TPMCS(rebirth) 18 - After the autumn exams, I want to marry her

In his previous life, Huo Jue only learned that Wei Huan had been secretly rescued by Xue Wu and kept hidden in the Duke of Dingguo's residence after meeting Shen Ting. When the siblings reunited, one had become a eunuch, having spent four years in the palace and rising to become the highly sought-after Eunuch Huo in the capital. The other was Xue Wu's concubine, the "Madam Wei" of the Duke's residence, who had even been forced to abandon her own family name.

By then, Wei Huan's health had deteriorated to the brink of collapse due to her inner turmoil.

When she first saw him again, she had wept just as she did now.

She hugged him as she had when they were children, her frail hands patting his back as she sobbed, "You shouldn't have had to bear all this! A Jue, it's my fault! I failed to protect you!"

The image of her tear-streaked face overlapped with the pale, withered face from his memories.

Huo Jue lowered his eyes, bent down, and gently patted Wei Huan's slender shoulders, soothing her. "Sister, who said you were late? You came at just the right time."

Wei Huan shook her head, still crying.

Xue Wu, who had been sitting on the bed, had long since stood up with a dark expression when Wei Huan hugged Huo Jue. Now, seeing her still clinging to him, the anger in his eyes was unmistakable.

Wei Huan had never hugged him like that.

Suppressing the bitter ache in his heart, Xue Wu walked over, wrapped an arm around Wei Huan's waist, and said softly, "Wei Huan, don't get too emotional. You might faint again."

Seeing that Wei Huan had finally let go of the other man, Xue Wu gave Nanny Tong a meaningful look and smiled. "You're crying like a little kitten. Wash your face and have something to eat. A Jue and I will go next door to talk."

Wei Huan's face changed. "Xue Wu—"

"Sister, you must be exhausted from the journey. Rest for a while," Huo Jue interrupted. "I also have some things I'd like to discuss with the Duke."

Wei Huan frowned and looked at Huo Jue. The young man's eyes were calm and unreadable, making it impossible for her to refuse.

Huo Jue turned slightly and gestured to Xue Wu. "Duke, after you."

Xue Wu raised an eyebrow, giving Huo Jue a meaningful look before stepping out.

---

It was nearly noon, and the inn was bustling with guests.

As the waiter climbed to the second floor, he saw two strikingly handsome men—similar in height but with截然不同的气质—enter the Heavenly Room one after the other. He couldn't help but mutter, "Huh?" One of them looked familiar.

After a moment, he remembered: the one walking behind was the adopted son of Dr. Su from the end of the street.

Rumor had it he was a scholar and quite popular with the ladies.

But wasn't he an orphan? How did he know the distinguished guests who had arrived today?

Remembering the smiling man's piercing gaze, the waiter shivered and quickly put away his curiosity, heading back downstairs.

---

In the Heavenly Room, as soon as Huo Jue closed the door, a sharp gust of wind swept toward him from behind.

He sidestepped, swiftly grabbing Xue Wu's wrist, only to find the other man's free hand already striking toward a vital point. Huo Jue remained expressionless, bending backward like a bamboo stalk weighed down by snow, narrowly avoiding Xue Wu's strike.

The two exchanged blows in the room, careful to avoid the furniture.

On the windowsill sat a slender vase with a lotus flower. As the two figures moved, the subtle force in the air caused the vase to wobble. Within moments, it toppled over, rolling on the table before plummeting toward the ground.

Xue Wu caught the vase just in time, but in doing so, he took a solid punch from Huo Jue.

He grunted, stepping back, but the vase remained steady in his hand.

Both men stopped.

The water from the vase had already spilled onto the floor. Xue Wu placed it back on the table, ignoring the searing pain from his reopened wound, and smiled appreciatively. "The Huo family's boxing technique—well executed."

Huo Jue wasn't surprised that Xue Wu recognized his style. The Huo family's boxing and spear techniques, passed down from his grandfather, had once made them invincible on the battlefield.

In the Great Zhou, many knew of the technique, but few had mastered its essence.

Huo Jue glanced at Xue Wu's chest, where a small patch of his dark robe was damp with blood.

He looked away and stood calmly by the window. "If the Duke merely wanted to check if I was wearing a mask, you could have asked. There was no need for violence. Feel free to inspect me—I won't resist."

The young man's expression was open and unflinching, his gaze steady and unafraid, even unsettling in its depth.

Xue Wu had interrogated hundreds, if not thousands, of people. None had been as composed as this young man. He wiped the water from his hands and walked over, his fingers tracing Huo Jue's jawline without hesitation.

No mask. The face was real.

The Huo family's boxing technique was also flawlessly executed, something that would take over a decade to master.

