After Rebirth, My Aloof Husband Can Hear My Inner Thoughts [Transmigration & Rebirth] - Chapter 21

The night was tranquil. The small courtyard brimmed with pear blossom fragrance, its snow-white petals carpeting the ground like flowing moonlight.

The room was dark and silent, unlit. The bedding had been removed from the Arhat Bed, and even the books he often read were neatly arranged on the side table by the door.

As if awaiting his retrieval at any moment.

Only upon entering the inner chamber did Xie Zhizhou suddenly realize he must have gone mad. Intruding into a lady’s private quarters was no conduct for a gentleman. Over twenty years of discipline and composure had been utterly disrupted. He never drank, yet now he felt intoxicated.

He swore he harbored no improper thoughts.

Yet the melting moonlight and wafting floral fragrance stirred his heartstrings. The moment he stepped into Lin Shengshen’s domain, a sweet aroma seeped into his lungs, making them greedy. Lingering in his mind were her honeyed lips aboard the Painted Boat that day and her slender waist adorned with a lotus pouch.

He ought to prefer cool fragrances.

Xie Zhizhou’s heart tightened.

Yesterday, sharing the same room for sleep, he could still maintain a gentleman’s composure without distraction. But now, merely stepping into this space made his throat dry and the muscles of his sturdy back unconsciously tense.

Summer had arrived, and tonight was exceptionally sweltering.

Gazing at the layers of gauze curtains in the distance, he hesitated to approach.

After a few breaths, Xie Zhizhou actually felt the urge to retreat, his chest pounding incessantly.

Just yesterday in the dungeon, he had unhesitatingly severed a kidnapper’s ears. Half a month ago, when raiding Zhang Yin’s residence, amidst the cries of the elderly, weak, women, and children, his composure had not wavered in the slightest.

But now…

A splashing sound of water echoed, followed by a faint, elusive fragrance. Someone emerged barefoot from behind the screen, the dripping sounds gradually ceasing. “Peilan, why haven’t you gone to rest?”

Xie Zhizhou spun around abruptly.

He saw Lin Shengshen casually wrapped in a delicate silk undergarment, with only a loosely tied strap around her neck—the other two, dampened, coiled around her slender waist like crimson snakes.

The clear, cool moonlight streamed in through the latticed window.

Lin Shengshen’s snow-white skin glowed with a lustrous sheen, her drowsy eyes and serene face resembling a tranquil Goddess as she walked toward him.

Something exploded in Xie Zhizhou’s mind—the taut string within him snapped completely. The days of uncertainty and restlessness seemed to have found their answer at last—

He wanted to be husband and wife with Lin Shengshen, not merely as a charade or a respectful partnership, but passionately and eternally.

Xie Zhizhou swiftly turned away, even restraining his breath.

Lin Shengshen approached from under the moonlight. Having just dozed off lightly, her thoughts were languid, and she could barely keep her eyelids open.

Too lazy to fasten the straps of her undergarment, she shielded her chest with one hand, covering herself roughly as she headed toward the bed.

A figure in the shadows shifted slightly but then stilled. Lin Shengshen took another look and realized this figure seemed much taller than Peilan.

Taking another step forward, she recognized the tall, upright silhouette all too well and nearly exclaimed, “Xie Zhizhou!!!”

In the ensuing chaos, Lin Shengshen could find no clothes to wear nearby. She covered herself, unsure where to hide.

“Don’t be afraid,” Xie Zhizhou spoke up at the right moment.

“Don’t look!”

“I won’t look.” Xie Zhizhou’s Adam’s apple bobbed.

Whether to prove his sincerity or restrain himself, Xie Zhizhou turned his back to her and raised his hands to cover his eyes.

Lin Shengshen scrambled onto the bed, burrowed into the blankets, and tightly drew the gauze curtains. Peering through the moonlight, she saw Xie Zhizhou still standing dutifully in place, his back to her, hands covering his eyes without lowering them—the very picture of a gentleman.

“You… what are you doing here in the middle of the night?!”

“I came back to rest.”

“Aren’t you sleeping in the study?”

“I never said that.”

“…” Lin Shengshen recalled—he truly hadn’t.

Suddenly, Lin Shengshen realized a crucial point: if she hadn’t been mistaken earlier, when she emerged from behind the screen, that figure had been facing her…

“Did you see me just now?!”

“I did not.” Xie Zhizhou told the first lie of his life.

Lin Shengshen naturally believed it; she knew Xie Zhizhou was a true gentleman.

“You can put your hands down now.”

Xie Zhizhou complied, lowering his hands and turning to face the gauze curtains. His tall, imposing figure exuded an unyielding integrity.

[Oh no, I thought Xie Zhizhou wouldn’t come anymore, so I told Peilan to throw away his bedding…]

Xie Zhizhou’s gaze swept over the Arhat Bed. Clearly, he had no intention of sleeping there.

He strode toward the bathing chamber.

Lin Shengshen said, “I’ve instructed all the servants to rest. There’s no hot water at this hour.”

“I’ll use cold water,” his voice was low and hoarse.

Lin Shengshen said nothing more.

This bath seemed to take longer than usual.

Just as Lin Shengshen was growing drowsy, Xie Zhizhou finally emerged from the bathing chamber. His upper body was bare, his robust muscles tracing perfect lines. Droplets of water rolled down his sharply defined abdomen, disappearing beneath the thin fabric of his trousers.

Lin Shengshen gasped, “What are you doing?!”

