzzled expression and then lowered his head.

  A triumphant smile flashed in her eyes, Huai Yu swiftly wrapped her arms around his neck, opened her mouth and pressed it against his lips, sucked hard with a "pop" sound before releasing.

  "Youre particularly sweet, I dont think its bitter at all." She smiled.

  Foreheads still against foreheads, lips with an indescribable numbness, Jiang Xuanjin was stunned for a while, and after hearing what she said, his Adams apple moved slightly, feeling both annoyed and embarrassed. He opened his mouth to say something, but it got stuck in his throat and couldnt be spoken out.

  She couldnt help but laugh at his appearance, and hugged his waist to coax: "Dont be shy, dont get angry, dont rush to scold me, Im telling the truth! If possible, Id like to pluck all the stars and moon in the sky and put them in your arms!"

  He glared at him with a slightly red ear root and a somewhat fierce tone: "If you keep talking nonsense, Ill throw you into the pool!"

  A gentle breeze blew, and the nearby inkstone pool rippled with a faint scent of ink wafting over. A petite girl stood in front of the tall young master, embracing his waist, looking up at him with a smiling face. The young master turned his head to one side, his expression slightly annoyed, but he allowed her to hold him and didnt let go.

  At noon, the old master sent meals to each house and courtyard. Jiang Shen hummed a little tune as he walked along the road, and had just passed the moon gate when he ran into this newlywed couple.

  Hua Yu led Jiang Xuanjin by the hand, walking ahead with a seemingly good mood, her feet skipping in small steps. Jiang Xuanjin followed behind, his eyes looking somewhat disdainful of her, but still obediently letting her lead him, like a tame wolf.

  Jiangs jaw almost dropped, but he quickly composed himself and smiled as he stepped forward to block their path: "Third Brother, Sister-in-law, what a coincidence!"

  She looked up at him, and Jiang Xuanjins eyes showed even more disdain: "Both of you are going to Hongyuan Pavilion."

  Its definitely going to happen, what a coincidence!

  He was scolded by him, Jiang Shen turned his head and complained sorrowfully: "Younger sister, you see, third brother has not given me a good face for several days."

  "Its nothing," said Huaiyu, "He didnt give me a good face either."

  "Thats different." Jiang Shen shook his head, "You dont know, when you were injured before..."

  Jiang Xuanjin gave him a cold glance.

  Jiang Shen let out a "gulp" and swallowed his words, innocently blinking his eyes.

  Li Huaiyus curiosity was piqued: "What happened when I got injured before?"

  "Its nothing." Jiang Xuanjin pulled her forward, "Its getting late, dont keep the elders waiting."

  "Hey, let him finish speaking!" She pouted in dissatisfaction, "I want to hear!"

  "Theres nothing good to listen to."

  "Jiang Jing..." She coquettishly said.

  "Its useless." With a pull, he drew her into the Hongyuange Pavilion. Jiang Xuanjin turned his head and looked at his own second brother from afar.

  Jiang Shen, who was originally smiling and watching the play, was stared at by him, causing his back to numb, and he instantly retracted his smile and shivered.

  Under the old mans eyelids, Jiang Xuanjin was worried that this person would gobble down his food and then be scolded. However, what surprised him was that from the moment he picked up his chopsticks, Huaiyu didnt say a word, not only chewing slowly but also smiling, with every move of his hands and feet flawless.

  The elders at the table couldnt help but cast approving glances, and Huaiyu smiled and nodded in response.

  Jiang Xuanjin thought: Could it be that this person has really learned his lesson?

  But as soon as this thought emerged, a foot under the table hooked him, the toe lightly scratching his shoe, then wrapping around and entwining his leg.

  A mouthful of soup almost choked him, Jiang Xuanjin looked at his side in surprise.

  Li Huaiyu still smiled, but when she smiled at him, her eyes had three more cunning, her feet moved very boldly, and her body sat up straight.

  Whats wrong with you? He glared at her.

  What else can I do, tease you? She smiled elegantly.

  Jiang Xuanjins face turned blue, he put down the bowl of soup and tried to pull his legs out, but this person actually had the ability to stretch both legs over, wrapping around him and not letting go.

  "Whats wrong with Third Brother?" Jiang Chong, who was sitting opposite him, noticed that something was amiss and put down his chopsticks to ask, "Are you feeling unwell? Why is your face so red?"

  Everyone heard this and looked at him in unison.