He had heard that General Huo had begun teaching Wei Jin the technique at the age of three. Now, at sixteen, it made sense.

"My apologies. If you truly are Wei Jin, you should understand why I had to be cautious," Xue Wu said with a lazy smile, though his eyes were sharp as arrows, searching for any flicker of emotion on Huo Jue's face.

But he found nothing.

From the start, this young man had been inscrutable, his demeanor unshakable, calm and unyielding.

Such a person was either a born deceiver or... truly the young master of the Wei and Huo families, meticulously groomed by both.

Huo Jue nodded. "When the Wei and Huo families were accused of treason and executed, if my sister's identity were exposed, the Duke's residence would also be implicated. It's only natural for you to be cautious."

Xue Wu retracted his hand, hooked a chair with his foot, and sat down. "Let's sit and talk. Didn't you say you had something to discuss?"

Huo Jue glanced at him, knowing Xue Wu wasn't entirely convinced.

The two had only met once, eight years ago. It was no surprise that the commander of the Imperial Guards would be wary of his sudden appearance.

Huo Jue met Xue Wu's gaze calmly, then bowed in gratitude. "When the Wei family faced disaster, it was you who saved my sister's life. For that, I, Wei Jin, thank you."

"No need to thank me," Xue Wu said bluntly. "I saved Wei Huan for my own sake."

"Regardless, you saved my sister, and for that, the Wei family owes you a debt. However," Huo Jue straightened, looking directly at Xue Wu, "you should know that women of the Wei family do not become concubines."

"You're quite bold, meddling in your sister's affairs," Xue Wu's smile faded slightly. "It was a matter of necessity. Without this arrangement, how could I have protected her?"

"Your reasoning is sound. But now that I'm here, I will take over the responsibility of protecting my sister. After all, you will eventually marry and have children. Letting my sister go would be a kindness to you as well."

A kindness?

What nonsense!

Remembering Wei Huan's resolute words—"Wherever A Jue is, that's where I'll stay"—Xue Wu felt a pang of frustration.

These siblings were a handful!

Xue Wu tapped the table with his long fingers, his eyes devoid of amusement. "And if I refuse to let her go?"

"Then marry her. Let her become your wife openly, under the name Wei Huan, to live and die by your side."

"Marry her?" Xue Wu laughed, brushing dust from his sleeve. "You want me to marry her, let the world know she's the eldest daughter of the Wei family of Qingzhou, the former Crown Princess, and then send her to her death?"

Huo Jue remained unruffled by his dismissive tone. His dark eyes gleamed with a hidden light. "Once the Wei and Huo families are cleared of the treason charges, my sister can live openly. What does it matter if she's the eldest daughter of the Wei family then?"

---

Wei Huan absentmindedly sipped a bowl of black chicken soup, her heart still uneasy, fearing that Xue Wu might give her brother a hard time.

Nanny Tong, seeing her distress, gently wiped the soup from her lips and reassured her, "Miss, don't worry. There's been no noise from next door. The Duke and young master must be getting along well. The Duke loves you dearly—he'll treat your brother with respect for your sake."

Wei Huan set down her spoon, silent.

She didn't know if Xue Wu truly loved her, but she was well aware of how cunning and ruthless he could be. Her only concern was that A Jue might be used by him.

As she pondered, there was a knock at the door.

Nanny Tong hurried to open it, revealing Xue Wu and Huo Jue stepping inside. Both looked calm—one indifferent, the other smiling—giving nothing away.

Wei Huan stood and walked over, passing Xue Wu. She caught a faint whiff of blood.

Her eyes flicked to him, noticing his face was paler than when he had left.

She looked away, carefully studying Huo Jue. Seeing that he seemed unharmed, she quietly exhaled in relief.

Xue Wu watched her, a faint smile playing on his lips. "You two have been apart for six years. Now that you've reunited, I'll arrange a place for A Jue in the capital. You can visit him whenever you like. Once Zhao Qian arrives in a couple of days, we'll return to the capital."

At his words, Wei Huan and Huo Jue remained expressionless, but Nanny Tong, standing by the table, beamed with joy.

To her, Xue Wu's offer meant he would take the young master under his protection. With his backing, A Jue could live safely in the capital under a new identity.

Nanny Tong asked for nothing more than the safety and well-being of her mistress and young master.

She looked eagerly at Wei Huan.

But Wei Huan hesitated, then asked Huo Jue, "A Jue, would you come back to the capital with me?"

"No," Huo Jue shook his head gently. A soft smile touched his lips as he added, "Sister, I've found someone I love. After the autumn exams, I plan to marry her."

