Chapter Eight, Dotted Red Lips

Before long, we arrived at the northern bank of the Changjiang River. After crossing the Changjiang, it would take another three to five days to reach Yangzhou. It was already dusk, and we could not cross the river, so we discussed resting here for the night and crossing the river the following morning

Silently gazing at the river surface, I found myself momentarily at a loss for words. My thoughts turned over, and I couldn't help but feel that he was such a stranger, yet being with him was effortless and natural, without the slightest hint of restraint

He always does this, scolding me, shouting at me, yet suddenly treating me gently and indulgently, teasing me and making me happy. Why is that? ... I do not understand ...

Tang Shuyang smiled wickedly, a mocking glint flickering in his cold eyes: "That day, he told me something, do you want to know what it was?"

With my back to him, I stiffened my body and coldly mocked, "Tang Shuyang, how many times have you stopped me from leaving like this? Don't you find it quite annoying? I think there is a woman who would prefer to be treated this way by you."

That gaze filled with doubt seems etched in my heart; every time I recall it, my hands and feet turn icy. I said with a faint smile, "This is no longer important; what matters is that you have no choice left." I rose to my feet, the night was cool as water, and the subtle chill penetrated my skin, stripping away the last remnants of warmth from my body like peeling layers of silk. "It is late; I will return to rest now."

Tang Rongxiao turned around resolutely and walked towards me, his expression filled with concern. His face was cold and his bright eyes were dim, as if countless infatuations surged forth, endlessly overwhelming. In a moment, he nimbly took a seat in the carriage and drove away with a flick of the whip

After Jiang Xue spoke those words to me, I have been avoiding him, whether intentionally or unintentionally, not spending time alone with him, nor sharing laughter with him in the driver's seat. Several times, he wanted to have a deep conversation with me, but I cleverly evaded it. Jiang Xue should understand my intentions and will not trouble me again. The one she cherishes in her heart is not my beloved, so it is better not to interfere with their happiness.

Jiang Xue gazed deeply at me: "Miss Duanmu, do you still remember what you once said to me?"

Underestimating myself? Before I could regain my senses, he unhesitatingly kissed my trembling lips again, the force of his bite direct and fierce, as if it were a life-and-death battle, advancing like a siege, breaking into my mouth, entangling with my tongue, close and urgent, determined to shatter the stubbornness and fierceness I was desperately holding on to

Ah, this tactic of provoking has already lost its effect. I stepped past him and casually said: "As you said, perhaps I am indeed timid and afraid of trouble. Do as you wish, and you should rest early; we need to cross the river tomorrow"

The west wind howled, and the angry waves crashed against the shore. In a fit of rage, I raised my palm and struck fiercely—exactly as I had during our first encounter. His reaction was even quicker than I had anticipated, as he seized my wrist, twisting it behind my back, forcing me to straighten my chest against him

By the pond, where the reeds grow thick, the wind stirs gently; who is it that approaches this place in the night, facing the breeze?

Having walked a great distance, I seem to hear the sound of the river water surging, splashing and flowing. Could it be that we have arrived at the banks of Changjiang?

Jiang Xue was momentarily taken aback, her exquisite features showing a hint of surprise, but in an instant, her expression became calm: "Miss Duanmu is a descendant of a prestigious family, born into nobility, possessing unparalleled beauty and exceptional talent. In the future, she is destined for wealth, favor, and high status..."

It is strange; Tang Shuyang should be sitting by the campfire, yet he is nowhere to be seen. Where could he have gone? As I pondered this, the sound of light footsteps shattered the silence of the deep night. Two figures slowly emerged from the depths of darkness, coming to a halt in front of another carriage. The faint red glow of the fire illuminated the two shadows, creating a subtle halo around them, appearing vague and indistinct.

Ling Feng leaned against me, sleeping soundly. He was very obedient, enduring hardships alongside me without ever complaining of fatigue. He got along very well with Tang Shuyang, even insisting on becoming his disciple to learn his exceptional martial arts skills. At first, Tang Shuyang was unwilling to teach him, refusing on the grounds of his nomadic lifestyle. However, Ling Feng persistently clung to him, following him whenever he had the chance and incessantly bothering him. Eventually, Tang Shuyang, unable to bear it any longer, reluctantly agreed. At first, Tang Shuyang was unwilling to teach him, refusing on the grounds of his nomadic lifestyle. However, Ling Feng persistently clung to him, following him whenever he had the chance and incessantly bothering him. Eventually, Tang Shuyang, unable to bear it any longer, reluctantly agreed

And Jiang Xue, staring at me in disbelief, had her phoenix eyes fierce, a blend of fear and hatred intertwining and overlapping.

