Chapter 8
Chapter 8
I stood in the courtyard for a long time, waiting for my racing heart to settle before finally heading back to the room.
As soon as I pushed the door open, I saw Shen Yanlan standing by the window.
Moonlight spilled across his shoulders as he gazed at the locust tree in the courtyard, lost in thought.
Hearing me enter, he smiled and asked, “What took you so long?”
“The moonlight was lovely tonight,” I replied. “I ended up walking a few extra laps.”
“The moonlight is indeed lovely,” Shen Yanlan said. “And the locust blossoms are very fragrant.”
He walked toward me, asking as if in passing, “Huaiyi, did you run into anyone just now?”
My heart skipped a beat, but I still managed an answer.
“No. I was focused on my walk; I didn’t notice anyone else.”
He nodded, his gaze locking onto mine.
“Huaiyi, you look so beautiful every time you blush.”
I turned my face away. “I… I’m not blushing…”
“Huaiyi,” he said, “you blush when you are nervous, when you are moved, and when you are lying.”
“Tell me, which one is it right now?”
I clenched my fists, not daring to look at him.
He suddenly sighed and took my hand, gently blowing on the crescent-shaped marks my nails had left in my palm.
“Hengzhi came looking for you just now, didn’t he?”
“…Yes.”
“He has spent many years studying abroad and has a rebellious streak. If he said anything nonsensical, don’t take it to heart.”
I hesitated for a moment before asking, “He said the Shen Family shouldn’t be taking a new bride. What did he mean by that?”
Shen Yanlan said, “The Shen Family has existed for as long as this town has. An ancient family naturally has some… unpleasant traditions. However, no matter what happens, I will protect you.”
“Really?”
“Yes.” He pulled me into an embrace. “You are my wife. No one can harm you.”
My heart gradually began to settle.
He paused, then added, “However, you should avoid being alone with Hengzhi from now on.”
“I’m afraid I might get jealous.”