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TPMCS(rebirth) 17 - Elder sister

 Huo Jue’s gaze was so intense that Jiang Li’s heart raced the closer she got to him. When she finally stood by his side, she caught the faint, lingering scent of musk and bamboo, carried softly on the breeze. It reminded her inexplicably of a dream she’d had while she was ill, and her cheeks flushed as her eyes flickered with a hint of evasion.

Huo Jue looked down at her. "Why are you avoiding me, A Li? Am I less pleasing to the eye than that gentleman from earlier?"

"I’m not avoiding you!" Jiang Li quickly met his dark eyes. "And how could you ever be less pleasing? In all my life, I’ve never seen anyone more handsome than you."

A low chuckle rumbled in the young man’s chest. How could he not adore his A Li? She was so earnest and easily flustered. Knowing she was shy, Huo Jue stopped teasing her and instead asked, "After the dragon boat race, are you heading back to the tavern?"

Jiang Li nodded. "Yes, I need to help Mother brew some sorghum wine."

"Then I’ll walk back with you," Huo Jue said. "I’ve already informed the academy head that I’ll be returning to the pharmacy after the race."

Jiang Li agreed readily.

They hadn’t been talking long when the distant sound of drumbeats echoed through the air. The dragon boat race had begun.

Jiang Li hurried back to the pavilion to watch. At first, she couldn’t help sneaking glances at Huo Jue, but she was soon captivated by the spectacle on the river.

The thunderous drumming and the rhythmic chants of the rowers stirred the crowd into a frenzy of excitement. Jiang Li watched intently, occasionally letting out a cheer or two in sync with the rowers’ cadence.

Huo Jue leaned against the railing, his gaze fixed on the smile playing at Jiang Li’s lips. A faint smile tugged at his own mouth.

Just as the two dragon boats were racing neck and neck, an unremarkable carriage quietly entered Zhu Fu Street through the city gates. The wheels creaked as the carriage came to a stop in front of the Ke Ru Yun Inn.

A waiter, noticing the dusty carriage, hurried to greet the newcomers. His eyes widened as an elderly woman with a stern expression helped a veiled lady step down. The lady’s graceful figure and snow-white hands caught his attention. A gentle breeze lifted the veil slightly, revealing a pair of delicate lips and a finely shaped chin.

The waiter was entranced. Even without seeing her full face, he could tell she was a rare beauty.

He wanted to keep staring, but a cold gaze made him freeze. He turned to see the man who had driven the carriage walking over. The waiter’s breath hitched again.

The man was tall and strikingly handsome, with a face like polished jade. His hair was partially tied up with an ivory pin, revealing a smooth forehead. Below it, a pair of deep, peach-blossom eyes regarded him with a faint, mocking smile.

The waiter’s heart raced, and he quickly bowed, eager to please. "Welcome, esteemed guests! Are you here for a meal or lodging?"

The noble-looking man spoke coolly. "Two of your best rooms."

---

Meanwhile, the dragon boat race had ended. The Zhang family’s steward, Lin, led a group of servants to distribute zongzi to the crowd. It was a tradition for the Zhang family to give out food during festivals like the Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival.

The spectators surged toward the pavilion like a tidal wave, and soon the area was packed. A few stout women shouted, "Form a line! Everyone will get some! No pushing or shoving!"

But the crowd, fearing they’d miss out, ignored the warnings and pressed forward. Arguments broke out, and chaos ensued.

Jiang Li found herself trapped in the throng, unable to move. As the situation grew more chaotic, she stumbled and nearly fell.

Just as panic began to set in, a pair of arms reached out and pulled her to safety.

"A Li, I’ll get you out."

Huo Jue’s broad shoulders and tall frame made him stand out in the crowd. Despite the noise and confusion, Jiang Li felt safe in his arms, as if nothing in the world could harm her.

Once they were out of the pavilion, Huo Jue turned to her, his eyes scanning her for injuries. "Are you hurt anywhere?"

Jiang Li shook her head, smiling and waving her hands to show she was fine. "I’m perfectly fine. I was just a little panicked because I couldn’t find you."

Huo Jue fell silent for a moment.

After the race, the scholars had returned to the academy. Huo Jue had been delayed by a teacher who wanted to speak with him, and by the time he returned, Jiang Li had already been caught in the crowd.

The thought of her frightened expression made his heart ache. He looked at her seriously and said, "If you can’t find me in the future, stay where you are and wait for me. I’ll come find you. I’ll always find you."

Jiang Li’s breath caught. There was a weight to his words that she couldn’t quite place. After a moment, she nodded softly. "Okay."

---

The festival had filled Tong’an City with life, and Yang’s Tavern was bustling with patrons. After escorting Jiang Li back, Huo Jue returned to the pharmacy. As he approached the door, Shen Ting emerged from a side alley, his face alight with excitement. "Second Young Master, the eldest miss has arrived!"

