Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 278

~ A SLAPPED IN THE FACE ~ 

The Eldest Madam’s smile is somewhat stiff, and she can naturally hear the implied sarcasm in Mu Yunyao’s words. “You just came to Capital, so there must be a lot of inadaptability. After a long time, you will gradually become familiar with it.”

“Yes, I would also like to thank Eldest Aunt for her teaching.”

The Eldest Madam looked at Mu Yunyao’s expression. She always felt that the smile on her face was brilliant, but there was no warmth, which made people looked uncomfortable for no reason: “Where is this? We are all a family, supporting each other is it should be.”

The Old Madam knows that Mu Yunyao is not happy in her heart. She is not willing to continue to listen to the implied confrontation between their words: “The banquet thing will be handed over to the Eldest Madam. Su Qing and Yao’er, if you have the guests who want to invite, you can also come over and go back to make good preparations for it...”

Before she finished her word, she heard a report from her servant: “Responding to the Old Madam, report to Master. At the entrance, Lord Meng, the Minister of the Tai Chang Temple, has come with Miss Meng to see Miss Biao.”

Su Wenyuan was taken aback when he heard the words: “Come to see Yunyao?”

The Eldest Madam’s heart suddenly sinks. Her brother brought Yanran to see Mu Yunyao? And she came in such a hurry, is there anything else she doesn’t know?

Mu Yunyao has a light smile on her face, quietly stands on one side. She is not surprised by this news. The Meng family can have today’s glory, not because it falls from the sky. Although the Meng Master is old, he is very sharp. She is afraid that when she comes out of the Palace, the Meng family received the news. That’s why Meng Yanran’s father is in such a hurry to bring Meng Yanran to see her.

Su Wenyuan glanced at Mu Yunyao and said to his servant: “Go and invite Lord Meng and Miss Meng in.” People have come here. No matter what the purpose, they must not be turned away.

The Second Madam wanted to leave. But after hearing the news, she suddenly stopped and watched with great interest. The Second Madam still didn’t understand before. But now, she knows that Eldest Madam had made a mistake by looking at her face. And this somersault is not small, don’t you see that her face is entirely black?

Meng Yu walked in with Meng Yanran and saw so many people in the yard. His face became extremely ugly for a moment, but he reluctantly put on a smile, then met with Su Wenyuan and the others.

Meng Yu is the older brother of the Eldest Madam. According to the seniority, Su Wenyuan should call him an elder brother: “Elder brother, how come you here now?”

Meng Yu looked back at Meng Yanran, who was pale and white. He sighed: “It’s all the good things you do. Why don’t you apologize to Ms. Mu?”

Meng Yanran raised her head and looked straight at Mu Yunyao. The hatred of her eyes rolled over, just like being able to condense into substance. If her eyes could kill at this time, she couldn’t wait to tear Mu Yunyao into pieces!

Seeing that MengYanran did not say anything, Meng Yu reprimanded her once again: “What are you doing in a daze? Didn’t you hear your father’s word?”

Meng Yanran walked to Mu Yunyao step by step, and her voice as cold as it could freeze: “Cousin Yunyao, what happened that day was my fault, please forgive me.”

With a faint smile on her lips, Mu Yunyao looked at her plainly: “What is Miss Meng talking about it? How can I not understand?”

Meng Yanran wanted to bite her silver teeth, but Meng Yu was watching behind her, but she couldn’t attack her: “On that day in Luyi Pavillion, I shouldn’t frame you for knocking over the teacup to harm me. I also blame myself for being in a bad mood and scatter the gas on Cousin Yunyao. After I went home, I regretted it. If I think about it carefully, it’s really too much, and I ask cousin Yunyao for forgiveness.”

These words are all smashed at home. Every time she says a word, she feels like a steel needle has passed through her throat, and leaving a series of scars. She was so angry that she wanted to vomit and bleed. Although it was said that she deliberately found the fault that day, in the end, Mu Yunyao just suffered a slap and two planks. However, her legs and feet have been painful for a night. Seriously, she was the one who suffered, so why is it today her father wants her to apologize to this bitch?

Mu Yunyao still looks at Meng Yanran calmly, seems to be waiting for her next move.

Meng Yu blinked his eyes slightly and carefully examined Mu Yunyao. His heart crossed the dissatisfaction: A news came out in the Palace today, and his father directly called him to reprimand him. Then he knew that his daughter was in trouble, but it was just a small matter to him. Unexpectedly, his father was furious and asked him to take Meng Yanran with him to apologize. He said that they would never go back without asking for Mu Yunyao’s forgiveness.

He thought that if Meng Yanran had come to make her admit that she had made a mistake, Mu Yunyao would gladly accept the matter. Who would have thought that she would not have given the steps down?

Meng Yu was angry in his heart, but he did not dare to disobey his father’s command: “Yanran!”

Meng Yanran bit her lip, and her mouth was full of blood: “Cousin Yunyao, I know that what I did on that day was too much. I came here today to kneel down and pour tea to admit my mistake!!” The words were almost squeezed out of her teeth.

With that, Meng Yanran directly wants to kneel down. She thought that Mu Yunyao would come forward to hold her up, but she did not expect that the other party still had that smile, as if waiting for her to kneel down. No, she can only bite her gums down and get down on her knees. The knee touches the ground, and she only feels the hate in her chest is almost overflowing.

Mu Yunyao finally got the action, only to see her slowly step forward, standing in front of Meng Yanran. Just when everyone thought she would bend over and lift the people up, she raised her arms directly and slapped Meng Yanran in the face!

“Snapped!”

The loud slaps of the palms seemed to bring echoes, which makes the entire front yard silent. The Eldest Madam only feels a buzz in her head and then trembles with anger. That slap not only hit Meng Yanran, but it also hit her face!

The burning pain on her face came. Meng Yanran straightened up, raised her eyes, and stared at Mu Yunyao. Her spiteful eyes were full of harshness, this bitch..., she actually beat herself!

Mu Yunyao sorted out the sleeves and returned to the original standing position: “I said in front of the Emperor that Miss Meng slapped me that day, and I’ll fight back directly. In this way, we are clear the grievances, and we will still be cousins in the future.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 277

~ THE EMPEROR’S REWARD ~ 

Xu Li turned to look at him. “Didn’t you hear what Miss Mu said? As long as the Emperor nods his head, she’ll be willing to beat someone, not to mention just one of the young ladies of the Meng family, even Grand Preceptor Meng himself, won’t she be able to fight?”