The pain in my wrist gradually intensified, as his fingers quietly exerted pressure, and his heart was ablaze with anger. I closed my eyes briefly, a faint smile appearing: "What do you want to say?"

He released me, took out a silk handkerchief to wipe the tears from my face, and chuckled softly, "Alright, you should have cried enough by now. If you cry any more, you'll wake up tomorrow morning with two walnuts for eyes."

Without any hesitation, he swiftly ran forward, skillfully wrapping his arms around my waist from behind, holding me as he took long strides into the profound darkness, away from the carriage, away from the campfire, away from the woods... I did not struggle, for I knew he was determined and would not let me down.

Tang Shuyang took her hand, affectionately patted Jiang Xue's left shoulder, and helped her step into the carriage. He then strode towards me; the night was thick, and I could not discern the expression on his face, nor did I know his intentions. A slight ripple of unease stirred within me, ... giving rise to a bit of panic ... . ... I truly did not wish to be entangled with him any further, so I stood up and slipped into the carriage.

I... I also do not know where to go. Tang Shuyang's cool voice seemed to conceal a deep sorrow

Tang Shuyang let out a faint sigh, the anger in his dark eyes vanished in an instant. He wrapped his arm around my shoulders, holding me close to his chest, his large, solid hand gently patting me, overflowing with tenderness: "A girl crying so recklessly, this is truly the first time I have seen it! Oh, no, I witnessed your tearful appearance last time as well."

I furrowed my brows and looked over; Tang Shuyang and Tang Rongxiaotian stood by the pond, merely an arm's length apart, their lips moving as if engaged in conversation, though I could not discern their words. Both wore charming smiles, with Tang Shuyang's face radiant, carrying a hint of cold mockery, while Tang Rongxiaotian's light laughter was tinged with bitterness, as if flavored with a touch of huanglian. ... Immediately following, two figures in black robes stood solemnly, the warmth between their chests vanished in an instant, and a chilling aura solidified in the air ...

My heart is filled with chaotic sorrow, and I can no longer fall asleep. I quietly exited the carriage and sat in the driver's seat. The boundless darkness closed in from all directions, spreading out before me, as if a giant black hand had covered my eyes, leaving me unable to open them again

Jiang Xue said: "That is good, Jiang Xue thanks Miss Duanmu."

Suddenly, the pale night sky spun low, the sound of the surging river gradually faded away, and one could only feel the icy cold lips burning with heat, the body was feverish, and there was a tightness in the chest

Tang Shuyang sighed and said with a smile, "Miss Duanmu truly takes me, Tang, for a mere coachman. Just think about it, Tang Shuyang, a wealthy merchant from Luodu, has actually been reduced to the status of a coachman for a woman. What a remarkable tale indeed!"

Tang Shuyang's brows were slightly furrowed as he gazed at her intently, a deep suspicion permeating the depths of his eyes

Even the most foolish and dull-witted person can discern the irony in my words

What is Miss Duanmu thinking? Jiang Xue stands beside me, and there seems to be a hint of mockery in her voice

With a slight tug at my cheeks, I managed to draw out a faint smile, and I softly said: "Congratulations"

I sarcastically remarked: "Whether he is foolish or not, I do not know; isn't Boss Tang also quite foolish?"

With a slight furrow of my brow, I turned my face away and said in a low, cold tone: "I do not wish to know!"

Tang Shuyang noticed something unusual, pulled me away, and asked with concern: "Are you okay? Are you feeling unwell?"

Jiang Xue's expression suddenly changed, the flush of red fading away, leaving only a pale shock. She hesitated, wanting to speak but stopping short, and finally stammered, "Miss Duanmu, your insight is truly remarkable, Jiang Xue has learned a great deal! I can only imagine that Miss Duanmu must have employed such exquisite tactics in front of her beloved."

Her exquisitely sculpted face, with her enchanting phoenix eyes casting a sideways glance, and her graceful figure adorned in a shimmering red dress... I raised my eyebrows slightly, looking at her with pride, and said with a gentle smile: "Miss Jiang Xue... it seems you are somewhat concerned about the nature of my relationship with Boss Tang. In fact, you need not worry; I regard him merely as an elder brother."