---

At the Ke Ru Yun Inn, Nanny Tong had just helped Wei Huan into the room when she noticed that Lord Xue had followed them in, clearly intending to speak with Wei Huan. Knowing her place, Nanny Tong removed Wei Huan’s veil and said, "Miss, I’ll fetch some water for you to wash your face and buy some light food to settle your stomach."

With that, she curtsied to Lord Xue and left, carefully closing the door behind her.

As soon as the door shut, Xue Wu stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Wei Huan’s waist, sitting her down on the bed with a playful grin. "You and Nanny Tong sneaked out of the estate without letting An Liu and An Qi follow you. I didn’t even get angry about that, so why are you giving me the cold shoulder now?"

Wei Huan had avoided looking at him since they entered the inn. Now, trapped in his arms, she turned her head away and said coldly, "Do I need your permission to go anywhere? Xue Wu, do you really think of me as your concubine?"

Xue Wu chuckled, his peach-blossom eyes glimmering with affection. "You heartless little thing. Ask yourself—do I treat you as a concubine, or as my most cherished treasure?"

Wei Huan turned to look at him, met with his gentle smile and tender gaze. The man had a face that could deceive anyone, with eyes that seemed to hold endless warmth even when he wasn’t smiling. When he looked at you with that smile, it felt as if you were the only person in the world who mattered to him.

Countless women in the capital had fallen for that face.

Wei Huan raised her fist and struck his chest. "Who keeps their most cherished treasure locked up, with guards watching their every move, not allowing them to leave even for a moment?"

Xue Wu let out a pained grunt.

Wei Huan froze. She had been born frail, and though she had put some force behind the punch, it shouldn’t have been enough to hurt him.

"Are you injured? Or are you just acting?" she asked hesitantly.

Xue Wu lowered his eyes, hiding his expression, and then took her hand, guiding it to his chest to undo his robes.

"What are you doing?" Wei Huan’s cheeks flushed as she tried to pull her hand back, but he held it firmly.

Xue Wu pulled his robes open and said softly, "Let me show you whether I’m acting or not."

Wei Huan’s hand stilled, her eyes fixed on his chest. Thick bandages were wrapped around it, and a dark red stain had seeped through.

"During the emperor’s hunt in the western suburbs, as the commander of the Imperial Guards, I had to take an arrow to the chest to get away and find you. Don’t worry, it’s just a minor injury. I’ll recover in a couple of months." Xue Wu released her hand and leaned down to kiss her eyelids. "Little Lychee, it’s not that I want to keep you locked up. It’s your status that makes it impossible for you to leave the estate."

"I know you miss your family, but we don’t even know if this so-called brother of yours is really Wei Jin. How could you be so reckless as to run away from the estate? Do you know how many horses I ran to the ground trying to catch up with you?"

Though his tone was light, there was a noticeable weakness in his voice.

Wei Huan’s eyes reddened. "You’re insane!"

She had deliberately chosen the day of the emperor’s hunt to leave the estate, hoping to delay him. But he had taken an arrow to the chest just to come after her! No wonder he had looked so pale during the journey.

Xue Wu watched the tears welling in her eyes and smiled faintly. "I’m already injured like this. Are you still angry with me?"

"Put your clothes back on," Wei Huan said coldly, avoiding his wound. "I’ll have Nanny Tong find a doctor for you."

"No need. Zhao Qian is already on his way and will be here in two days." Xue Wu straightened his robes, his eyes never leaving her. "You can’t go without your medicine. With him here, I can rest easy on the way back to the capital."

Wei Huan stared at him, her lips pressed together. "I’m not going back to the capital. Wherever A Jue is, that’s where I’ll stay."

---

Nanny Tong, wanting to give her mistress and Lord Xue more time to talk, had gone out to buy food. After selecting some nourishing soup, she stepped out of the shop and saw a tall, elegant young man walking down the street.

The elderly nanny froze, and the food box in her hand fell to the ground with a thud.

Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, "Young Master…"

Inside the inn, Xue Wu’s usual smile faded at Wei Huan’s words. "So even a brother of questionable identity means more to you than I do?" he said with a bitter laugh. "Wei Huan, does any random person hold a higher place in your heart than me?"

Wei Huan clenched the handkerchief in her hand, her already pale lips turning even whiter.

At that moment, footsteps echoed in the hallway, followed by a knock on the door.

"Sister, it’s me."

Wei Huan’s hands trembled, and the pale green handkerchief slipped from her fingers. She rushed to the door and pulled it open.