  Jiang Xuanjin stiffened his body, put down his chopsticks and replied: "Nothing, just a bit hot."

  As soon as he finished speaking, a muffled laugh was heard from beside him.

  The veins on his temples throbbed as he clenched his teeth and picked up his chopsticks to continue eating, calmly and quietly.

  After lunch, when everyone was leaving, Jiang Xuanjin stopped Jiang Shen.

  "Is second brother ready to take part in this years imperial examination?" he asked anxiously.

  Jiang Shen took two steps back upon hearing this: "No need for Third Brother to worry, Second Brother has no plans to enter officialdom."

  "Is that so?" Jiang Xuanjin was quite surprised. "Then why is Second Brothers name on the memorial presented by Bai Yu Shi?"

  "What?" Jiang Shen was shocked, "No way? I didnt report it!"

  After a moment of contemplation, Jiang Xuanjin said, "Perhaps I was mistaken."

  "Hey, Third Brother, dont go! How did you misread my name?" Jiang Shen hurriedly followed him and said, "If its true, then most likely Big Brother added to it. You know I didnt want to take the imperial exam, quickly think of a solution for me!"

  Jiang Xuanjin shook his head: "It has already been shown to Your Majesty, there is no other way."

  If he cant be elected, it will bring shame to the Jiang family and Grandfather will kill him. If he is elected, thats even more infuriating, as he doesnt want to get involved in this mess at all! Jiang Shens face turned bitter, and suddenly felt like the sky was falling.

  Jiang Xuanjin didnt bother with him, leaving him alone in the back to wail, and pulled Hua Yu to head towards Moju.

  Hua Yu turned her head and looked at Jiang Shen for several eyes, asking him: "Are you avenging?"

  "Obviously?"

  "Its really too obvious, and he didnt react in time." Huai Yu sighed, "What about the promised open-mindedness?"

  Jiang Xuanjin sneered and turned his head to look at her, saying: "I have a good memory for grudges."

  Her face turned slightly red as she heard this, and after glancing around, she forced a smile: "The weather is nice, want to go for a stroll in the garden?"

  As he spoke, his center of gravity began to shift backwards, pulling the person beside him along with him.

  However, Jiang Xuanjin didnt even bother to respond to her, feeling the resistance, he turned his head down, and with one swift motion, he scooped her up.

  "Wow!" Cried Yuexiu, "Mind your posture! Posture!"

  "I have good manners."

  "But youre making me look bad!"

  "It doesnt matter."

  Li Huaiyu was so frustrated that she couldnt help but laugh and cry at the same time, struggling with all her might, but he held her down firmly. As soon as they returned to the main building, he directly carried her downstairs and pressed her onto the bed.

  "Is it fun?" he asked.

  Hua Yu naturally knew what he was asking about, and she smiled foolishly, looking up at the top of the tent: "Its okay."

  He let out a snort of laughter and reached out to grab her ankle.

  "Ah! Stop it! Dont pinch me!" Huai Yu was startled by his action and hurriedly made a bow and cupped her hands, "My leg injury just healed not long ago, and theres still a scar now!"

  At first, in order to make a flesh wound, she moved the stone and crushed her foot, as a result, several pieces of skin on her ankle were scraped off, scabbed and still painful when touched.

  "Has it been a long time?" Jiang Xuanjin said expressionlessly, "Just now was quite agile."

  "Who told you to deceive me? You said you wanted to be honest with each other this morning, but now youre not owning up to it."

  "Whenever this is mentioned, Jiang Xuanjin becomes somewhat annoyed: "What good words can come out of his mouth?""

  "So you say." Hua Yu smiled and blinked at him, "What did you do when I was hurt?"

  Jiang Xuanjin shut his mouth and didnt make a sound, his eyes darting back and forth.

  His eyes were originally born to be good-looking, and when he concentrated on looking at people, he was not angry and self-mighty. But like now, he was dazed, and he showed a few points of wet and childish air, innocent and guilty.

  Beautiful color now, Hua Yu swallowed a mouthful of saliva, turned over and pressed him under the quilt, lying on his chest with her head against his nose tip.

  "Are you going to say it?" She smiled slyly, "If you dont, Ill kiss you."

  The warm breath intertwined, Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback for a moment, slightly annoyed: "Obviously I should be the one to care, why are you asking me again?"

  She lowered her head and pecked him lightly on the lips, then smiled mischievously: "Who told you your skin isnt as thick as mine?"