He really didn’t understand what was going on in the minds of the officials. Wasn’t their status and wealth just between a single sentence from the Emperor? Some people jump up and down to fight and scheming against each other. But they think that the Emperor can’t see it, and they don’t look at how our Emperor managed to get to the throne all the way.

When Li De heard this, he couldn’t help but inwardly suck in a breath of cold air. His tone carried a hint of sadness. “I wonder how the Imperial Concubine De in the Palace will cry when she heard this news?”

This time, it was clear that the Emperor wanted to disgrace the Meng family’s face, which was the Imperial Concubine De’s family, who had always been the pettiest personality.

“Cry? It should be a laugh.” In the end, she didn’t really anger the Emperor. He just happened to let Miss Mu meet her and gave the Meng family a warning. If she still didn’t understand, I’m afraid there won’t be such a good thing next time.

Li De chuckled, and the strength in his grip on Xu Li’s shoulder became even more gentle. “Master, Imperial Concubine De had just sent someone to deliver the soup. She knew that the Emperor was seeing Miss Mu and left the things behind.”

Xu Li raised his eyelids, “The gods fighting and the kids will suffer. This matter isn’t something that we can get involved in it. Don’t talk too much and do more. The most important thing is to serve the Emperor well.”

Li De hurriedly nodded. “Yes, Master.”

Mu Yunyao returned to the Su residence. As soon as she entered the inner courtyard, she called over by Old Madam Sun.

“Greetings, Grandmother.” Mu Yunyao’s body was already injured. After a series of torments inside and outside the Palace, her face now turned pale. But it seemed that Old Madam Sun didn’t see it and instead called her up with a smile on her face.

“There’s no need to be so courteous. Quickly, sit down. Did the meeting with the Emperor go well?”

Mu Yunyao’s face filled with joy. “The Emperor is the ruler of a nation, but he treats others kindly. He doesn’t make things difficult for a mere commoner like me.”

Wide and peaceful? Old Madam Sun couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow in her heart. It was only recently that the Emperor started to dislike killing. The current Emperor of the Dali Dynasty was never a gentle person.

“That’s good. I was worried that you’d enter the Palace for the first time and didn’t know how to answer the Emperor’s words.”

Mu Yunyao was slightly suspicious, “The Emperor is the true Son of Heaven. His eyes are like torches that can detect the slightest trace of danger. I naturally have something to say in front of him and don’t dare to hide it from him in the slightest. After all, deceiving the Emperor is a great crime, and it might even implicate my family!”

The Old Madam’s brows furrowed, and her expression turned cold. She was about to say something when Wen Mama walked in quickly. She immediately became displeased. “In a hurry, what happened?”

Wen Mama glanced at Mu Yunyao and respectfully bowed her head. “The Palace internal servant has come. They said that the Emperor has something to give to Miss Biao.”

The Old Madam’s hand that held the Buddhist beads tightened as she raised her head to look at Mu Yunyao. The smile on her face was slightly stiff. “Looks like Yao’er is indeed very pleasing to the Emperor.”

Mu Yunyao slightly lowered her head as if she was very embarrassed. She knew in her heart that the Old Madam wanted to investigate why the Emperor gave her such a gift. But in the end, she didn’t say anything.

The Old Madam was infuriated, but she could not show it on her face. On the contrary, she wore a joyful expression. “Quickly set up an incense stick and inform the people in residence to kneel and welcome the Emperor’s bestowal.”

In the East Courtyard, the Eldest Madam heard from Qi Mama that Mu Yunyao had left the Palace with reddened eyes. She couldn’t help but smile. “Does she really think that if she makes a little reputation in Jingling City, she can make people look at her? It’s just a joke. Do you really think she has the ability to do so?”

Su Yuyi sat at the side with a carefree look and her eyes glinting with pleasure.

However, the smiles on their faces had not dissipated when the servants reported that the Emperor had rewarded them.

The Eldest Madam froze on the spot, her fingers tightly pinching the handle of the chair. After a while, she stiffly released it. “Did they say why the reward is given to us?”

“There’s no news.”

The smile on Su Yuyi’s face also disappeared. She stepped forward to support the Eldest Madam’s arm, “Mother, could it be that Mu Yunyao really can make the Emperor look at her?”

The Eldest Madam slowly straightened her sleeves, and after a while, she wore a smiling face again, “Let’s also go and congratulate your cousin Yunyao.”

“Mother?” Su Yuyi felt unresigned in her heart. She was just a country girl with a bit of a reputation. How could she receive a reward from the Emperor?

The Eldest Madam looked at Su Yuyi with a warning gaze, “We should be happy when your cousin receives the reward, so we have to laugh happily. Do you understand?”

Su Yuyi pursed her lips and reluctantly nodded. “I understand, Mother.”

Very quickly, the incense stick was set up. Su Qing took a step to the incense stick and stood there. When he saw Mu Yunyao walking over with the Old Madam, she couldn’t help but slightly breathe a sigh of relief.

Mu Yunyao walked directly to Su Qing’s side. Seeing her worried eyes, she couldn’t help but comfort her with a smile. “Mother, I’m fine.”

Seeing that she was in good spirits, Su Qing’s heart sank a little. “Good, good …”

“Emperor’s edict. The Emperor decreed that Mu Yunyao, the Mu family’s daughter, has a pure heart and a gentle heart. She especially rewards a pair of jade ruyi, bestowing ten brocades …”

The rewards were limited, so the imperial edict wasn’t too long. But for the first wife, it felt like a day was like a year. She pure and kind-hearted, also her nature was gentle and beautiful. When such praise fell upon a country girl, no matter how one looked at it, it made them feel out of place. How can she make the Emperor look up to her?

After the imperial edict had been read out, the Eunuch who gave the decree indicated for Mu Yunyao to come forward with a smile. “Miss Mu, please receive the edict.”

Mu Yunyao knelt down and clasped the imperial edict above her head. “This humble daughter, Mu Yunyao, thanks Your Majesty for his grace.”

The Eunuch, who announced the decree, looked to the side with a smile at Su Wenyuan, “Lord Su, our order was to announced the decree today, so it is not appropriate to pay our respects to you. Please forgive us.”

“Eunuch is too courteous. Men, you escorted Eunuch out.”