The young man standing outside was tall and straight. Once, he had only reached her ears, and his voice had been soft and sweet. Now, she had to look up to see his face, which still bore traces of the boy she remembered.

For six years, she had lived quietly in the Wushuang Courtyard, nursing her health, while her younger brother had wandered the world, enduring who knew how much hardship.

Tears fell like pearls from Wei Huan’s eyes as she stood on her toes and hugged Huo Jue tightly, her body trembling with emotion.

"A Jue, I’m sorry. I came too late."

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TPMCS(rebirth) 16 - His A Li had grown up, and now she was starting to catch people's attention

 Jiang Li’s heart suddenly grew cold.

She loved Huo Jue. She wanted to marry him and live a happy, harmonious life with him. For him, she was willing to learn things she didn’t enjoy and do things she disliked, all to make herself worthy of him. But that didn’t mean she was willing to share her husband with someone else. What woman in the world would ever want to share her husband?

"Mother, not everyone in the world takes concubines," Jiang Li said, forcing a smile. "The storyteller at the teahouse once spoke of a prime minister from the previous dynasty who married only one wife in his lifetime. After her death, he refused to remarry. And... I’ve heard that there’s a centuries-old family in Qingzhou whose ancestral rule is that a man can only take a concubine if he has no son by the age of thirty. Once his wife bears a child, he can never take a concubine. Huo Jue might be like that."

Yang Hui Niang sighed softly. "A Li, you’re still young. I’ve been through this, so listen to me. A mismatch in status is never good. I don’t expect you to live a life of wealth and honor, adorned with titles. I just want you to find a kind, honest man who will cherish you and live a peaceful, happy life."

Jiang Li’s smile faded, and she lowered her head, speaking softly. "Mother, back then, Father had no parents and was frail since childhood. Grandfather and Grandmother didn’t approve of you marrying him, but you did it anyway. Have you ever regretted it?"

Yang Hui Niang was momentarily stunned.

Jiang Li leaned her face against her mother’s shoulder, nuzzling like a small animal. "You’ve never regretted it, have you? So, A Li won’t regret it either. As long as Huo Jue is willing to marry me, I’m willing to marry him."

In the past, Jiang Li thought her love for Huo Jue was superficial, just like the many young women on Zhu Fu Street who admired his striking looks. After all, everyone appreciates beauty. Huo Jue had always been cold and aloof, but his jade-like face had captivated countless hearts.

But Jiang Li no longer felt that way. Even if Huo Jue were to lose his handsome face one day, she would still love him. From the moment he arrived on Zhu Fu Street and opened his eyes under her care, she knew he was the man she would marry.

If she loved someone, she would fight for him. She would cherish every good day they had together, because who knew what the future held? A natural disaster or a sudden tragedy could end everything in an instant.

For Jiang Li, a good life was one where her mother, her brother Jiang Ling, and Huo Jue were by her side.

That night, neither mother nor daughter could convince the other. Seeing that Jiang Li was immovable, Yang Hui Niang decided to drop the subject. If Huo Jue came to propose, she would simply decline politely.

In Yang Hui Niang’s eyes, Huo Jue’s affection for Jiang Li was shallow compared to Jiang Li’s years of longing for him. Once Huo Jue went to the capital and met noblewomen from prestigious families, he might forget about Jiang Li altogether.

With that thought, Yang Hui Niang felt at ease. As long as Huo Jue gave up, Jiang Li would eventually let go too.

---

The fifth day of the fifth lunar month was the Dragon Boat Festival, and every year, Tong’an City held dragon boat races on the moat. Magistrate Qian, embroiled in the scandal of favoring his concubine over his wife, was too busy to oversee the event, so the responsibility fell to the city’s wealthiest man, Squire Zhang.

Bi Hong came to deliver a message to Jiang Li, saying that the old lady of the Zhang family had reserved a good spot for her to watch the dragon boat races.

"The old lady said you’ve been ill for a while, and now that you’ve recovered, it’s a good time to join the festivities. Our family has spent a fortune building two dragon boats this year, and we’ve even invited experienced boat racers from Yangzhou. This year’s races are sure to be spectacular."

Jiang Li thanked Bi Hong. "I should have visited the Zhang residence to thank the old lady in person, but I’ve just recovered from my illness, and it might bring bad luck. Please convey my deepest gratitude to her."

Bi Hong chuckled. "You know I’ll handle it. Don’t worry, I’ll tell the old lady that you’re so grateful you could cry."

Jiang Li laughed and brought out two boxes of pastries from the kitchen. "This box is for the old lady, and this one is for you, Sister Bi Hong. When I fell into the water that day, you were there to help me, and you even went through the trouble of retrieving my hairpin from the pond. From now on, whatever you want to eat, I’ll make it for you."