[Has Xie Zhizhou lost his mind? Shameless! We’re barely acquainted, sharing a room, and he dares not wear sleepwear?]

[Hypocrite!]

Xie Zhizhou replied calmly, “I couldn’t find any sleepwear.”

[Oh no, I threw it away along with the bedding today…]

Lin Shengshen fell silent for a moment before changing the subject. “I never keep extra bedding in my room. The Arhat Bed… You should return to your study.”

Since his duties had grown demanding, he rarely rested in his own courtyard, preferring to stay in his study, which was fully equipped and no less comfortable than anywhere else.

The Arhat Bed was made of mottled bamboo, cool and refreshing in summer. But sleeping on it without bedding through the night would surely lead to a chill.

Xie Zhizhou had already walked to the Arhat Bed and sat down, saying indifferently, “His Majesty is concerned about the Xie-Lin marriage. We cannot defy His Majesty’s wishes again.”

With that, he lay down, facing Lin Shengshen’s bed.

Lin Shengshen nodded. So be it—this was a matter of necessity.

[Xie Zhizhou was furious during the day, and now he’s forced to share my room at night. It can’t be easy for him.]

[His Majesty isn’t exactly righteous either—demanding that Xie Zhizhou uphold justice and integrity while also using his charms to strengthen the Xie-Lin alliance. Hah, truly…]

[Making the most of every resource.]

Xie Zhizhou: “…”

He opened his eyes, gazing at the bright moonlight outside the window, when a sudden thought crossed his mind—

Lin Shengshen had a red mole beside her navel, the same vibrant, enticing shade as her lips.

The moon outside burned with a white flame, growing fiercer, as if intent on reducing those on earth to ashes.

Xie Zhizhou dared not look at the moon any longer and forced his eyes shut.

The Heart Sutra he had copied earlier in the evening flowed through his mind.

Suddenly, footsteps approached. Before Xie Zhizhou could open his eyes, a soft, fragrant brocade quilt was thrown over his head.

After tossing the quilt, Lin Shengshen hurried back to her bed and lay down.

[If he catches a chill, won’t I be at risk of getting sick? Better to share a quilt with him.]

Xie Zhizhou adjusted the quilt, deliberately covering only his chest and below, keeping it far from his face.

The quilt carried Lin Shengshen’s subtle fragrance—a blend of sweet pear, frankincense, primrose, and perhaps some unnamed floral scent he couldn’t identify.

Whatever it was, the aroma was unsettling. He slowed his breathing.

The quilt was warm, seemingly still retaining a trace of Lin Shengshen’s body heat.

At this thought, Xie Zhizhou took a deep breath, inadvertently drawing her scent into his lungs once more.

Impossible to guard against.

Xie Zhizhou gave up resisting, allowing certain changes to quietly manifest. Fortunately, the embroidered quilt concealed them, sparing her any offense.

Perhaps due to drinking too much tea during the day, Xie Zhizhou’s mind was unusually clear at this moment. He no longer wished to remain in such disarray and spoke: “I have refused Father—I will not take the Zhou family’s daughter into our household. Lin Shengshen, I will not take a concubine.”

He had mentioned this matter some days ago, but she seemed indifferent, still making arrangements for Zhou Qiong’s residence.

Xie Zhizhou did not want anyone else living in Tangli Residence.

The room remained silent for a long while. Xie Zhizhou heard no sound from the bed, only faint, steady breaths—

Lin Shengshen had long fallen asleep.

Xie Zhizhou simply pulled the quilt higher, allowing Lin Shengshen’s scent to recklessly invade his chest, conquering and plundering.

He had no power to resist anyway.

The wind stirred the clouds, tree shadows scattered, and the moonlight dimmed.

Xie Zhizhou finally calmed his mind and was able to sleep peacefully. Yet, in his drowsiness, he suddenly heard soft sobbing from the bed.

Just like yesterday, he heard her dream.

[“I truly don’t know what happened to Third Miss Zhou’s face. Why won’t you believe me, Zhizhou-gege?”]

His voice was cold. “You shouldn’t be so jealous.”

[“I really don’t want her to enter the household as a concubine. I don’t want you to take a concubine, but I’ve never harbored any ill intentions. How can I prove myself for you to believe me?”]

He remained stubborn. “Zhou Qiong’s face was harmed by the poisonous incense from Baoxiang Tower. You are the owner of Baoxiang Tower—what is there to argue?”

[“I didn’t…”]

He grew impatient. “Earlier, I met with Miss Zhou to clarify that I have no intention of taking her as a concubine. Why must you cling to this and stir up rumors?”

[“I only saw you two together and cried until my vision blurred, then accidentally fell into the water…”]

He said nothing.

She kept crying, gently tugging his sleeve. “Zhizhou-gege…”

He stepped out of the carriage, his clothes soaked, and rode back to the estate alone on horseback.

Unwilling to share the carriage with her.

Xie Zhizhou abruptly opened his eyes and sat up.

Looking toward the bed once more, Lin Shengshen had turned over, seemingly wiping the corners of her eyes in her sleep.

Xie Zhizhou strode to the Canopy Bed, drawing back the layers of sheer curtains just in time to see Lin Shengshen, eyes tightly shut, her face streaked with tears, still asleep.

“Lin Shengshen.”

His voice was soft, not waking her.

A section of Lin Shengshen’s fair wrist rested on the embroidered quilt. In the hazy moonlight, faint red marks were visible—likely from their daytime dispute. Xie Zhizhou reached out and gently stroked the skin, then tucked her wrist back under the quilt.