After the official left, Su Wenyuan first went up to pay his respects to the Old Madam, then looked towards Mu Yunyao, who was holding the imperial edict. “The affairs of the court have been busy these past few days, and I didn’t have the time to see my niece, Yunyao. It’s my fault as an uncle, but today you have received the Emperor’s reward, so we should have a few banquets in residence. A few tables of banquets will be filled with noise and excitement and should be used to welcome the return of you and your mother back to our family.”

The Eldest Madam stepped forward and said, “Earlier, I wanted to hold a banquet for Sister Su Qing and Yunyao, but considering how tired they must be from such a long journey, so I didn’t worry about it. But, I didn’t expect that another big event to happen today, so this banquet must be even more lively. I have drawn up some lists of invited guests. After discussing with Sister Su Qing, I wrote a post to send them out.“

Su Wenyuan nodded his head, “You have always been thorough in your work, so this matter is definitely good. What you need to do only look at the arrangements. Yunyao, what’s so uncomfortable about coming to the Su family’s residence?”

Mu Yunyao had a smile on her face as she passed the imperial edict to Jin Lan, who stood to the side. She replied in a clear voice, “The Capital is different after all. Even though I’ve only been here for three days, I’ve gained quite a bit of knowledge.”

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Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 276

~ THEN FIGHT BACK ~ 

The Emperor drank two sips of tea before placing the teacup at the side, “You donated one hundred thousand taels of silver in Jingling City. The Jingling salt transport envoy, Li Munian, report the matter in writing to me. I heard that you had contributed greatly to our efforts. I also heard that you have taken out all the silver earned by Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo in the recent year?”

Mu Yunyao shook her head slightly and answered truthfully, “I didn’t take all of them, but I left fifty thousand silver taels behind. Thirty thousand silver taels out of that used for turnover, and fourteen thousand used to buy my grandmother and the others’ greeting gift. The rest handed over to my mother for later expenses.”

“What you said is quite detailed. No matter what, being grateful is a good thing. I should be giving you a reward. In addition, the tea leaves today are not bad. When the time comes, I’ll get the person who beat you up from the Meng family so you can fight back.”

Mu Yunyao was stunned and couldn’t move for a long time. Just as Xu Li couldn’t help but want to remind her, she suddenly stood up and kneeled on the ground with a ‘pu tong’ sound, bowing to the Emperor with exceptional respect. Her body filled with stubbornness, just like a seedling standing under the towering giant tree. Even if her head had to cover with an enormous cover, she still had to stubbornly struggle to get a sliver of an opportunity to catch her breath.

After Mu Yunyao made her salutations, she knelt on the ground, and her chest violently heaved for a moment. Then, she solemnly said, “This humble one thanks to the Emperor for presiding over justice!” If one were to listen carefully, one would notice the faint sound of her crying voice, as if she was saying how difficult it was to come to this justice.

“Yes, you may leave.”

“This humble daughter will take her to leave now.” Mu Yunyao lowered her head and bowed as she left the great hall. As she retreated, she couldn’t stop her tears from rolling down. This kind of taboo matter made her not dare to raise her head, but it was unknown if it was because she was too agitated that she couldn’t help sobbing twice. In the quiet hall, the voice was exceptionally striking.

When she left, the Emperor couldn’t help but take another sip of the tea. “There’s really nothing to say about the way tea brewed.”

Xu Li smiled at the side. Upon hearing these words, he couldn’t help but say, “Miss Mu’s skills in brewing tea have indeed improved.”

The Emperor put down the teacup and read the imperial edict. After writing a few times with a red brush, he could not help but chuckle. “She’s quite a lively girl.”

Xu Li couldn’t stop his heart from thumping. There weren’t many people who could receive such praise from the Emperor. “To be praised by the Emperor, that Miss Mu really does have such deep blessings.”

Does getting praised by him meant that her luck was great?

The Emperor couldn’t help but recall what Mu Yunyao had said before, saying that he could affect a person’s entire life with a single glance. Although he had understood this principle before, he hadn’t paid particular attention to it. Now, combined with Xu Li’s emo statements, he can’t help thinking of the words of his Imperial Older Sister, Princess Yi De:

When the Emperor wielded the Emperor’s sword, he could slaughter all living things and burn their spirits. He could also intimidate ghosts, protect the peace of society and protect the country from danger!

“Xu Li. The Grand Princess will be returning to the Palace before the Mid-Autumn Festival. Is the Palace ready?”

Xu Li quickly replied respectfully, “Reporting to the Emperor, the Grand Princess’s Yuhua Palace has always been cleaned and tidied up by people every day. Now that I’ve heard that the Grand Princess has returned to the Palace, I’ve specially repainted the pepper wall. The curtains and carpets in the hall have all been replaced with new ones. All of them are modest and elegant styles that the Grand Princess likes. The flowers, plants, trees, mountains, rivers, landscape, and pavilions in the Palace have been reorganized and refurbished.”

The Emperor listened attentively and asked a few more questions. After receiving a satisfactory answer, he added on with a smile, “I wonder if the Grand Princess is willing to stay here for a longer this time.”

“Although the Grand Princess doesn’t stay in the Palace often, she still has her heart set on the Emperor.”

The Emperor shook his head, “In the end, some things are different. I am now the noble Son of Heaven, but my Imperial Older Sister is worried about getting infected by my power. She has lived in the Palace for many years, but she is reluctant to return to the Palace. If it weren’t for me sending a few letters this time, she wouldn’t be willing to come back.”

Xu Li didn’t dare to reply. Grand Princess Yi De held a particular position in the Emperor’s heart. A single wrong word from him might attract the Emperor’s displeasure.

The Emperor paused for a moment, as if he had thought of something, and continued, “... I wasn’t favored when I was a prince, and I even got targeted by a few Imperial Brothers due to my inferior birth. At that time, as long as Imperial Older Sister found out, she will definitely help me fight back. Moreover, Imperial Older Sister was ruthless. She chose places that were painful and hard to leave marks. Every single time, it would cause the people who bully me to howl and cry incessantly. After that, the Imperial Father’s health was not good at all, and disputes gradually arose. Life became more difficult, and then …”

Xu Li lowered his head and couldn’t help but break out in a cold sweat. The things that the Emperor had said were the secrets of the Imperial Family. As an attendant, he couldn’t allow listening to it.