"I won’t hold back, then," Bi Hong said with a smile, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "But I can’t take all the credit. That hairpin was found because your handsome young man paid to have it retrieved. Speaking of which, he’s quite devoted to you."

"My handsome young man?" Jiang Li asked. "You mean Huo Jue?"

"Exactly. Didn’t he tell you?" Bi Hong raised an eyebrow.

Huo Jue hadn’t mentioned it. When Bi Hong returned the hairpin, Jiang Li had excitedly told him it had been found. He had simply smiled and said it was fate, that the heavens couldn’t bear to see her lose such a precious token.

Jiang Li lowered her eyes, a soft smile playing on her lips, her cheeks burning. It wasn’t fate that had returned the hairpin—it was Huo Jue.

Bi Hong, having delivered her message, couldn’t stay long and soon returned to the Zhang residence.

On the day of the festival, Jiang Li dressed early and set off for the moat. The dragon boat races were a major event, and even the academy had given its students a half-day break, allowing the scholars who had been burying themselves in books to enjoy the festivities.

By the time Jiang Li arrived, the banks of the moat were already packed with people. Children perched on their fathers’ shoulders, peering over the crowd to catch a glimpse of the two magnificent dragon boats in the distance, their excitement palpable.

The Zhang family had set up several viewing pavilions at the end of the moat. Jiang Li’s seat was in one of the higher pavilions, offering a clear view of the shimmering water and the two dragon boats ready to race. It was indeed an excellent spot.

Jiang Li glanced around but didn’t see Huo Jue or Jiang Ling. Just as she was about to step out to look for them, a tall, elegantly dressed man in a moon-white robe approached.

It was Zhang Heng, the eldest son of the Zhang family, whom Jiang Li had met a few times before.

Jiang Li quickly curtsied and greeted him.

Zhang Heng’s expression was gentle. "Miss Jiang Li, there’s no need for formalities. I heard from Bi Hong that you’ve been ill. Are you feeling better now?"

In truth, Zhang Heng had learned of Jiang Li’s accident the day after it happened. He had been concerned about her health but dared not show it openly, fearing his grandmother’s disapproval if she thought he was neglecting his studies for a girl. So, he had discreetly asked Bi Hong to deliver the invitation on the old lady’s behalf.

Now, seeing Jiang Li standing gracefully before him, Zhang Heng felt a wave of relief.

Jiang Li was surprised that the young master knew about her illness, but she quickly smiled and replied, "I’m fully recovered now. Thank you for your concern."

As Jiang Li and Zhang Heng spoke, a group of lively young scholars emerged from the academy street nearby. These students, who had been cooped up studying for the imperial exams, were thrilled to have a break and chattered like magpies.

One of Jiang Ling’s friends spotted the pair under the pavilion and nudged Jiang Ling. "Isn’t that your sister?"

Jiang Ling, who had been talking to Huo Jue, glanced at him and noticed the usually calm young man’s expression had turned icy. Following Huo Jue’s gaze, Jiang Ling saw Jiang Li laughing and chatting with a well-dressed gentleman. His heart skipped a beat.

---

To an outsider, Jiang Li and Zhang Heng seemed to be enjoying a pleasant conversation, but Jiang Li felt increasingly awkward. She wasn’t particularly close to Zhang Heng, and she couldn’t understand why he was being so talkative today.

Just as she was wondering how to end the conversation, she caught sight of someone waving at her. She looked up and met a pair of cool, familiar eyes.

Seeing Huo Jue, Jiang Li’s face lit up with a smile. "Master Zhang, my brother is here. I need to go speak with him. Please excuse me."

She curtsied and hurried down the pavilion, her steps light and graceful as she made her way toward Huo Jue.

Jiang Li was wearing a pale yellow dress with a light green overcoat, her hair styled simply and adorned with a pearl hairpin. Her slender waist seemed almost too delicate to hold. As she walked through the warm spring breeze, her fair skin and delicate features made her look like a budding flower—still youthful but already strikingly beautiful.

Huo Jue’s dark eyes briefly flicked toward the man who had been watching Jiang Li, then returned to her bright, smiling face. A faint smile curved his lips.

His A Li was growing up, and now she was starting to attract attention.

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TPMCS(rebirth) 15 - It turns out that he remembered everything she said

 Xue Zhen had spent a cold night in the mountains and returned only to fall into a fever that lasted for days. Her mother, Madam Cao, summoned the best physicians and hired skilled midwives to tend to her bedside day and night.

The rumors about Xue Zhen that had circulated in the city had long been suppressed by Madam Cao. Now, the townsfolk no longer gossiped about Xue Zhen's abduction but instead focused on the scandalous affairs of the magistrate, who favored his concubine over his wife.