His slender fingers lingered on her cheek. The cold, wet tears felt like daggers piercing his fingertips.

His heart ached with a sharp pain. He wiped Lin Shengshen’s tears and stood by the bed for a long time.

Third Miss Zhou had never been disfigured. He had never met with Third Miss Zhou in private, nor had he abandoned Lin Shengshen to ride back alone.

And the Wu family’s banquet where Lin Shengshen fell into the water was clearly two days later.

Yet the pain in his heart and Lin Shengshen’s tears felt so real.

Gazing at Lin Shengshen curled up fast asleep on the inner side of the bed, his eyes grew somber and unreadable. Lowering the sheer curtains, he returned to the Arhat Bed and lay down. Only then did Xie Zhizhou realize—

It was as if the Lin Shengshen in his dreams was the same person from a month ago—cold, distant, arrogant, and impatient.

The irreconcilable conflict between the Xie and Lin families, Lin Shengshen’s restless and improper demeanor, and her persistent pursuit of him all filled him with disgust.

This marriage had forced him to wed Lin Shengshen, so he had never treated her well.

If only he could start over…

Unfortunately, no one could turn back time.

Through the long night, Xie Zhizhou lay awake.

Early the next morning, Lin Shengshen sipped on perilla tea while Peilan combed her hair behind her.

“Miss, did the young master come last night?” Peilan glanced at the brocade quilt on the Arhat Bed, embroidered with lotus flowers in gold thread—it was Lin Shengshen’s bedding.

Lin Shengshen sighed deeply. “Yes, it seems I won’t be able to shake him off anytime soon. I never expected Xie Zhizhou to be so patient.”

After a moment’s thought, Peilan offered advice, “This servant has noticed that the young master treats you differently than before. Why not try getting closer to him? Forgive my bluntness, but Young Master Xie is one of the most outstanding figures in Yunjing. If you divorce, it would be hard to find anyone better in the future.”

Lin Shengshen replied with a hint of pride, “You’re not wrong. Your lady has always had good taste.”

“But whether the future is good or not doesn’t depend on his looks or family background—it depends on how he treats me.”

“Even if he were as wealthy as a king and as handsome as a celestial, if he treats me poorly, none of it matters.”

Lin Shengshen looked at Peilan through the mirror. “Do you want your lady to marry a husband who cherishes and loves her, living a comfortable life? Or do you want her to suffer as before, chasing after someone unattainable and living in sorrow?”

Peilan fastened a phoenix hairpin for her and gazed at Lin Shengshen’s radiant, porcelain-skinned reflection in the mirror, smiling. “Naturally, this servant hopes you marry someone who cares for you, so you may smile every day.”

Lin Shengshen stood up and twirled in front of the mirror. “Exactly.”

“I just feel this lychee-colored dress is too bright. It would be better paired with some elegant jade.”

Peilan pondered for a moment and suddenly remembered, “This servant recalls there’s a Heart Lock Pendant tucked away in your dressing case. It has exquisite patterns and a pure white hue—wouldn’t it be perfect with this dress?”

[It is beautiful, but… back when we were both unmarried, I never wore this pendant. Now… I won’t take it out either.]

Watching Peilan retrieve the pendant, Lin Shengshen remembered its origin. She held it in her palm, lost in thought for a moment, then said, “Never mind. Put the Heart Lock Pendant away carefully and don’t take it out casually.”

Peilan returned the Heart Lock Pendant to the inner compartment of the dressing case and instead selected a white jade pendant carved with fish and lotus blossoms, fastening it to Lin Shengshen’s waist.

Just as the mistress and maid stepped out, they ran into Xie Zhizhou, who had just returned. He paused upon seeing Lin Shengshen, his gaze seemingly sweeping over her dress.

But in the end, he said nothing, walking straight into the room without a sideways glance.

[How does he appear so suddenly? He startled me.]

“Let’s go. Shopkeeper Zhu must be growing impatient.”

[If we don’t leave soon, I’ll probably have to endure more of Xie Zhizhou’s cold remarks.]

The Xie family rules were extremely strict, especially when it came to restraining women—something Lin Shengshen had found particularly troublesome in the past.

In her previous life, she had faced countless reproaches merely for wearing bright-colored dresses, adorning herself with gold and jade hairpieces, and even spending lavishly on fragrances.

At first, it was Xie Changxing who aggressively insinuated and mocked her, frequently implying that the Lin family had shallow roots but put on airs, and that they didn’t know how to restrain themselves after gaining some status. His sharp words and contemptuous attitude were deeply unpleasant.

Naturally, Lin Shengshen didn’t let him off easily either.

The more Xie Changxing tried to restrain and discipline her, the more determined she became to wear bright colors, adorn herself lavishly, flaunt her style, and defy him openly, often leaving him fuming with rage, exclaiming that she was unreasonable, hopeless, and lawless.

In the end, it was Xie Zhizhou who could no longer stand the chaotic atmosphere and put a stop to it. After a stern reprimand, Lin Shengshen became as timid as a quail, her fighting spirit completely crushed.

She was bold and flamboyant, unable to tolerate the slightest injustice or provocation, but Xie Zhizhou was an exception.

She tread carefully, following his every step, losing herself in the process yet receiving no response in return. This door she could never knock open, she finally saw clearly and let go.

Xie Zhizhou entered the inner chamber and watched through the lattice window as Lin Shengshen’s dress fluttered and danced in the wind. She walked under a butterfly-patterned umbrella and disappeared into the depths.