Fortunately, the Emperor seemed to have noticed something wrong, and he swallowed the following words directly. He didn’t know why, when he saw Mu Yunyao’s expression while she left in the end, it actually made him think back to those remarkably arduous days. The days when he and his Imperial Older Sister had used their own strength to fight against the flood and the sky, surrounded by enemies. The crowd surrounded him like wolves, standing alone and trembling in fear......

“Xu Li. The Grand Princess Residence needs to take good care of this as well.” This time, Imperial Older Sister returned to the Palace seemed to have received some advice from the esteemed monk, wanting to find a girl to write it down in the name of her lost daughter and saying that she will not be able to stay in Capital longer.

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

On the other side, Mu Yunyao followed the young eunuch who led the way out of the Palace. Jin Lan and Jin Qiao hurriedly came over, and the nervousness in their eyes eased up. “Miss.”

Mu Yunyao smiled at them, her eyes still slightly red. Qi Mama, who stood by the side, silently took in her expression and prepared to return to report it to the Eldest Madam.

A young eunuch who was leading the way bowed to Mu Yunyao. “Miss Mu, you have already left the Palace. This servant will return to report to Eunuch Li.”

Mu Yunyao indicated for Jin Lan to send over the black purse, smiled, and nodded as she said her thanks, “Thank you for guiding me twice, Eunuch.”

The young eunuch was surprised to receive the money, and his actions were unnatural as he placed it in his sleeves, “Take care, Miss Mu.”

Mu Yunyao got on the carriage and headed towards the Su residence.

The young eunuch who led the way returned to the Palace and found an opportunity to meet Li De after a while. “Eunuch Li, this was given to me by Miss Mu. How could I use it in the Palace? I wanted to use it to honor you.” They are the lowly servants, so they could not leave the Palace, nor did they leave any money behind to use.

Li De took the purse and opened it. Inside was a fifty-tael banknote, and after he finished looking at it, he threw it back into the young eunuch’s arms, “Since Miss Mu gave it to you, then you should keep it. Now you can’t spend it, but you’ll naturally have the chance to leave the Palace in the future.”

“Thank you, Eunuch Li.”

“En, since you have received my benefits, the next time you lead the way, be a little more respectful.”

“Yes, thank you for your advice, Eunuch Li.” Next time? Could it be that Miss Mu will often enter the Palace? When Li De returned to his room, he saw his master Xu Li resting by the side. He hurriedly stepped forward with a face full of smiles as he held Xu Li’s shoulder. “Master, do you think that Miss Mu Mu will really dare to fight back the young lady of the Meng Family?”

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Thank you

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Today is the last day of February. I sincerely thank all who read the novels Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife and Incurable. 

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Incurable Chapter 20 Part 1

The pulse at Mu Wan’s wrist was pressed beneath a cool, dry palm. Pulse to the heart. Heartbeat to hand. It was as if Liu Qianxiu had taken hold of her heart itself.

When he held her, her heart stayed still.
When he let go, her heart moved.

This heart was already his.

Mu Wan watched him quietly, thinking about what she had just said. Outside the window came a sharp, rapid patter—rain again.

And her heart grew noisy with it.

“I’m not afraid,” Mu Wan said. “You’re a doctor. You can heal my injuries.”

Liu Qianxiu lifted his eyes to her once. Her beautiful eyes were steady, certain. His lashes stirred. He released her wrist, turned the faucet on, and let the rush of water cover the rain’s sound.

Rain made the air damp. Under the warm kitchen light, everything turned a little misty, a little soft.

Mu Wan didn’t keep washing. She leaned against the sink, her presence strong but not intrusive, as if she’d always belonged in the edges of his life.

Liu Qianxiu washed the remaining dishes at an unhurried pace.

When he shut off the water, the kitchen fell quiet again—only the rain outside was growing heavier.

Mu Wan’s gaze drifted to the window. “The rain’s getting worse. Can I wait until it stops before I go?”

Liu Qianxiu wiped his hands and answered simply, “Mm.” Then they left the kitchen together.

Liu Qianxiu’s life ran on strict rails. After dinner and cleanup, he would go to the living room, read, or sit in stillness. He opened a book.

Mu Wan also picked one up.

This time it was Zhou Yi.

Three minutes later, Mu Wan’s eyes left the page.

This one was even more unbearable than the Dao De Jing.

She looked up at Liu Qianxiu. The desk lamp made his silhouette look even calmer. His lashes cast a faint shadow along his lower lid, his dark eyes focused and absorbed.

Mu Wan didn’t disturb him. She lowered her eyes to the book again.

Two seconds later, she looked up again.

First at Liu Qianxiu. Then there was rain outside.

Then, the cat padded toward her.

This Zhou Yi was much more interesting than the other one.

Mu Wan’s eyes widened slightly. She tilted her head. Under the table, she curled her fingers twice in a small beckon.

Come here.

She mouthed the words silently to Zhou Yi.

Zhou Yi seemed to understand. His pale-gold eyes narrowed; the black pupils shrank as he approached, tightening into sleek vertical slits. When he reached her, Mu Wan lifted a hand to pet him—

Zhou Yi rose on his toes and jumped lightly into her cross-legged lap, then settled down.

“Ah.” Mu Wan let out a soft, surprised sound at the sudden warmth and fur.

She immediately looked toward Liu Qianxiu.

She’d disturbed him. He had already lifted his eyes.

Mu Wan leaned slightly to the side and pointed at Zhou Yi, sprawled on her lap, eyes sparkling with delight.

“Liu Qianxiu. He likes me.”

Zhou Yi wasn’t affectionate by nature. Even with Liu Qianxiu, he only climbed onto him when he felt like it. Liu Qianxiu set his book down, looked at Zhou Yi on Mu Wan’s lap, and said, “Mm.”

Her skin was very pale. Zhou Yi was very black-and-white, with sharp contrasts that somehow harmonized.

From letting her touch him before dinner to hopping into her lap now—Mu Wan’s happiness came in little waves, one after another.

Zhou Yi was adapting to her.

And if Zhou Yi could, then Liu Qianxiu would too.

Mu Wan felt like her whole chest had bloomed.

She smiled and stroked Zhou Yi. Liu Qianxiu watched the cat as well. When she saw he wasn’t reading anymore, she asked, “You don’t work tomorrow, right? Can I come by in the afternoon?”