Tang Rongxiao's breathing gradually became heavy, his voice increasingly hoarse and deep: "Tell me!"

Ling Feng is no longer the second prince of the Da Ling Dynasty; he is playful yet profound, clever yet solemn. When others inquire, he will say, I am the cousin of Sister Duanmu, Duanmu Feng

He turned my body around, held my cold hand, and with a faint smile said: "So what if you see? It's best if you do!"

I leaned against his chest, trembling all over, quietly sobbing.

Not far away, a dilapidated pavilion stands isolated among the grass... I sat down, leaning against the weathered red-painted column, quietly gazing at the crescent moon floating and slowly strolling across the sky, my heart serene and undisturbed

A wild smile spread across his dark face as he slyly remarked, "I did not expect Miss Duanmu to be so fierce; I have underestimated you! Perhaps Tang Rongxiaotian has yet to experience such a flavor! Indeed, you are fierce in temperament, while Tang Rongxiaotian is a modest gentleman; he must be worried about startling the fair lady and scaring you away!"

I quietly listened to her speak about Tang Shuyang, with a faint smile and no expression; after she finished speaking in one breath, I smiled gently and said: "Oh, is that so? Thank you, Miss Jiangxue, for the reminder! I would like to inquire, regarding Boss Tang's beloved confidante, I believe Miss Jiangxue... is the most alluring and radiant beauty among them, isn't she?"

I supported her body: "What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell? Did you eat something bad?"

Tang Rongxiao stood three zhang away in front of me, quietly gazing at me with eyes that were deep and distant, revealing no trace of emotion. The night was enveloping, and a cool breeze gently stirred the strands of hair at my temples, causing them to flutter chaotically. I turned and walked to the right, no longer paying attention to his silent gaze.

Crossing the Changjiang River is extremely perilous; if one encounters criminals or evildoers, they may meet their demise in the great river, with little chance of survival.

"Are you thinking of leaving after finishing with Changjiang? Or is it that Miss Duanmu is afraid to be alone with someone like Tang?" Tang Shuyang mocked, his angry voice cold and hard as a knife, "So it turns out you are just an ordinary young lady, timid and fearful of trouble."

The crimson of her snow-colored dress perfectly complemented the rosy hue of her skirt, creating a striking contrast. Her enchanting phoenix eyes and joyful demeanor made her beauty even more captivating. A warm shyness appeared at the corners of her lips: "He still doesn't know... I want to tell him in person on a clear, moonlit night. He loves children and has always wanted one; now, he has finally gotten his wish."

There is something I must tell you. Once I regain my composure, he said solemnly: "On March 18th, Prince Pingling entered the city, and an assassin attempted to assassinate him in the street... Do you know who the assassin is?" Seeing my frown and puzzled expression, he continued, "Your cousin Ye Sihan, Xi Ning Huaiyu, and of course, Tang Rongxiaotian."

I smiled faintly, a very cool and subtle smile

Suddenly taken aback, I stood there speechless. The gentle breeze swirled around us, flowing and swirling, chilling my cheeks. His piercing gaze sharpened, the contrast of black and white in his eyes clear, as he coldly asked: "Tang Shuyang... are you very familiar with him?"

Throughout the ages, countless poets and literati have traversed the natural landscapes, from towering mountains to flowing rivers and lakes. They are bound to be inspired by the beauty around them, leaving behind immortal and splendid verses. Standing by the banks of the Changjiang River, gazing at the vast river surface, one feels the grandeur of heaven and earth, the resonance of the rivers, and a unique, awe-inspiring power that stirs the soul, expanding one's heart and mind, leading to a profound admiration.

The river wind swept fiercely, striking against my face, leaving a damp and clammy sensation. I gazed at the river surface and smiled, saying: "Thank you, Changjiang under the night sky, for your myriad of wonders"

On that afternoon, I said to her: The things you are worried about, you never need to worry about.

I turned my face to look at him, casting a faint glance and brushing aside my disheveled hair—his face was as cold as frost, and his tone was filled with too many emotions: "What is wrong with you? Why do you always avoid me?"

Jiang Xue took out a handkerchief and gently wiped the corners of her lips, a hint of crimson appearing on her cheeks, a shy red, an intoxicating red... She spoke softly: "No, I... Miss Duanmu, I am with child!"