When Xue Zhen finally awoke, her first question was about Sui Wu: "Mother, have you dealt with Sui Wu? If she's dead, there will be no evidence of the abduction."

Xue Zhen was immensely relieved that when she was found, her hair was disheveled, and no one had seen her face clearly. She could pin everything on Sui Wu. However, Sui Wu had always been rebellious and might not comply willingly. Keeping her alive was too risky.

Madam Cao wiped Xue Zhen's face with a handkerchief and nodded, "I have plans for Sui Wu. Focus on recovering first. Once you're well, I'll send you to your maternal grandparents' home."

Xue Zhen was taken aback. She looked up at her mother and said firmly, "I won't go."

Madam Cao threw the handkerchief to the ground and snapped, "You will go, whether you like it or not. I've already discussed it with your grandmother. In six months, you will marry your cousin. After the wedding, you can accompany him to the capital for his imperial exams. Your grandmother has always wanted you to marry into the Cao family, and your uncle adores you. This is an excellent match, one that others can only dream of!"

"But cousin already has a fiancée! Miss Chen is living with Uncle now, and he's even prepared the betrothal gifts for her. I have someone I love. Why should I steal someone else's marriage?"

"Why? You still don't understand why?" Madam Cao's chest heaved with anger. "Do you really think that by blaming Sui Wu, everything will be fine? Go out and ask how many people in this city believe your story!"

Xue Zhen's face turned pale. "I don't care what others think. As long as Huo Jue believes me, that's enough. I'll explain it to him myself. If that doesn't work, I'll ask Father to speak to him. He'll surely believe Father."

Madam Cao retorted, "Do you not know your father's character? Do you think he would still want to marry you off to Huo Jue?"

Xue Zhen bit her lip, her eyes reddening.

Madam Cao, seeing her daughter's distress, softened her tone and took Xue Zhen's hand. "Zhen'er, listen to me. You can't stay in Tong'an any longer. Your cousin is talented and has always admired you. How is he any worse than Huo Jue? As for Miss Chen, don't worry about her. She's just an orphan from a fallen family. We can easily accuse her of adultery and drive her out. Zhen'er, you've always been clear-headed. Don't be foolish now. Your cousin is the best match for you."

---

The weather grew hotter with each passing day, and by May, the residents of Tong'an had all switched to lighter clothing.

Xue Zhen sat in a carriage, her expression cold and detached.

Sui Yun, trembling, poured her a cup of floral tea and said cautiously, "Miss, please have some tea to soothe your throat."

Xue Zhen's eyes finally moved, and she stared coldly at Sui Yun.

Sui Yun shivered and lowered her head like a quail. The next moment, Xue Zhen ordered, "Open the curtain. It's stuffy."

"Yes, Miss."

Sui Yun lifted one side of the curtain, and the early summer breeze drifted in. She was about to say something when a sharp pain shot through her wrist.

She turned in alarm to see Xue Zhen staring fixedly out the window at a jewelry shop.

Xue Zhen's nails dug deeply into Sui Yun's thin skin, but Sui Yun dared not cry out in pain. She followed Xue Zhen's gaze and saw a handsome young man standing on the steps of the jewelry shop, looking at a young woman in a light green dress embroidered with flowers.

Perhaps it was the warm sunlight or something else, but the young man's usually cold eyes seemed to soften, like the first thaw of winter snow.

The young woman beside him was Jiang Li, who was smiling as she spoke, a delicate pearl hairpin adorning her hair.

---

Jiang Li touched the hairpin on her head, pleased with the jeweler's craftsmanship.

"When Sister Bi Hong brought the hairpin over, two pearls had fallen off. I never thought the old master could find identical pearls to repair it."

Huo Jue smiled slightly at Jiang Li's delight but suddenly his smile froze. He turned his head toward the street.

A carriage slowly passed by, and through the half-open window, Xue Zhen's face was visible.

Huo Jue met Xue Zhen's gaze with indifference before turning back to shield Jiang Li.

He had already learned from Xue Mao about Xue Zhen's engagement to the Cao family. Xue Zhen had tried to harm Jiang Li, and Huo Jue had spared her life only out of respect for Xue Mao's kindness.

If it weren't for Xue Mao's favor, Huo Jue wouldn't have let Xue Zhen return alive.

Now that she was leaving Tong'an, it was for the best. If she dared to trouble Jiang Li again, Huo Jue wasn't sure he could control his urge to kill.

Jiang Li, oblivious to Xue Zhen's presence in the passing carriage, was preoccupied with her newly repaired hairpin.

"A Li, do you still want to eat steamed cheese?" Huo Jue asked.