She realized she needed a strong reason, so she brought out the kittens immediately.

“I haven’t seen Da Tou and the others in ages. I want to spend more time with them.”

Liu Qianxiu’s gaze moved from Zhou Yi to her face. She sat up straight, slim arms, narrow shoulders, collarbones carved in the lamp’s shadow. Under the light, she looked like something dangerous and beautiful—an intruder who didn’t feel like an intruder at all.

“I’m meeting a friend to play basketball tomorrow afternoon,” Liu Qianxiu said.

It wasn’t a direct refusal, but it was close enough. The light in Mu Wan’s eyes dimmed. She lowered her head and petted Zhou Yi once, voice softening.

“Okay…”

“Text me before you come,” Liu Qianxiu added. “I’m not sure when we’ll finish.”

Mu Wan looked up again.

That single sentence lit her right back up. The shine returned to her eyes, brighter than before. Her lips curved, and her voice turned sweet with the rain.

“Liu Qianxiu—so you play basketball?”

Only now was she asking.

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Incurable Chapter 19 Part 3

Sunday afternoon, before Liu Qianxiu left for Wen City, he’d brought the cats to Huai Jing’s home. Five days apart, the three kittens had grown noticeably bigger. Even before Xu Xingkong opened the door, their tiny baby meows could already be heard.

At the sound of the door, Zhou Yi lifted his head too. Seeing Liu Qianxiu, the black cat hopped down from the climbing frame and landed lightly at his feet, meowing once.

Liu Qianxiu bent and stroked Zhou Yi. Beside him, Xu Xingkong gathered the kittens’ supplies and said, “Stay for dinner. Eat before you go. Huai Jing was joking.”

Liu Qianxiu was about to refuse after settling Zhou Yi into the carrier when a woman’s voice rang outside.

“Liu Qianxiu!”

Huai Jing and Xu Xingkong both looked toward the door. Liu Qianxiu placed the three kittens into another carrier, lifted it, and said, “No need.”

Mu Wan had just woken up and realised Liu Qianxiu was gone from the car. The car was parked in front of a standalone villa. She called him, only to find his phone was still in the car. Panic spiked. She jumped out and shouted toward the villa.

A moment later, Liu Qianxiu came out, a cat carrier in his hand. He glanced at her, expression calm.

The seaside sun was bright. The wind was soft. Mu Wan looked at his face, and the chaos in her chest settled instantly, like dust falling.

But Liu Qianxiu wasn’t alone.

Behind him stood a woman—quiet and gentle, someone who would never shout outside someone else’s front door.

Mu Wan’s face warmed with delayed embarrassment.

Xu Xingkong walked Liu Qianxiu to the car and politely looked Mu Wan over. Mu Wan’s looks struck her. Black hair, dark eyes, a pale, palm-sized face, lips red like a dab of honey. On her right cheek was a small sleep-mark blush, giving her glamour a soft, slightly cute edge.

“Why didn’t you wake me?” Mu Wan asked Liu Qianxiu first, in a low voice. Then she turned and smiled at Xu Xingkong. “Hello, I’m Mu Wan.”

“Hello. I’m Xu Xingkong.” After introducing herself, Xu Xingkong explained, “My husband’s on a call, so he didn’t come out.”

“Oh.” Mu Wan understood what she meant. She glanced at Liu Qianxiu and said, “He told me. Thank you for helping us take care of the cats.”

“Ah.” Xu Xingkong seemed to remember something. She turned to Liu Qianxiu. “There’s a small bag you forgot. Wait a moment.”

She hurried back inside. When she returned, she carried a small backpack. She also handed Mu Wan a washed plum, cool and red.

“I just bought them. It’s sweet,” Xu Xingkong said with a smile.

The car pulled away and soon merged onto the coastal road. It was almost six. Clouds covered the sky so thickly that even the sunlight looked veiled.

Mu Wan sat in the passenger seat holding the plum Xu Xingkong had given her. The fruit was icy, skin glossy and red, sweet-looking.

Mu Wan thought again of Xu Xingkong. The woman felt comfortable in a way that was hard to name—like a breeze brushing past, carrying a faint lavender scent.

Mu Wan glanced at Liu Qianxiu and said, “Your friends are really good.”

She hadn’t met Huai Jing properly, but just from Xu Xingkong, she could tell. Xu Xingkong was gentle. The way her eyes smiled when she mentioned her husband was impossible to hide. The man who could make a woman like that happy—and also be Liu Qianxiu’s friend—had to be a good person.

“Mm.” Liu Qianxiu kept his eyes on the road.

Mu Wan looked at him and added, “I want them to be my friends too.”

Liu Qianxiu turned his head.

Mu Wan tilted her head, the red plum hovering near her lips. When she saw his gaze shift to her, she paused and smiled. “Is that not allowed?”

His gaze moved from her eyes to her mouth. He looked at the plum in her hand and said, “Don’t eat that on an empty stomach.”

Her teeth tapped the fruit lightly, splitting the thin skin. A trace of sweetness leaked onto her tongue, spreading through her body.

Mu Wan set the plum down and wrapped her fingers around it again, obedient as she answered:

“Oh. Okay.”

By the time they returned to Liu Qianxiu’s home, it was after seven.

Mu Wan carried the kitten carrier into the cat room and let the three little ones out. Liu Qianxiu went to the kitchen to prepare dinner.

In only a few days, the kittens could stand now—tiny bodies, short, thin legs, fluffy little lumps wobbling toward her hands.

Mu Wan stroked this one, then that one. The baby’s meows softened and warmed her heart.

After feeding and settling them, she headed for the kitchen. Before she left the cat room, a dark shape blocked her path.

Zhou Yi sat in the doorway, pale-gold eyes fixed on her.

Zhou Yi wasn’t clingy. She had never seen him cling to anyone. He was a black blur who liked hiding. Usually, he only strolled out after she and Liu Qianxiu finished eating, moving like a lazy emperor.

Now he was sitting there watching her, and Mu Wan couldn’t tell what he wanted.

She crouched, hesitated, then reached out her hand.

When her palm hovered over Zhou Yi’s head, he didn’t dodge.

She touched down gently.

Zhou Yi narrowed his eyes and nudged his fluffy head into her hand.

“Meow,” he said, long and soft.

Mu Wan’s gaze flickered.

He was cuddling her.