The crimson snow circled around his shoulders, resting in the nook of his shoulder, whispering softly: "Master, I am waiting for you in Yangzhou, come back soon"

I nestled into his chest, wrapping my arms around his shoulders, weeping silently

Suddenly, the crimson snow covered her mouth and nose, and she bent over to retch, the sound of her throat's airflow echoing, evoking a sense of compassion and astonishment in those who witnessed it

He bowed his head close to my ear, like an injured beast, and growled: "Tell me!"

Tang Shuyang deliberately lowered his voice: "Get in the car and rest, we have to get up early tomorrow!"

Tang Shuyang's heart and voice were steady and powerful, and his tone grew increasingly gentle, as if I were a little girl: "What is it? Please tell me, okay?"

Jiang Xue let out a dry laugh, her cheeks slightly flushed: "Shu Yang and I have known each other for many years, and we understand each other very well. He is not the kind of person who focuses on romantic feelings, nor does he easily develop feelings for a woman; one could say he is a heartless person. However, I have noticed that Shu Yang seems to have a particular interest in Miss Duanmu, so it is possible that he has developed feelings for you as well. Therefore, Jiang Xue dares to remind you that Shu Yang is a person who indulges in the pleasures of life and would not give up numerous beautiful friendships for the sake of just one woman. Just because he has feelings does not mean he is infatuated, and being emotionally moved does not imply he is devoted. I hope Miss Duanmu will consider this carefully."

I do not find Jiang Xue and Ling Xuan detestable; rather, I perceive them as both brave and, at times, laughable and pitiable. Just like myself with Xi Ning and Huai Yu, we are brave yet also tragic, and there exists a certain capricious malice within me—I ultimately refuse to allow others to bully me without reason.

All my strength had vanished, and I lay weakly against his chest, still in shock and gasping for breath

I was momentarily lost in thought, detached from my body, took the silk handkerchief from his hand, and weakly said: "It is time to go back! We still have to travel tomorrow!"

Forcing a smile, I once again feel the world spinning, my vision gradually blurring...

Ah, take me to the riverbank, it turns out it is for this matter

"I know, you do not." A deep voice belonging to Tang Rongxiaotian gradually came from behind.

In a haze, a shiver ran through my entire body, as a scorching wave surged rapidly, and I collapsed in his embrace

Jiang Xue is crying? What happened? Did Tang Shuyang scold her? Could it be because of what happened last time? But even if he knows what Jiang Xue said to me, he shouldn't be blaming her at this moment... This is really strange... What does "take care all the way" mean?

With a slight sense of calm in my heart, the sorrow recedes like the ebbing tide, only to be followed by another wave surging to my chest, stirring my heart ceaselessly. In a moment of excitement, I once again found myself in a tender embrace with him, truly lost in the moment! I envision the enchanting moonlight, the gentle breeze stirring, as young couples share their shadows, competing with the creamy moonlight in brilliance.

Looking at her face flushed with charm, I felt neither anger nor annoyance, and the corners of my lips curled up: "Miss Jiangxue, just consider my words as mere nonsense. If a woman wishes to win a man's devoted affection, the foremost requirement is to showcase her myriad charms before him, firmly capturing his heart, making him follow in her footsteps and linger around her. Driving away one after another of his beautiful acquaintances is a tactic of little effect, and is most undesirable. What does Miss Jiangxue think about this?"

His expression turned cold as he nodded in agreement, saying, "It can be said that way as well." He gently slid the back of his finger across my cheek, stirring a soft tremor within me, his warm gaze deepening slightly, "However, it seems you have underestimated yourself."

Tang Shuyang stood beside me, his deep voice making my heart race: "Is this your first time standing by the riverbank to watch the Changjiang? Do you like it?"

Miss Jiang Xue seems to have something to say, but I do not quite understand! I gently interrupted her flattering words, for such flattery is likely insincere.

He did not nod, nor did he respond; he merely sighed helplessly and lowered his head

I smiled obediently and said, "I am waiting for you!"

Tang Shuyang gazed at me with interest and asked, "Oh? Do tell me more."

I solemnly said: "Since Brother Tang Rong has made his choice, there is no room for regret..."

Two or three zhang away, a bonfire blazes fiercely, resembling a star in the vast night sky, its faint light so elusive, content to occupy its own small space in the world

Looking at his increasingly resolute features, I let out a soft sigh, my heart aching...