The butterflies on the umbrella were vivid, but not as lively as she was; the summer flowers were in full bloom, but not as enchanting as she was.

She was born to wear vibrant colors—lively, spirited, charming, and bold. That was the true Lin Shengshen.

He stood before Lin Shengshen’s dressing mirror, mulling over the conversation he had unintentionally overheard earlier.

Heart Lock Pendant.

This should be a token of love between a man and a woman.

Xie Zhizhou was certain that he and Lin Shengshen did not possess a pair of Heart Lock Pendants.

Unmarried and unbetrothed… Could it be that she had given him one before, and he had returned it? Xie Zhizhou suddenly thought.

He stood there silently for a long time, his mind in turmoil. Secretly rummaging through a woman’s private belongings was not the act of a gentleman.

Xie Zhizhou’s hand, which had been resting on the dressing case, withdrew as if it had touched a flame.

For some inexplicable reason, he felt as if something was missing in his heart. The image of the Fan Pendant with the Immortal Child Holding Lotus flashed before his eyes—

Without hesitation, he opened Lin Shengshen’s dressing case and found, tucked away in the innermost compartment, a Heart Lock Pendant, about the size of a palm, with a love knot at the end and shimmering tassels.

“Eternal Union of Hearts”—it symbolized profound affection.

A moment later, Xie Zhizhou emerged from the main room, and Yuan Qing followed.

After returning from court, the young master had said he left something at Tangli Residence and needed to retrieve it, so he hurried back.

But… Yuan Qing noticed that Xie Zhizhou hadn’t taken anything with him.

If others saw this, they might think the young master of the Xie family was so eager to return home, missing his wife, that he rushed back just to catch a glimpse of her.

“Go and carefully search for what I asked you about earlier.”

Yuan Qing thought for a moment before realizing that he was being asked to search again for the items that had flowed in like a stream before Miss Lin’s marriage, to see if anything had been left behind.

Yuan Qing grimaced—how was he supposed to find them?

Xie Zhizhou always handled matters cleanly and efficiently and expected the same from Yuan Qing. Since the young master had previously ordered that not a single item from Miss Lin was to remain in the Xie residence, Yuan Qing had carried out the task meticulously, ensuring nothing was left behind.

Xie Zhizhou returned to his study, stood before the desk, and swiftly sketched a Heart Lock Pendant in one go. He instructed, “Use this drawing to search for it.”

Yuan Qing had no choice but to comply.

—

In recent days, Baoxiang Tower had been operating smoothly, allowing Lin Shengshen to focus her attention on the collaboration with Wan Jin Tower.

Her abacus clicked rapidly, while Zhu Yu stood beside her, beaming with joy.

“Miss, your clever idea—if we can truly produce that batch of goods, within a year, Baoxiang Tower could open another branch in the prosperous Jiangnan region!”

Lin Shengshen looked up. “Jiangnan? Compared to Jiangnan, I’m more interested in the location of Xiangyun Tower.”

Zhu Yu had never imagined Lin Shengshen possessed such audacity. Though Xiangyun Tower’s business was bleak, it had managed to stand firm for so long—someone must be backing it.

Taking over Xiangyun Tower and having Baoxiang Tower operate two establishments facing each other on the same street would create an overwhelmingly grand spectacle. Zhu Yu dared not envision it, much less attempt it.

Lin Shengshen maintained a placid expression as she meticulously calculated the accounts in her hands.

She noticed Zhu Yu’s increasingly haggard appearance and the deliberately modest clothing she wore despite the summer heat.

The gambler had beaten her again.

Lin Shengshen deliberately pretended not to see Zhu Yu’s hesitant, unspoken plea, keeping her head down to focus on the accounts.

Finally, after much internal struggle, Zhu Yu spoke with difficulty: “Miss, my daughter Wan’er has been ill these days, but I’m truly short on funds. I wonder if I could borrow some silver in advance from you?”

Lin Shengshen looked up.

Zhu Yu hastily added: “Just advance next month’s share—I won’t take a single coin from Baoxiang Tower!”

Lin Shengshen smiled wryly and said gently: “Shopkeeper Zhu, it’s not that I won’t help you. As you can see, cooperating with Wan Jin Tower requires a large deposit, and… recently I had Baidou give you some money. Currently, I’m not well-off either—I truly wish I could help but lack the means.”

Zhu Yu fell silent, forcing back the tears of anxiety welling in her eyes. Since marrying into the Xie family, Lin Shengshen had faced constant constraints. Having watched Lin Shengshen grow up after arriving in Yunjing with Chen Yuying all those years ago, she couldn’t bear to trouble her further.

Zhu Yu forced a smile: “It’s nothing serious, Miss. Please don’t worry about it. I must have lost my mind, forgetting about the money from earlier. Today I’ll withdraw some to treat Wan’er.”

Lin Shengshen asked with concern: “What exactly is wrong with Wan’er? Does she need any medicinal herbs?”

Zhu Yu evaded: “No, no need.”

Understanding, Lin Shengshen asked no more.

Not until evening did Lin Shengshen board the carriage back to the Xie residence. She called Baidou and Peilan to join her inside.

“Baidou, go borrow some strong men from my brother, then…” Lin Shengshen whispered a few instructions in her ear.

Baidou accepted the order and disembarked.

Peilan looked puzzled, “Miss, didn’t we give Shopkeeper Zhu some money recently? Why not give her more now?”

Lin Shengshen fanned the incense smoke from the burner and carefully sniffed it. “This batch of lotus leaves from the south is quite good—the fragrance is clean and transparent. General Wen has been thoughtful.”