And that meant—

Zhou Yi had grown used to her presence. He was accepting her as part of this home.

A flower opened in Mu Wan’s chest.

She stood and hurried into the kitchen, bright with excitement.

“Liu Qianxiu! Zhou Yi just cuddled me!”

The kitchen lights were warm. Liu Qianxiu stood by the table. The dishes Mu Wan had chosen were already laid out. He looked up at her.

Outside, countless windows glowed in the city.

Liu Qianxiu’s lips curved faintly.

“Dinner’s ready.”

In that moment, Mu Wan wished the rest of her life could be like this.

After dinner, Liu Qianxiu rose to clear the table. Mu Wan lifted a hand.

“I’ll wash the dishes.”

Since she arrived, Liu Qianxiu had been cooking and cleaning. She’d done nothing but play with the cats. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to help. The first time she’d eaten here, she’d offered—but he’d refused.

He had his own rules. He didn’t like people disrupting them.

Mu Wan spoke quickly, afraid he’d refuse again. “I can’t just—”

“Okay,” Liu Qianxiu said.

Mu Wan blinked, surprised, then followed him at once as he stacked the bowls and placed them in the sink.

Liu Qianxiu’s living room looked full of antiques, but his kitchen was more modern, mostly in appliances. Even so, the bowls and plates he used still carried the quiet beauty of old things.

His food was light, so the dishes were easy to wash. Mu Wan didn’t wear gloves. She picked up a thin, translucent white porcelain bowl. Light, elegant, almost luminous.

She turned on the faucet and began washing carefully.

Before she started, she’d tied up her hair. The curls made a fluffy little halo. Her face, however, was smooth and pale as porcelain—small and perfect.

Outside, the night sky was heavy and starless. Inside, the warm light softened everything. Mu Wan stood at the sink in her long dress, lashes lowered, expression peaceful.

She didn’t wash dishes like a beginner, yet she washed like one—fingers braced inside the bowl, wiping the rim over and over, careful.

Water ran in a steady hush, like a mountain stream—quiet, soothing.

Liu Qianxiu thought of what Huai Jing had said.

Mu Wan felt him standing beside her and grew nervous. She glanced up, holding the small bowl, eyes shining.

“Are you afraid I’ll drop it? Is it an antique?”

Liu Qianxiu lifted his eyes, about to answer—

When a sharp crack snapped through the kitchen.

The bowl slipped from Mu Wan’s hands into the sink.

It shattered.

Northern Song Ru kiln white porcelain.

“Ah!” Mu Wan’s heart jumped. She stared at the shards and reached down reflexively—

Before she could touch anything, her wrist was caught.

Long fingers closed around her gently, without force.

Mu Wan looked up.

Liu Qianxiu pulled her hand out of the sink, reached over, and shut off the faucet. He grabbed paper towels and carefully dried her fingers.

With the water gone, the kitchen fell quiet, and his voice sounded even lower, clearer.

“It’s fine. Broken is broken. It’s not something valuable. Don’t cut your hand.”

The author has something to say: 

Liu Daochang: There are many bowls, but there is only one Mu Wan.

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 19 Part 3

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 275

~ I WANT TO FIGHT BACK ~ 

Mu Yunyao replied, “Your Majesty, she hit me, but my Eldest Aunt favored her and let her go without any punishment. I was unwilling in my heart, so I wanted to fight back.”

Hearing this, Xu Li felt his legs go soft and almost couldn’t stand up. This little ancestor thought that the Emperor was too good-natured. How dare she say anything? Moreover, who was that Miss Meng? The granddaughter of the Grand Preceptor of the Imperial Court and Qingning princess, also the niece of the Imperial Concubine De in the Palace. Is she that someone who can let you fight back?

As expected, the Emperor frowned, and his eyes narrowed involuntarily. If he were an ordinary person, he would have already been unhappy in his heart. But Mu Yunyao’s words just now were considerably interesting, and with the Imperial Older Sister’s godlike face, it made him more patient. “Do you know who she is?”

Mu Yunyao nodded. “I know. Before I came to the Palace, Eldest Aunt had already told me that the Meng family’s status was extraordinary and that Miss Meng was someone I absolutely cannot offend.”

“Since you know about this, why did you still dare to fight back?”

“Dare!” Mu Yunyao nodded without hesitation. “No matter who she is, she’ll be punished if she does something wrong. I once heard from the teacher in the book that if the Emperor did wrong, he would have to hand down a decree for his crimes. Even if the officials did wrong, they also would have to get rid of their Hua Ling and ask for justice for their wrongdoings. The common people have to go to court to be tried and punished for doing wrong. She intentionally framed and beat me up, so I could fight her back. This approach is the best way to deal with it.”

“Shouldn’t the best course of action be for me to punish her?”

Mu Yunyao shook her head. “Your majesty, your identity is precious, don’t mention personally ordering a person to be punished, as long as you reveal the slightest bit of dissatisfaction towards a person, that person’s entire life might be affected. Miss Meng is my Eldest Aunt’s niece. If she beats me, I’ll fight her back. Even if the matter is over, I’m not angry. If you had been the one to make the decision, Miss Meng would have been the one to ruin it. That’s not what I intended to do.”

The Emperor’s gaze slightly moved, and a trace of unfathomable emotion could be seen within it. “Then if I agree to your words, do you dare to come directly and beat someone up?”

“Why would I not dare? With your permission, Your Majesty, I am only following the imperial edict to beat someone up. I am not afraid of anything.” Mu Yunyao’s gaze was clear and bright. Even though her face was injured, her smile was still so sweet, causing others to feel extremely comfortable when they looked at her.

The Emperor, however, didn’t say anything. He only looked at her for a moment before saying, “I’ve heard that you’re the best at brewing tea. It’s rare for me to be in the mood today. Go brew one for a taste.”

Mu Yunyao stared blankly for a moment, then nodded, “Okay.”

Xu Li quickly ordered some servants to bring the tea set over.

Soon, an item was placed on the table.

Mu Yunyao brought down to wash her hands and leave the Emperor’s line of sight to prepare. She couldn’t help but sway a little as her back became wet and cold. It was unknown when she had been drenched in a cold sweat, and the wound on her waist was also faintly aching.