I was utterly astonished, unable to comprehend why he was leaving, and even less able to understand the sorrow in his words. I gently asked, "Aren't you supposed to escort Jiang Xue to Yangzhou? Haven't you yet arrived in Yangzhou? Why are you leaving now?"

Before he could speak, I hurriedly stepped out of the pavilion... He quickly approached and grabbed my wrist, tightly holding it, his voice filled with deep sorrow: "No... don't go..."

Tang Rongxiao smiled as he spoke, his black eyes also filled with a lively joy, his voice low and hoarse: "How do you know I have already made a choice? When have I ever told you?"

This tone... seems a bit angry. I explained politely: "It's nothing, you misunderstood! I... I am not avoiding you, I just don't want others to misunderstand."

"Alright, my dear... take care on your journey!" The tone of Jiang Xue's voice was filled with tenderness.

I remained silent, only focusing on my sobs, one after another. He gently rubbed my hair, let out a long sigh, and softly embraced me.

Is there joy? I was taken aback, and suddenly understood that it was Tang Shuyang's child

How could I possibly ignore it? Moreover, even without the presence of Jiang Xue, I understand that the immensely wealthy Tang Shuyang from Luodu is not a suitable partner for me to entrust my life to. I nodded perfunctorily and said calmly, "Is there anything else? If not, I will get in the car and rest."

Finally, Tang Shuyang set me down, holding my small hand, leading me to walk slowly, all the while in silence

The damp river breeze lifted the black hair that hung by his temples, swirling freely, accentuating the pallor of his face and his somber expression. As he walked along, he too had endured hardships, more exhausting than any of us. His face was bathed in the pale night, yet it appeared sincere: "I am sorry... I... must go..."

Mr. Tang is very willing to serve Miss Duanmu! He let out a chuckle, unable to contain his laughter, and his deep, resonant laughter emanated from his chest, broad and expansive, like the rushing Chang River. I stared at him in silence, not understanding why he was so amused

"Did you think I had forgotten?" I retorted, a gentle smile gracing my lips, with waves of emotion stirring at the corners of my brows. "Duanmu Qing has never forgotten the words once spoken, so you need not worry!"

My whole body suddenly froze, and my heart was stirred; I slowly turned around and looked at his rigid back, exclaiming, "What did you say? You want to leave? Where are you going?"

I shot him a glance and coldly huffed, "I am worried that if you leave, there will be no one to help me drive"

Jiang Xue's heart skipped a beat, and she said somewhat nervously: "It's nothing, just a casual chat."

Unintentionally lifting my gaze, I was astonished to see, directly in front of the dilapidated temple's entrance, a white figure standing there. Her features were indistinct, her form slender, resembling a snowflake amidst a flurry of snow, pure and cold, gazing at us from afar. Perhaps she also noticed my probing gaze; she clearly paused for a moment, then gracefully turned and elegantly stepped into the ruined temple

Tang Rongxiao suddenly embraced me— I had long known that he would be unable to control himself. Ha, Ling Xuan, do not blame me; if you had merely asked me, I certainly would not have made things difficult for you. However, since you have insulted me, do not blame me for disregarding our past friendship!

The chilling aura that spread across his face made me break into a cold sweat. I calmly asked, "Why do you ask this?"

On the evening of the following day, a group of people rested at a farm they passed by. The farmhouse, rice fields, green trees, and dirt paths appeared faint and sparse, resembling a few strokes of light ink on rice paper, serene and tranquil. The curling smoke from cooking rose gently with the evening breeze, while the distant mountains darkened, clearly depicting the scenery of late spring and early summer.

The brilliant starlight spills across the vast sky, while the faint moonlight flows throughout the universe. The stars and the moon illuminate each other, creating a captivating and enchanting night. Before my eyes lies a vast expanse of water, the Changjiang River stretching east to west for thousands of miles. The river flows ceaselessly towards the east, the sound of the surging tides echoing in my ears, reminiscent of the waves of pine trees, presenting a myriad of scenes that stir the soul.

His trembling voice was like winter icicles, splashing me in the face: "Do you like him?"

I recognize this white figure, Jiang Xue. I believe she will come to find me

Tang Shuyang listened to my words in a daze, gazing at me, his dark face gradually becoming serious, his deep eyes tightly fixed.

I gaze far into the distance, my sight lost in the remote waters and distant mountains, yet I cannot escape the word "emotion." With a cold smile, I slowly say, "The Duanmu family has always upheld strict family rules and harsh laws; if any descendant commits a wrongdoing, they will surely face severe punishment. Miss Jiangxue... must not have a deep understanding of this."