  "...This is quite straightforward and confident, and indeed has a thick enough face."

  Jiang Xuanjin wanted to push her away, but the person on top of him seemed to have anticipated this and immediately stretched out his hand to grab both of his hands, straddling his waist with his legs, lowering his head to peck him again: "You dare to resist me and Ill kiss you!"

  "I didnt resist." He was a bit angry, "Why did you kiss me too?"

  "Sorry." Lowering her head and pecking him again, Huai Yu smiled with sparkling eyes, "Youre too handsome, I couldnt help myself."

  “……”

  Dragonfly-like kisses, one by one landed on his face, the tip of his nose, forehead, the person on him seemed to be in a daze, came back to kiss him several times, then looked up at him with eyes full of affection, hands caressed his palm, bowed his head and covered his lips again.

  Jiang Xuanjin was not a lustful person, and it could even be said that after so many years of being chaste and having few desires, he had almost abandoned worldly pleasures. But now, being teased by her like this, his eyes dimmed slightly, and his Adams apple rolled up and down uncontrollably. In the moment when she finally came to kiss him, he lifted his head and opened his lips to meet hers.

  Their lips met, and one side suddenly became overbearing, reaching out to stroke the back of her neck, pressing her down heavily.

  Hua Yu opened her eyes wide, hummed and tried to push his chest, but the strength was vastly different, struggling twice before being pressed down. Next, the world spun around, the person in front of her knelt on the bed, pinning her against the innermost wall of the bed, greedily kissing her.

  His calm and stiff demeanor was gone, he breathed fiercely, his movements were a bit urgent, as he kissed her while stretching out his hand to pinch her slender waist, his finger bones protruding, his joints turning white. A wave of heat spread from his throat to his heart, his body trembling slightly.

  "Jiang Jin?" Hua Yu was kissed by him until she couldnt breathe, and when she finally managed to push his lips away with her hand, the voice that came out was hoarse and nasal.

  Jiang Xuanjin paused for a moment, took a light breath, and then continued to kiss even more deeply.

  She gently accepted his advances, her mind dazed from his kisses, wanting to say something but forgetting in an instant, only vaguely thinking that this persons face looked so tough, yet his lips were so soft...

  It was a bit hot in the room and her consciousness was also a bit dizzy. She seemed to hear the door responding vaguely.

  "Knock knock knock——"

  The door is really ringing!

  Struggling to push away the person on her body, Huai Yu panted and said: "Someone!"

  Impatiently grasping her hand, Jiang Xuanjin muttered: "Dont bother."

  Whats with the "dont mind"?! Hua Yu cried and laughed at the same time, dodging his kiss and saying: "The door isnt locked!"

  He looked up at her, his eyes filled with discontent.

  She hastily coaxed in a soft voice: "Lets see whats going on first, okay?"

  Jiang Xiaogong coldly snorted, releasing her grip on the bed, and violently pulled open the door.

  He shouted for a long time without any response, just as he was about to push the door open, it suddenly swung open with a "swish", bringing in a gust of wind.

  The master of the house stood at the door, his eyes filled with a deep winter chill.

  "Master... Master!" His legs were shaking with fear, "Its an emergency! Its urgent!"

  "Say."

  "General Xu Xians home was searched an hour ago and twenty thousand taels of gold and silver were found, now he has been personally escorted to the great prison by Lord Liu Tingwei!"

  "What?!" The two people in the house shouted out in unison.

  Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback and turned his head to see Huai Yu, whose clothes were disheveled, jumping down from the bed and rushing towards him.

  "Bang!" The door was suddenly shut again, and another gust of wind blew over, leaving Cheng Xu somewhat dazed.

  Jiang Xuanjin walked over a few steps and blocked her way, frowning and asking: "What are you doing?"

  "Xu Xian!" Li Huaiyu grasped his sleeve and said urgently, "Somethings happened at a time like this, it must be someone trying to harm him!"

  As soon as he spoke, he suddenly remembered his current identity and hurriedly added a sentence: "He is Lu Jinghangs older brother, didnt he come to help me out yesterday?"

  Jiang Xuanjin said irritably: "You dont even know the facts, how can you jump to conclusions so quickly?"

  Hua Yu looked at him in surprise: "Dont you know General Xu? Even I, a woman who has never left the inner chambers, know that he is a man of great military achievements and loyalty to the emperor and the country!"