Mu Yunyao knew that today’s events were exceptionally high-risk. The slightest carelessness would leave an impression on the Emperor’s mind that she was playing tricks on him. There were even a few times when she could feel the Emperor’s measuring and scrutinizing gaze. Fortunately, she had already thought of this earlier and had made preparations. She repeatedly hinted that she complete trust and reverence towards the Emperor, practicing her expression and eyes in the mirror over and over again, trying hard not to leave a single flaw. It was just that the Emperor was the Emperor, and she couldn’t tell what role her words played.

Mu Yunyao faced the basin as she slowly cleaned her hands. Her actions were exceptionally solemn, as though she wanted to wash away the distracting thoughts and fear in her heart. She needed to calm down, and the closer she got to the end, the more she couldn’t panic.

After a while, she accepts the handkerchief from the attendant at the side and gently wipes it clean. “Eunuch, I’m ready.”

“Miss Mu, please.”

The tea set is made of white porcelain and painted with flowers. The teapot was entirely made of alum red, painted with tangled branches and lotus patterns. Both sides of its abdomen were shining, while one painted lotus flowers in a lotus pond, while the other carried two lines of poetry: Seen when flipping blank birds, the water scented.

There were very few patterns on the corresponding teacups. They only have red lines on the edge of the bottom and the mouth of the cup. The white porcelain cup was as thin as a cicada’s wing, and it is as light as nothing in the hand. It is almost transparent under the reflection of the candle fire in the main hall.

Although Mu Yunyao’s purpose in studying the tea ceremony wasn’t pure, she really likes it. After settling down in Jingling City for over a year, her initial interest in the tea ceremony had already dissipated. In addition, she studied a few books of tea scriptures, and her skills in brewing tea were even better. At this moment, she was full of joy when seeing the exquisite tea set. Her expression and actions could not help but show some of it.

The Emperor was initially deep in thought about today’s matters in the Imperial Court when his eyes unconsciously drooped and attracted by Mu Yunyao’s brewing tea skill. He had long since heard Xu Li praise this girl for her extraordinary tea skills. He had initially thought that it was somewhat exaggerated, but upon seeing her for the first time, he realized that she was really excellent.

The tension on her body had completely disappeared and was replaced by natural and smooth elegance. Her movements were neither slow nor heavy, and her behavior was relaxed. It was as if her every gesture was like a natural phenomenon. Occasionally, there would be the sound of flowing water, light and pleasing to the ear. In the blink of an eye, the room filled with fragrance.

The impetuousness in the Emperor’s heart gradually disappeared. There was a rare moment of peace in his mind, and he actually felt remarkably relaxed.

The sound of a cup pad and a teacup clinking together resounded in his ears. The Emperor looked over with rapt attention and noticed that Mu Yunyao had already folded her hands in front of her stomach as she looked over with her clear gaze.

“Your Majesty, the tea has been brewed.”

By the side, Xu Li stepped forward and carefully took the cup of tea. He then placed it beside the imperial examination table, his movements smooth and steady.

The tea that was being brewed this time was the Lotus Fragrance Dew that Mu Yunyao had sent over. Initially, the fragrance of this tea was exceptionally fragrant. But now, with Mu Yunyao’s hand, it seemed to have risen even further.

The white porcelain teacup was thin, and one could faintly see the traces of the tea leaves in the cup from the outside. The leaves seemed to be shaking, causing the Emperor to lift the lid and take a closer look.

A cloud of white mist suddenly rose up. Within the haze, one could see a white crane flying past the teacup. The fog swayed, and the white crane nodded. The Emperor didn’t even have time to be surprised, the mist dissipated, and the crane disappeared without a trace. Within the teacup, the tea leaves were swaying, and the roots stood straight like bamboo shoots that had just emerged from the ground, with vigor and vitality, which caused him to lift the teacup and look at it carefully. Unexpectedly, when the teacup shook, the tea leaves in the cup suddenly fell like a startled snowflake and gathers at the bottom of the cup, forming a lotus shape with both form and spirit.

After a while, the lotus flower slowly dispersed, leaving only the fresh and distant tea’s fragrance.

The lotus flower dissipated, and the tea was warm enough to be consumed as well. The Emperor took a sip and immediately felt as if the entire lotus flower was contained within his mouth as he slowly swallowed down a mouthful of fragrance. “Your skills in brewing tea are indeed extraordinary.”

Mu Yunyao revealed an expression of joy, and her eyes were full of smiles. She seemed to be extremely happy as she said, “Many thanks for Your Majesty’s praise.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 275

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 274

~ IT WAS A SPLENDID ACHIEVEMENT ~ 

Mu Yunyao shot another stern look before lowering her head, her voice carrying a little sense of fear. “Reporting to Your Majesty, Mama has taught me before. However, this humble daughter is sincerely curious about what the real Son of Heaven should look like, so I couldn’t resist taking a glance. Please forgive me, Your Majesty.”

“The real Son of Heaven? Then tell me, are you disappointed when you see me like this?” Although the Emperor felt that Mu Yunyao was bold, he wasn’t too angry in his heart. After all, her eyes were so clear and pure, without the slightest hint of achievement, which makes people feel relieved at a glance. Even he still felt that her final stern look towards him, as if she wasn’t looking at Him enough, and it was somewhat amusing.

Xu Li, who was standing at the side, was nervous. He had a good impression of Mu Yunyao. He had seen her speak and do things very well, so how come she appear in front of the Emperor and was so stunned? She even directly raised her head to looked up the Emperor’s appearance. Wasn’t she asking for trouble?

“Isn’t it true that the real Son of Heaven should grow up to be like the Emperor?” As Mu Yunyao spoke, she quietly looked at the Emperor. Unexpectedly, her gaze met the Emperor’s eyes, and she knelt down in shock for a while. “Your Majesty, please forgive me.”

The Emperor paused for a moment and then couldn’t help but laugh, “Stand up. Your reputation is spread far and wide in Jingling City. If I were to accuse you just because you took a few glances at me, wouldn’t I will be a foolish king if the word about it spread?”

Mu Yunyao stood up as if she felt that the Emperor’s attitude was warm, and the nervousness on her body had disappeared quite a bit. When she spoke, she wasn’t as cautious as before. “Your majesty, this humble daughter wishes to kowtow and thank you first.” After saying that, without waiting for the Emperor’s reply, she kneeled down once more, meticulously began to perform a kowtow ceremony.

The Emperor’s gaze landed on Mu Yunyao as he watched her movements with great interest.