If Miss Duanmu were to be moved by her feelings, it would likely be the beginning of a calamity. Those beautiful confidantes of Shuyang are not to be underestimated; their words can drown you, and their fragrant powders can suffocate you

Tang Shuyang stood beside us and smiled, saying, "Oh? I am quite interested; you may continue, I will listen attentively from the side"

A faint sound startled me awake, causing a slight cold sweat to break out. I had actually fallen asleep, yet I was unaware of what time it was.

The next morning, Ling Xuan caught a cold and had a persistent high fever. In desperation, Tang Rongxiao Tian parted ways with us and took a detour to a nearby town to seek a doctor for treatment, while we continued southward towards Yangzhou

"The warning from Miss Jiang Xue is firmly etched in my mind," I said as I took my leave, casting a cold glance at Tang Shuyang's face and noticing his features tightly knitted together.

He was able to rush over tirelessly to save me, yet why did he abandon me at the last moment? Although I have no reason to keep him, my heart burns with anger as I gently bite my lip: "Since Young Master Tang is unwilling, I shall not force him. If you wish to leave, then go ahead, please do as you please"

I turned my gaze and shot him a disdainful look, saying, "Just because he said that, you harbor resentment and... humiliate me? Isn't that foolish?"

"Others? Who are others? Is it Jiang Xue?" Tang Shuyang pressed on relentlessly, coldly stating, "I do not know what she has said to you, but you need not pay any attention to it"

I said softly, "Brother Tang Rong, I do not wish to tell you!" With a light laugh, I suddenly turned and left—my smile was alluring yet cold, captivating yet chilling.

Tang Rongxiao turned my body around, his bright eyes filled with a fervent energy, his voice anxious yet filled with surprise: "Are you crying?"

"I must leave, perhaps to the southwest for a while." He turned to face me, a cool and mocking smile on his lips: "May I assume that Miss Duanmu is reluctant to see me go"

Weary, I closed my eyes, and a single tear fell—startled, I realized how deeply the pain in my heart had been suppressed

I laughed and said, "Well, it's the first time."

"You cry so recklessly, which is not like a stubborn and willful girl!" he teased, his words laced with a sense of indulgence, reminiscent of a father's affection.

"What are you talking about?" Tang Shuyang approached slowly, the sleeves of his dark black robe swaying gently with the movement of his legs.

I widened my eyes, only to see him squinting, lost in a daze. What was he doing to me... I exerted all my strength to push him away, struggling against his assault. However, his overwhelming power was irresistible; his strong chest felt like a blazing fire that engulfed and swept me away... burning away all my senses

It turns out that day in Xining, Huaiyu truly bid me farewell, perhaps even a final farewell! I had already noticed that his words with Lu Shuyi were peculiar, and it turned out to be a parting of life and death! As for Lu Shuyi, she should have understood the reason for her husband's hasty departure, yet she did not intervene. Sister Lu, what exactly are your thoughts on this matter?

Having finished speaking, I turned away indifferently, leaving behind a pair of astonished man and woman. At that moment, I felt the starlight in the night sky above me gradually becoming brilliant, and my heart was filled with immense satisfaction

As my wrist grew warm, he suddenly pulled me close, with just the right amount of force, ensuring it wouldn't hurt my hand while preventing me from leaving

I am powerless to respond, only able to quietly regain my strength. How could he treat me like this! As if I were merely a fleeting firework, casually subjected to humiliation; I hate him! I hate him to death!

I shouted, "Let go of me!"

His voice was devoid of discernible emotion: "You finally smiled. Do you know how cold your beautiful face has been these past few days?"

I suddenly turned around and stepped away—leaving as quickly as possible. He had already rejected me, and I could no longer bear to stay, nor did I want him to see the tears and vulnerability in my eyes

Turning to look at him, one sees his profile with sharp angles like a chiseled sculpture, a straight nose, a tightly drawn jaw, cold and hard like a blade, proud and handsome like a casting. He possesses a demeanor that is entirely different from that of Xi Ning Huaiyu and Ye Sihan, as well as from Tang Rong Xiaotian; Xi Ning Huaiyu and Ye Sihan embody the gentle sunlight of Jiangnan, while Tang Rong Xiaotian represents the sudden downpour of a summer afternoon, and Tang Shuyang is akin to the wild sands of a vast desert.