  "That doesnt prove hes perfect either." He reached out and pulled her back onto the bed, saying "Ill go take a look first."

  Hua Yu was slightly annoyed by his calmness, but thinking again, this person had nothing to do with Xu Xian anyway, and speaking more rationally wasnt unreasonable. So she collected her emotions and helped him change clothes instead.

  After changing into a neat outfit, Jiang Xuanjin suddenly asked her: "Your relationship with Lu Jinghang, is it really that good?"

  Hua Yu was taken aback, thinking he had suspected something, and hastily shook his head: "Its just that we met early on, he took pity on me and took care of me a bit more."

  "And you?"

  "What about me?" Yu Mei was perplexed. "I have nothing, I cant repay him, so I can only remember his kindness."

  She glanced at him, Jiang Xuanjin didnt say anything and took Cheng Xu out of the door.

  Hua Yu sat on the bed in a daze for a while, then suddenly thought of something and quickly got up to run to the washing pool after adjusting her clothes.

  "Madam." This time, the dark guard didnt stop her and even proactively went up to unlock it for her without needing her to say anything.

  Hua Yu stepped forward and pushed open the door, taking several deep breaths before calming down.

  "Green silk," she said in a low voice, "Xu Xian has met with disaster."

  The chain in the corner of the wall clanged loudly, and Qing Si suddenly opened her eyes, frowning at her.

  She listened carefully at the door and didnt hear any movement. Cai Yu lifted her foot and stepped over the line on the ground.

  Before she could finish speaking, Qing Si quickly got up and grabbed her neck with one hand, pulling it back violently.

  She held her breath, but didnt cry out. Her first reaction was to reach out and grab the chain hanging from her hand, preventing it from making too much noise.

  The green silk was tied around her throat, she lowered her head and took a glance at her movements, looking at her with doubt.

  "You..." He panted with difficulty, Huai Yu lost his smile, "Youve followed me for eight years, this is the first time youve laid hands on me."

  Eight years? Qing Si was taken aback, just feeling puzzled, and then she heard her say: "Didnt you promise to protect me for a lifetime of peace and security, never to die or abandon?"

  Your humble servant, Qingsi, wishes to protect Your Highness for a lifetime of peace and prosperity, never to die or abandon you!

  Whose forehead knocked on the cold marble floor, facing the little girl who was crying loudly on the kang, made a solemn promise. Word by word, loud and clear.

  The green silk was shocked, suddenly loosened her hand, and looked at her flustered.

  Huai Yu gently put down her chain, covered her mouth and coughed twice, and said with a smile: "I was worried about your serious injury, but it seems that I dont need to worry about you now."

  His mouth opened and closed, his eyes staring at her in a daze. He reached out to touch her face, but was horrified to find his hands covered in blood. He quickly hid them behind his back and scrubbed them hard. His eyes didnt blink as he stared at her, filled with shock and suspicion.

  Hua Yu was just about to say a couple more sentences when the bamboo door suddenly swung open.

  "Milady!" The dark guard rushed in from outside, saw her covering her neck and sitting on the ground covered in dust. He took a deep breath, stepped forward and pointed his knife at Qing Si.

  "Hey!" Yu Mei frowned, "What are you doing?"

  An Wei gritted his teeth: "Ill come down and protect you!"

  Cant help but laugh and cry, Huai Yu covered her neck and said: "With your reaction, if she really wanted to kill me, you would have come in now and seen a corpse. Put the knife away."

  An Wei was taken aback and only then did she realize that she had crossed the line on the ground, while Qing Si beside her didnt make any movement.

  "Ive already talked it over with her, she wont hurt me again," said Huai Yu.

  An Wei glared, clearly disbelieving. Huai Yu immediately stood up and stretched her own neck in front of Qing Si.

  "Milady!" The dark guard was startled and shouted in a low voice, stepping forward, but saw that the girl who was shackled all over not only didnt make a move, but instead smiled lightly.

  I actually laughed!

  It wasnt just An Wei who was startled, Li Huaiyu was also shocked and quickly turned her head to look at her, wanting to see what Qing Si looked like when she smiled.

  However, her hair fell down and covered her face, hiding her smile, which flashed by in an instant.

  Regrettably, she let out a sigh and stood up straight, looking at the dark guard and asking: "Is there a more secluded place in this Ink Residence where one can hide? A place that even if someone searches for it, they wont be able to find?"