After this praise, she answered Peilan: “When greed has been nurtured large enough, there’s no need to keep feeding it.”

Suddenly grasping the key point, Peilan exclaimed in surprise: “Miss, you’ve been intentionally giving Shopkeeper Zhu money to make her gambler husband grow insatiable, until…”

Lin Shengshen nodded, “Until he loses his head and does something unpredictable.”

“That’s too dangerous!”

Lin Shengshen picked up an ancient text and began flipping through it. “It only appears dangerous—in reality, everything is under control.”

“But if Shopkeeper Zhu finds out later, won’t she blame you?”

“Hmm, I haven’t considered that. Whether she blames me or not—what does it matter to me?”

Recalling her previous life, Lin Shengshen continued: “I merely calculated how events would unfold and employed slight means to accelerate the process. Without doing so, how could I control the overall situation?”

“As for the rest.” Lin Shengshen looked at Peilan. “Whether Zhu Yu thanks me or hates me has no effect on me.”

“Wan’er must not repeat the same mistakes.”

Peilan took a long time to digest this, remaining silent for a moment before saying: “Miss, you’re so calculating now—you actually remind me of the Madam!”

Like mother?

Lin Shengshen pursed her lips into a faint smile. Her mother was intelligent and resolute—had she possessed even half her mother’s strength in her past life, she wouldn’t have ended up dying alone and destitute, watching the Lin family fall into ruin.

By the time she returned to Tangli Residence, dusk had settled. Xie Zhizhou had already lit the lamps and was reclining on the Arhat Bed, reading a book.

It was rare for him to be back so early. Lin Shengshen entered the room, and the two of them fell into a tacit silence.

But Lin Shengshen could sense that Xie Zhizhou was in a foul mood.

Over the years, she had come to know him inside out. When he was angry, he wouldn’t say much—to an outsider, it might even seem like Young Master Xie was the epitome of gentlemanly composure.

But Lin Shengshen knew better. This kind of silent, cold treatment was the most hurtful. She would rather he argued with her openly—even if it meant raised voices or tears—than endure this detached, icy indifference.

But that was nothing more than a futile hope.

In her past life, Lin Shengshen had feared nothing more than Xie Zhizhou’s anger. Whenever he was upset, she would go out of her way to placate him.

Of course, in the end, she always realized that the only way to stop his anger was for her to leave…

But now—

“Peilan, fetch the dominoes! Bring Baidou along too—we’re going to have some fun later!” Lin Shengshen tossed off her outer robe and strode into the bathing chamber.

[Angry? Perfect—let’s give you even more reason to fume.]

Xie Zhizhou set down the book he hadn’t read a single word of and watched as Lin Shengshen disappeared into the bathing chamber without so much as a backward glance.

“……” How did she know he was angry?

The moment Peilan heard they were playing dominoes, she nearly jumped for joy. After all, Lin Shengshen had always loved playing with dominoes—back in her maiden days, she would often play through the night.

But ever since marrying into the Xie household, Lin Shengshen hadn’t touched them once.

Partly because she feared Young Master Xie would look down on such pastimes, dismissing them as frivolous distractions, and partly because… she had been too consumed by melancholy to muster any enthusiasm for games.

After her bath, Lin Shengshen emerged, drying her hair with a cloth. Her tea-white sleeping robe hung loosely about her. Xie Zhizhou averted his gaze and returned to his book.

The three women gathered around a low crane-knee table, each pouring herself a small cup of cherry wine.

Lin Shengshen shuffled the dominoes with practiced flair, then arranged them in pairs. Taking the dice Baidou handed her, she selected one, blew on it for luck, and tossed it onto the table.

The dice wobbled to a stop. Peilan leaned in to check the result, then shifted as if to stand. “No, no—rolling a six before we’ve even started? With luck like that tonight, I’m not playing!”

Baidou tugged her back, laughing. “Are you still scared from last time you drank? I’ll drink for you this round, how about that? Sit back down.”

Lin Shengshen said, “What’s there to fear? We’re just linking tiles.” With that, she counted out six linked dominoes.

From behind several layers of bamboo curtains, Xie Zhizhou watched the three of them huddled under the glazed lamp, engrossed in their game of dominoes, and fell silent.

Just then, Baidou exclaimed, “Three of Dots!” She flipped over her second tile and groaned, “Ah, how did I get a Mixed Eight?” After all that excitement, her two tiles only added up to one point.

Peilan nudged her. “Looks like you’re no good either! Better save your stomach for your own drinks.” She then revealed her own tiles—one Curved Mixed Seven and one Flat Mixed Seven, forming a perfect pair of military tiles.

Peilan gasped, “Seven! Seven!”

Lin Shengshen raised an eyebrow and flipped her tiles—two red fives, their ten crimson dots scattered like orderly red beans.

Peilan and Baidou slumped in defeat. “A Perfect Pair on the first draw!” they cried in unison, then downed their cherry wine.

“Good thing we didn’t bet money with you today, or we’d have lost our entire month’s allowance!”

Lin Shengshen chuckled, “When have I ever actually taken your money? Don’t push your luck when you’re already getting off easy.”

The three of them regained their excitement, huddling together to continue playing pai gow.

Xie Zhizhou was too distracted by their noise to focus on his book. As the moon reached its zenith, the trio grew even more animated.

During one round, Lin Shengshen actually drew the Monkey King card. Overjoyed, she sprang to her feet and circled the low table, urging Peilan and Baidou to drink.