Tang Shuyang's voice was chilling to the bone: "Is that so?" As the words fell, he suddenly yanked me around, swiftly embracing me, tightly, securely, perfectly aligned, without a gap. In an instant, a strong masculine aura enveloped me, his thin lips descended, biting down on my cold lips, entangled in a fervent and passionate grind...

I pried open his palm, forcefully prying it apart, staring at him with tear-filled eyes, unblinking as I glared at him, allowing the tears to roll down in streams...

I have seen it all..." Tang Rongxiao's gaze was incredibly dark, growing colder by the moment, "In the woods, on that night at the dilapidated temple, I have seen it all...

"Grandfather, this..." Jiang Xue's expression was extremely awkward, her face flushed with a bright red, yet it was subtle and flustered

With a smile fading, he composed himself and said solemnly: "In three to five days, we will arrive in Yangzhou. Tomorrow, you will cross the river on your own, so be careful in all matters"

I raised my small fist and pounded on his shoulder, holding back my tears, and said with difficulty: "You—still—mock me!"

He let out a cold laugh, the expression of which was so desolate: "I will be leaving tonight"

Ling Zheng told me that last night, he saw Ling Xuan pouring water over his head for a long time. After returning to the carriage, he began to sneeze

"I hate you!" I bit my lip and gritted my teeth, glaring at him with a fierce expression, wishing I could slap him across the face.

I coldly said, "Brother Tang Rong, she will see it..."

The cries grew louder, and tears surged forth; I did not understand why I felt such deep sorrow, to the point of weeping uncontrollably in the arms of a man I hardly knew. Even more perplexing was why Tang Shuyang always appeared at the right moment when I was sad, always indulging my outbursts, and consistently soothing my emotions

I suddenly opened my eyes, took a step forward, gazed at him intently, a hint of charming smile at the corners of my eyes, and spoke softly just below his lips: "Brother Tang Rong truly wants to know?"

My back collided with his chest, hard and warm. He tightly hooked my waist, and a warm breath surged from behind, gradually spreading across my neck. My body suddenly went limp, and a shiver coursed through me.

"Nonsense!" He grabbed my arm and yanked it hard, causing my entire body to spin around and collide against his chest. He held my trembling shoulder tightly, his gaze intense, and admonished, "What are you crying out for in the middle of the night? What would you do if you encountered a bad person?"

His detestable face bore a smile that was not quite a smile: "It seems that it is not so easy for you to hit me!"

I stared at him in a daze, looking at him in disbelief... my mind was blank... my hands and feet were cold, my cheeks were chilly, my eyes felt icy... everything was cold...

I expressed my disagreement, saying, "What? Is it not allowed? You should feel honored instead."

He held my waist with one hand and wrapped the other around my shoulder, his voice hoarse and his tone firm: "I know you are talking about Jiang Xue. Let me tell you, Jiang Xue has nothing to do with me. From now on, do not mention her again, understood"

I gazed at her, smiling sweetly: "We are discussing some infatuated and passionate men and women in the world. Would Boss Tang like to listen in as well?"

I made every effort to suppress the boundless panic and calmly retorted, "As you said, there are only three to five days left, why not send the Buddha all the way to the West?"

"What if I were to beg you?" I looked at him with hope, wishing he would nod in agreement. The journey has been perilous, and it has made me so timid; with Tang Rongxiao Tian not by my side, I truly do not want him to leave me as well, even though my request is selfish and willful

He let out a cold snort, pinched my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze. He leisurely laughed and said, "He said: If you dare to touch her, I will not let you go!" He clicked his tongue in wonder, speaking in a strange manner, "He is truly infatuated with you, abandoning a stunning princess, and solely devoted to you. Do you think he is foolish? Hmm?"

How could I not know that Jiang Xue deliberately mentioned Tang Shuyang to undermine my impression and affection for him, to "actively" distance me from Tang Shuyang? Little does she realize that even if she did not speak of it, I already know that Tang Shuyang is not the virtuous person in my heart.

After taking five steps forward, I suddenly turned around and said indifferently, "Boss Tang, if you truly wish to live a solitary life through the long years, it seems rather desolate! You are of similar age to my elder brother, so I kindly remind you: you have reached the age of thirty, and it is time to carefully consider matters of lifelong importance, as well as to cherish the fairer sex. Perhaps you should open your eyes wide and see if there is a beautiful woman who has been by your side for many years, eagerly waiting for you?"