  An Wei shook his head: "The Emperor has not established a private prison."

  Even this bamboo house was specially vacated for Guan Qings study.

  Li Huaiyu furrowed her brow and muttered: "This wont do, we have to find a place quickly."

  "What does the lady want to do?" asked An Wei.

  "Save him." Waiyu replied.

  “……”

  Jiang Xuanjin arrived at the Tingwei government office, where many people were already standing. When they saw him coming, Liu Tingwei stepped out of the crowd and personally came to greet him.

  "Ah, youre here too." He said with a pleased expression, "How did you end up coming?"

  Glancing around at the people in the courtyard, Jiang Xuanjin said, "I heard you caught Xu Xian."

  "News really travels fast." Liu Yunlie smiled and shook his head, leading him to the backyard, walking to a warehouse in front of it, opening the door to let him take a look.

  "This time its a double gain for us, and Xu Xian has no excuse!"

  A mountain of gold and silver, quite an impressive sight. Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow and asked, "Was this found by searching his home?"

  "Naturally. Otherwise, how could I have put him in prison so easily?" said Liu Yunlie, feeling that his attitude was somewhat inappropriate, and slowly restrained his smile.

  "Your Highness," he said, looking at him. "Lately, many people in the imperial court have been saying that you are starting to associate with Xu Xian and Han Xiao, could it be true?"

  "Where did this rumor come from?" Jiang Xuanjin said, "I have been in office for more than eight years, have you ever seen me collude with anyone?"

  "Could it be..." Yun Lies eyes gleamed with a strange light as he said, "Some people say youre reopening the old case of Dan Yangs Long Princess, and on top of that, you got married yesterday. Xu Xian and those others actually went to join in the excitement...its hard not to let people think too much."

  He paused for a moment and then said: "If there isnt, Yun Lie will first apologize to you."

  With a slight tug on his sleeve, Jiang Xuanjin asked, "Who told you I was reviewing the old case of Dan Yang?"

  "Is there a wall that doesnt let wind pass through?" Liu Yunlie lowered his eyes, "Just like how I had just caught someone, and you arrived after hearing the news. As long as something has happened, there will always be someone who knows."

  Jiang Xuanjin fell silent.

  A person ran out in front of the courtyard, seemingly searching for something everywhere. Upon seeing them over here, their eyes lit up and they strode over with big steps, holding up their robes.

  Liu Tingwei, youre here! Lai Fengxings face was also full of smiles, as if he had never had a conflict with Jiang Xuanjin before, and he came over to bow and pay his respects.

  Jiang Xuanjin looked at him expressionlessly, while Liu Yunlie asked, "Lord Lie, is there something?"

  "Upon learning that Lord Tingwei has caught the mole, I came to offer my congratulations and, by the way... " He glanced at Jiang Xuanjin and smiled, "and provide Your Excellency with an even bigger lead."

  "What?" Yunlie Liu wondered.

  "General Xus body is not just a case of murder, it also involves the Princess Chang! There is an important witness named Qing Si who is being held in the Purple Sun Palace. If you were to question her, Im sure you would gain something."

  Qing Si? Liu Yunlie was startled and turned his head to ask: "Shes at your mansion, why didnt you tell me?"

  Jiang Xuanjins face was extremely ugly, his eyes were cold and piercing as he stared at Li Fenghang, as if he wanted to stare a hole through him.

  Li Fengxing smiled and said: "Dont be offended, Your Majesty, Im just speaking the truth."

  He said, and then stuck to Liu Yunlies ear: "Sir, hurry up and catch the person, dont give Jun Shang a chance to transfer."

  Listening to this, Liu Yunlie suddenly shouted: "Come on!"

  "Do you want to search Jiang Fu?" Jiang Xuanjin was displeased.

  "If you hand over the person directly, I wont have to search." Liu Yunlie glared at him in slight anger, "But you actually hid such an important person from me without telling me, Xuan Jin, what are you thinking?"

  "Naturally, one would think of how to protect the remnants of the Long Princess." Li Feng Xing smiled and cupped his hands, "This humble official has indeed seen it before."

  "Lord Lü." Before Jiang Xuanjin could get angry, Liu Yunlie glared at him and said in a cold voice, "Before the truth is revealed, slandering a superior is a serious crime."

  Li Fengxian was startled and hastily lowered her head.

  Liu Yunlie looked at Jiang Xuanyin again: "Come with me on a trip."