She was like a vibrant butterfly fluttering about.

Xie Zhizhou shook his head, withdrew his gaze, and returned to his book, an inexplicable smile curling his lips.

The mistress and her maids played until Baidou grew drunk and began babbling nonsense before finally dispersing.

Peilan helped Baidou out, while Lin Shengshen went to the bathhouse to wash up, then blew out the lamp and lay back on the bed.

Glancing at Xie Zhizhou, she noticed something unexpected—

Instead of growing even angrier or seething with rage as she had imagined, he… why wasn’t he upset anymore? In fact, he seemed rather cheerful.

Lin Shengshen couldn’t be bothered to ponder it further. She yawned, turned over, and fell asleep.

Xie Zhizhou waited until all sounds from the bed had ceased before rising from his desk and entering the main room. After bathing, he lay down on the Arhat Bed.

Perhaps Lin Shengshen was exhausted from playing, as she slept soundly that night. Xie Zhizhou waited for a long time but heard no dreams from her, so he relaxed and drifted off.

In the morning, Lin Shengshen was surprised to see Xie Zhizhou already awake. He had washed, dressed, and was seated in an official’s armchair, sipping tea.

Still drowsy, Lin Shengshen was helped by Peilan to wash and dress. By the time she was ready, it was already mid-morning. She glanced toward Xie Zhizhou.

[What is he doing here? Doesn’t he have official duties to attend to today?]

Xie Zhizhou’s gaze swept over her, and he said casually, “There’s a wedding banquet today. I’ll go with you.”

Lin Shengshen suddenly remembered. Right, Xie Zhizhou was going—not only going but also meeting with the Zhou family’s Third Miss and having a long conversation with her.

[I almost forgot. He’s going to take a concubine.]

“…” Xie Zhizhou cleared his throat lightly. “Don’t wander around today. Make sure Peilan stays close to you.”

Lin Shengshen nodded.

[Of course, I shouldn’t wander. What if I accidentally see the two of them getting too familiar? That would be an awkward scene.]

Xie Zhizhou frowned. Lin Shengshen seemed to know a great deal—whether it had happened or not, accurate or not.

Could all this really come from her dreams?

“Wu Zhen’s family is large and complicated. I’m going partly to investigate. To avoid unnecessary entanglements, it’s best if you behave properly,” he said sternly.

Lin Shengshen gave an ambiguous smile. “Fine.”

[Anyway, I’ve already prepared the quarters for Third Miss Zhou. Even if you bring her back today, it won’t be a problem.]

“…”

Xie Zhizhou felt a surge of frustration. He set down his teacup and left with a cold expression.

“How unreasonable.”

Lin Shengshen muttered under her breath and paid him no further mind. Pointing to a gold hairpin in the box, she said to Peilan, “Wear this in the bun behind my ear.”

—

Wu Zhen held a third-rank position. Because his ancestors had taken multiple wives and concubines, his family was vast. Some even joked privately: The Wu family casts a wide net to catch big fish—keep having children, and eventually, one will turn out successful. As long as there’s one, it’ll be enough to support the Wu family for decades.

The morning’s conversation had been unpleasant.

Though Lin Shengshen didn’t understand what exactly had angered Xie Zhizhou, she knew better than to provoke him further. So, she took Xie Zhenhuan’s hand and left.

“Take your time to look around carefully. Many young masters from various families are here today. See if there’s anyone you like,” Lin Shengshen whispered in reminder.

Xie Zhenhuan blushed, “Sister-in-law, what are you talking about? In my heart, there’s only Wulin brother.”

Lin Shengshen gave her a reproachful glance, “There’s no harm in looking at a few more first.”

As she spoke, Lin Shengshen gestured with her eyes toward a young master in white robes not far away, “See, if I remember correctly, that’s the eldest son of Minister Liu’s family. He passed the imperial examination in the top three ranks two years ago. His future is boundless.”

Xie Zhenhuan stole a shy glance, “He doesn’t look as majestic as Wulin brother.”

Lin Shengshen said, “I think you’re seeing him through rose-colored glasses.”

[After looking around, Young Master Chen is still the best—]

Lin Shengshen’s gaze fell on a man on the other side—broad shoulders, narrow waist, tall stature, his upright posture quite similar to Xie Zhizhou’s.

[He looks strong!]

“…” Was she choosing for Zhenhuan, or for herself?

Xie Zhizhou took two steps forward, nodding in acknowledgment of the compliments from several officials.

Blocked from view, Lin Shengshen withdrew her gaze and walked toward the banquet area, chatting and laughing with Xie Zhenhuan.

Xie Zhenhuan kept looking back every few steps, tugging at Lin Shengshen’s sleeve, “Brother is still behind us, sister-in-law. Let’s wait for him.”

Lin Shengshen tapped Xie Zhenhuan’s forehead lightly, then glanced back indifferently at Xie Zhizhou.

“Your brother? He’ll be quite busy today.” He still needs to hurry off to see Third Miss Zhou.

After saying this, Lin Shengshen led Xie Zhenhuan away.

Hearing these words, Xie Zhizhou paused momentarily, his expression turning colder as he quickened his pace to follow the two figures ahead. However, numerous officials approached to greet him as soon as they spotted him. After several rounds of pleasantries, by the time Xie Zhizhou had a free moment again, Lin Shengshen had long disappeared from sight.

The Wu family’s celebratory banquet was handled with practiced grandeur. From the standards of the four departments and six bureaus to the meticulous arrangements in every detail, everything was managed with effortless ease, leaving no room for criticism.