Jiang Li's eyes lit up. "Yes! I heard from Ying Ying that the ice shop has introduced several new cheese desserts. The osmanthus-flavored steamed cheese is especially delicious."

The Xue family's carriage had long since disappeared. Huo Jue looked down at Jiang Li's sparkling eyes, a flicker of affection in his gaze. "Let's go. I'll take you to try it."

The owner of the ice shop remembered Huo Jue well. When she saw him bring a young woman in, her face lit up with a wide smile.

"Master Huo is here!" she greeted warmly. "And such a beautiful young lady! Please come in. I'll prepare the best seat for you."

The ice shop was small, and the best seat was by the window.

After ordering dessert for Jiang Li, Huo Jue left the shop. Through the open window, Jiang Li saw his slender figure appear at several nearby food stalls.

When he returned, he carried a food box filled with delicacies: braised goose feet, pea cakes, cream-filled pastries, and sugar-steamed cheese—all the snacks Jiang Li had craved while she was ill.

During her illness, Jiang Li had grown tired of drinking medicine and had tried to avoid it once she felt better.

Huo Jue, knowing this, didn't scold her. Instead, he gently coaxed, "A Li, if you take your medicine, I'll buy you whatever you want to eat once you're well."

Jiang Li had listed many treats, and Huo Jue had remembered every one.

He truly cared about everything she said.

Jiang Li smiled, picking up a pea cake with her chopsticks and placing it in Huo Jue's bowl. "You should have some too."

Huo Jue didn't usually enjoy sweet foods, but if Jiang Li offered, he would eat it.

The young man sat tall and straight, his long, pale fingers holding the rough red chopsticks with an elegance that made even the simplest utensils seem refined.

Jiang Li rested her chin on her hand, watching him eat.

She had noticed long ago that even the most ordinary things seemed extraordinary in Huo Jue's hands.

He carried himself with a grace that stood out on Zhu Fu Street, like a pearl among fish eyes, impossible to overlook.

Feeling Jiang Li's gaze, Huo Jue chewed slowly. After swallowing, he set down his chopsticks and met Jiang Li's bright eyes. His voice was soft but carried a hint of something deeper. "A Li, you'll be coming of age next month. Have you thought about a courtesy name?"

"A courtesy name?" Jiang Li was puzzled. "I haven't thought about it. Ying Ying and A Yan didn't seem to have courtesy names when they came of age."

Jiang Li was right. It was rare for common girls to receive courtesy names upon coming of age, and even their coming-of-age ceremonies were often simple.

The elaborate ceremonies with hairpins and courtesy names were usually reserved for noble young ladies.

Huo Jue looked at her. "Would you let me choose a courtesy name for you?"

---

After leaving the ice shop, the two returned to Zhu Fu Street.

Jiang Li had left home wearing a wooden hairpin but returned with a pearl-adorned hairpin instead.

Yang Hui Niang gave Jiang Li a meaningful look. "When you wore this hairpin to the banquet last time, I thought Ying Ying had lent it to you. Now it seems Huo Jue gave it to you."

Jiang Li quickly took off the hairpin and showed it to her mother, beaming. "Mother, isn't it beautiful? Huo Jue gave it to me as a token of his affection. I almost lost it when I fell into the water last time."

Yang Hui Niang tapped Jiang Li's forehead. "Aren't you ashamed? You're not even of age yet, talking about tokens of affection. If others heard, they'd say you lack propriety."

"I wouldn't tell anyone else, just you, Mother." Jiang Li hugged Yang Huiniang's arm and started to act coquettishly..

Yang Hui Niang knew her daughter was trying to placate her and sighed. "You're so stubborn, determined to run headlong into trouble. Even if Huo Jue does propose, and even if you marry him, do you know what kind of life you'll have?"

"Of course! A harmonious and respectful life, just like you and Father."

Jiang Li's father, Jiang Sui, had passed away when she and her brother Jiang Ling were seven.

In her limited memories, her parents had always been deeply in love. Her mother's fiery temper had softened into tenderness around her father.

Yang Hui Niang gave her a reproachful look. "Your father and Huo Jue are nothing alike. Huo Jue will become an official. Have you heard about the recent scandal with Magistrate Qian favoring his concubine over his wife? His wife was his childhood sweetheart, but after he became a magistrate, he took in a fallen noblewoman as a concubine and doted on her like she was his treasure, letting her bully his wife. A Li, ask yourself: would you be willing to share your husband with another woman?"

Jiang Li's heart turned cold.

She loved Huo Jue and wanted to be with him, to marry him.

For him, she was willing to learn things she didn't enjoy, just to be worthy of him.

But that didn't mean she would be willing to share him with another.

What woman would ever want to share her husband?

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