Walking beneath the flower corridor, Lin Shengshen caught occasional whiffs of fragrance. She sniffed carefully and frowned, “Why does this Lotus Crossing scent carry a hint of bitterness?”

Xie Zhenhuan sniffed hard, “Does it? I don’t smell it. I only detect the coolness of mint.”

If Lin Shengshen remembered correctly, the Wu family’s incense master was Xunniang, who had gone to Baoxiang Tower to make purchases that day.

Xunniang had earned Zhu Yu’s praise and had served in the Wu family for years, indicating she was no ordinary incense master—she must possess considerable skill.

Lotus Crossing was a commonly used incense for officials’ banquet settings, frequently deployed in waterside pavilions and similar locations. With such regular use, mistakes shouldn’t occur.

Lin Shengshen shook her head and stopped pondering it. She would need to ask Xunniang clearly the next time they met at Baoxiang Tower.

Before they could enter the banquet area, a familiar-looking maid approached, first offering respectful greetings to Lin Shengshen and Xie Zhenhuan.

“Miss Lin, my young lady seeks a word with you. I wonder if you might have a moment.”

Lin Shengshen thought for a while but couldn’t recall where she had seen this maid before. Puzzled, she asked, “Which young lady is yours?”

Lingbi was taken aback, not expecting Miss Lin to have forgotten so quickly. She replied, “Third Miss of the Zhou family. We had the honor of meeting you once before.”

Lin Shengshen uttered an “Oh.”

She wondered what Zhou Qiong wanted with her today.

The medicinal herbs and consultation fees had been delivered to Zhou Mansion by Baidou that very day. By this time, Zhou Qiong should have fully recovered.

By all accounts, she and Zhou Qiong were square.

Moreover, shouldn’t Zhou Qiong be looking for Xie Zhizhou today? Why come to her? This hadn’t happened in her previous life.

Lin Shengshen thought to herself, perhaps Zhou Qiong was worried about potential difficulties with her future mistress and had come specifically to pay her respects first.

That did seem plausible.

Lin Shengshen nodded, signaling for Xie Zhenhuan to take his seat first, then followed Lingbi along a winding path beneath the flower corridor.

Along the way, Lin Shengshen kept her eyes downcast and remained silent. This path was all too familiar to her—on this very day in her previous life, she had followed this same route to find Xie Zhizhou, only to discover him meeting privately with Zhou Qiong, and then…

“Miss Lin, my lady is waiting for you in the pavilion.”

Lin Shengshen cut off her thoughts, lifted her skirt, and ascended the steps into the pavilion.

“Miss Zhou, has your skin recovered?” Lin Shengshen sat down casually on the decorative rail, her tone not particularly gentle.

From the very first day they met, Zhou Qiong had sensed that Lin Shengshen harbored some animosity toward her.

Initially, Zhou Qiong assumed this hostility was because the Xie family had chosen her as a concubine, and Lin Shengshen—who was famously known throughout Yunjing for her affection for Xie Zhizhou—naturally resented her.

But upon closer reflection, there had been no news of the Xie family taking a concubine on the day they first met. Moreover, after repeated observations, she realized that Lin Shengshen’s animosity seemed defensive in nature.

It was as if Zhou Qiong had harmed her before; every time they met, Lin Shengshen would instantly adopt a colder demeanor to protect herself.

Zhou Qiong was certain they had never crossed paths before and found Lin Shengshen’s temperament utterly perplexing.

Zhou Qiong bowed. “Thank you for the medicinal herbs, Miss Lin. I have fully recovered.”

Lin Shengshen skipped the pleasantries and got straight to the point. “What brings you to me today? If it’s about entering the Xie household in the future, there’s no need to be apprehensive. As long as you behave properly, I will treat you well.”

Zhou Qiong replied, “It is indeed about the matter of becoming a concubine, but not about entering the Xie household.”

“?”

Zhou Qiong continued, “Miss Lin, my own mother was a concubine. After giving birth to me, she was abandoned by my father and died of illness in a small courtyard. I grew up in that courtyard, and not a single day was happy.”

Lin Shengshen frowned, studying the person before her. Zhou Qiong wore a faded green dress in an outdated style, looking frail and refined, yet her eyes held more light than during their first meeting.

“Entering the Xie household as a concubine is not my wish. It is my father’s gesture of sincerity to forge ties with the Xie family.”

Some time ago, Xie Zhizhou had indeed expressed reluctance to take a concubine. It seemed this matter was solely Old Master Xie’s unilateral decision.

Lin Shengshen asked, “What do you intend to do?”

Zhou Qiong said, “Before this, my family had already betrothed me to a poor scholar. He is a man of noble character. Though he may not offer great wealth or status, I am content. Miss Lin, I beg you to persuade the Xie family to reject me as a concubine. Would that be possible?”

“Are you certain? Although marrying into the Xie household as a concubine, you would enjoy a life of luxury, no longer confined to cramped quarters or constrained by the Zhou family. But if you marry into poverty, your living conditions may be worse than your current situation in the Zhou Mansion.”

“I remember during our first meeting, Miss Lin, you advised me to have my own resolve. I have pondered this deeply. Rather than living a life with no end in sight, I would rather seek a future filled with hope.”

Zhou Qiong gazed into Lin Shengshen’s eyes.

Lin Shengshen could no longer recall exactly what she had said to Zhou Qiong—perhaps it was merely a passing remark.

“As long as you have made up your mind. Both paths are viable; neither is superior to the other.”

Zhou Qiong said firmly, “I have made my decision.”

Lin Shengshen nodded and stood up. “Very well. Take care.”

She didn’t know what else to say. In her previous life, Zhou Qiong had been disfigured and naturally couldn’t enter the Xie residence. As for how the Zhou family had dealt with her afterward, Lin Shengshen didn’t know—perhaps the outcome would be the same as today, marrying her off to a poor scholar’s family.

Suddenly, a sense of melancholy rose within her. Fate always twisted and turned, pulling crooked lines back into place. In this lifetime, could she truly break free?

But these tangled thoughts lasted only a moment before Lin Shengshen brightened again—

After all, everything was getting better, wasn’t it?

Zhou Qiong wasn’t disfigured, and Baoxiang Tower remained intact.

“Shengshen?”

Lin Shengshen abruptly looked up to see a young man in pale cloud-colored robes standing just two steps away. His features were handsome, and his eyes shone as brightly as the morning sun.

“Xu Wei?”

Though it had been a long time since she’d seen him, Lin Shengshen recognized him instantly. He had grown much taller, and his face had become more defined than before.

Now she had to look up to meet his gaze.

“Shengshen, you… have you been well lately?” Xu Wei stepped closer.

“Don’t be so informal. I’m two years older than you—call me ‘Sister’.” Lin Shengshen smiled warmly.

When they first met, Xu Wei was only thirteen.

At that time, Lin Shengshen had just arrived in the capital and was unfamiliar with everything. During a spring banquet, she got lost and happened to encounter Xu Wei, who had accidentally fallen into the water.

She passed him branches, tore the hem of her skirt to make a rope, and after much effort, managed to pull him back to shore.

From then on, Xu Wei had followed her around like a little puppy, constantly calling her “Sister, Sister.”

He even boldly declared that he would marry no one but Lin Shengshen.

Knowing it was just a young man’s impulsive desire to repay her for saving his life, Lin Shengshen only smiled and never took it seriously, treating him like a younger brother.

She had always been kind to those younger than her, whether it was Xie Zhenhuan or Xu Wei.

But later, she became completely absorbed in Xie Zhizhou and had no time to spare for these friends. Gradually, they grew distant. Eventually, Xu Wei stopped calling her “Sister” altogether, addressing her only as “Shengshen” when they met, with noticeable formality.

Xu Wei bent slightly to meet Lin Shengshen’s eye level. “Sister, it’s only been a few months, but you’ve lost weight.”

Lin Shengshen poked his forehead and pushed him back a step. “You’re grown up now—stand straight when you speak.”

“I heard you’ve been in Yingzhou investigating the flood situation. Did you learn anything?”

Xu Wei chuckled. “Learn anything?” He pretended to think seriously. “I learned… what it’s like to be assassinated three times?”

“Assassinated?” Lin Shengshen’s eyes widened. “Who would want to kill you?”

She circled Xu Wei, examining him closely.

Xu Wei said, “All my limbs are still attached, don’t worry.”

“As for who wants me dead…” Xu Wei smiled lightly. “Sister, I’ll visit your father at the Lin residence another day.”

“Good, good. It’s just a relief you’re back safely. My father often mentions you—you were such a good student back then, but who would have thought you’d end up studying water management? With all this running around, how could he not worry?”

Suddenly, a maid came running from the other side of the garden, shouting: “There’s an assassin! Someone’s dead! Quick, come to the main hall!”

—

Xie Zhizhou stood beside the corpse, his expression grave.

The victim was an Incense Maiden Official from the Wu residence, her throat slit clean through.

Today was the Wu family’s celebratory banquet, crowded with guests. To kill someone silently with a single fatal slash in a concealed spot within the main hall showed both the killer’s madness and arrogance.

Zhen Huan mentioned that Lin Shengshen had been called away by a maid, and Yuan Qing, who had been sent out earlier, returned empty-handed after searching everywhere.

If assassins were lurking in Lord Wu’s residence, a woman alone could easily become their next target!

Xie Zhizhou scanned the surroundings once more but still saw no sign of Lin Shengshen. The crowd was now gathered in a chaotic mess, and the body still awaited the coroner’s examination.

As the Young Secretary of the Court of Judicial Review, he had to maintain order here.

But Lin Shengshen had yet to be found.

Xie Zhizhou pulled Yuan Qing aside. “Keep watch here. I’ll go look for her.”

Before Xie Zhizhou could take a step, Wen Lingzhou rushed over. The imposing general wore an anxious expression. “Where is Shengshen?!”

Xie Zhizhou’s face darkened, and he ignored the question, turning to leave.

Just then, a figure in a dark jade-green dress, a golden hairpin gleaming in her hair, dashed out from not far away.

It was Lin Shengshen.

Close behind her, a young man followed, staying protectively by Lin Shengshen’s side, his concern no less intense than that of Xie Zhizhou or Wen Lingzhou.

Xie Zhizhou recognized him—it was Xu Wei, the one who had declared years ago that he would marry no one but Lin Shengshen in this lifetime—

The audacious Xu Wei.

Clearly, Wen Lingzhou also noticed the two emerging one after the other. He took a step forward but then halted, his expression inscrutable.

As he moved and stopped, the jade pendants at his waist chimed softly.

Almost involuntarily, Xie Zhizhou’s gaze drifted downward—

A finely carved, pure white Heart Lock Pendant, adorned with a love knot and tassels.

It was a perfect match for the one hidden in the inner compartment of Lin Shengshen’s dressing case.