After Mu Yunyao finished bowing, it was as if a load on her mind had been lifted. She looked a lot more relaxed, and her aura seemed to have become a little more lively.

“Why are you so polite and thoughtless?”

“Naturally, it was to thank Your Majesty for your rewards. You gave this humble daughter a lot of things before. You also gave the calligraphy of Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo as a reward, so this humble daughter has always wanted to thank you in her heart.”

“The reason why I am bestowing this upon you is that you have contributed greatly to imparting the embroidery technique to the people. It is only natural for I to do so.”

Mu Yunyao slightly widened her eyes, seeming to be very surprised, “How could it be? The Emperor’s things weren’t blown by the wind, so of course, I have to thank him for giving me so many things. Moreover, I volunteered to teach the embroidery needle technique back then, and the Emperor’s reward was my recognition. It’s a rare thing to get your recognition, so this humble daughter has always been deeply grateful.”

The Emperor was a little surprised, but Mu Yunyao’s expression was too sincere. The words that came out sounded pleasing to his ears and carried a hint of sincerity, making his displeased mood ease up a little, “If the officials thought like you, then they would have given me less trouble, and I can worry less.”

Mu Yunyao nodded in an exceptionally natural manner, “In order for the Emperor to raise all the people in the world, it is indeed made you worry so much.”

Raise all the people in the world?

“Girl, you’re quite straightforward. Raise your head.” He couldn’t help but be curious about Mu Yunyao’s appearance. Just now, when he hastily glanced at her, he noticed that her eyes were black and white, clear enough to see the bottom, making it unforgettable for anyone to see, but he didn’t have the time to look at her.

Speaking of which, the congratulatory gifts that Mu Yunyao had sent him several times were very much in line with his wishes. Moreover, she was still young, but the things she had done were not small. In particular, this time, she gave back to the people of Jingling City, and she had helped to raise two hundred thousand taels of silver from the people of Jingling City. If the following few years were to pass, the entire city would have to pay two hundred thousand taels of silver. If there were any natural disasters in the next few years, there would be no need for the Imperial Court to provide relief.

It was a splendid achievement.

“Then, Your Majesty, you have to be careful, don’t be scared by me.” Mu Yunyao first spoke a word of warning before raising her head.

“Don’t tell me you look so...” Hearing Mu Yunyao’s reminder, the Emperor felt it was laughable in his heart, and his tone couldn’t help but relaxed. Just as he was about to joke and ask if she looked horribly ugly, the words suddenly stopped at his mouth.

Xu Li, who was standing at the side, also peeked over. He couldn’t help but suck in a breath of cold air when he took a glace. It’s..., Is that Miss Mu’s face was ruined? What’s wrong? Why does it look blue and purple?

The great hall was quiet for a while, then Mu Yunyao slightly lowered her head in embarrassment, once again bowing to the Emperor: “This humble daughter is rash, please forgive me, Your Majesty.”

When her voice came to his ear, the Emperor suddenly regained his mind and looked at Mu Yunyao with a slightly different look. His absent-mindedness was not because Mu Yunyao’s face had a purplish palm mark on it. But, because her appearance was actually similar to his Imperial Older Sister when she was young, the Grand Princess Yi De.

It had always been said that the Heaven Family was heartless, but he did not believe these words. In these many years, the relationship between him and his Imperial Older Sister had always been deep. Moreover, the guilt in his heart had deepened as he grew older. At this time, when he saw Mu Yunyao, who looks a little like his Imperial Older Sister, he couldn’t help feeling more close. “You get up and talk. Xu Li, give her a seat.”

Xu Li quickly moved the stool over, and Mu Yunyao sat down properly and let out a sigh of relief.

“What happened to the wound on your face?”

“In order to respond to the Emperor, I was beaten up by the young lady of the Meng family, Meng Yanran.” Mu Yunyao bluntly replied.

“... Why did she hit you? Was it because you did something wrong?”

Mu Yunyao hurriedly shook her head, her tone calm and without fear. “I have only been in the Capital for two days, so I don’t have the time to do anything even if I wanted to. According to Miss Meng, it’s because I was born of lowly status. Moreover, I opened Ni Yunfang and Bu Xian Luo, so she thought that I did all the dirty work of the merchants, and she looked at me with displeasure, deliberately framing me, then finding excuses to punish me.”

Xu Li couldn’t help but take a deep breath. Was Miss Mu’s accusation a little too straightforward?

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 274

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 273

~ PRELUDE TO ENTERING THE PALACE TO COMPLAIN ~ 

Early morning in the next day, Mu Yunyao had already gotten up early and began to freshen up.

She had chosen the clothes yesterday. Although there filial piety, she could not enter the Palace wearing them too lightly to avoid attracting the taboo, so she chooses a pale peach pink dress with a silver border. The hairpin she picked was a hollow orchid hairpin with some small flower pearls on the top. The earrings are also small orchid shaped, which are expressly fresh and pleasant to match the clothes.

After changing her clothes and matching her jewelry, Mu Yunyao sat down in front of the mirror and used the makeup to smear on her cheeks.

Su Qing stood behind Mu Yunyao. Through the mirror, she could see that her uninjured cheek was as white as a petal and as tender as fine white jade, but on the other side, the five fingerprints were clearly visible, which made people’s eyes tremble.

“Yao’er, is this a bit inappropriate?”

Mu Yunyao held her cheek and carefully looked it up for a while. She nodded with satisfaction: “I don’t feel like there’s anything wrong with it? It feels right.”

Su Qing could only suppress the worry in her heart. After accompanying her to eating for a while, she saw that it was almost the time. Then, she got up to send Mu Yunyao out.

As soon as she came out, she saw Qi Mama standing at the door. She didn’t know how long she waited, but there was actually some dew on the tip of her shoes. “Greetings, Miss Mu. The Eldest Madam has ordered me to arrange a carriage for you and let this servant wait outside the Palace gate. When you finished entering the Palace, I will pick you up and take you back.”

Mu Yunyao was supported by Jin Lan and Jin Qiao from both sides. She looked energetic, but her eyes filled with a strong sense of exhaustion. “Thank you, Qi Mama.”

“Young Miss is too polite.”

The carriage was placed with soft cushions that were exceptionally meticulously placed on top, and it felt comfortable after sitting on it. Mu Yunyao heard the sound of the carriage rolling past the bluestone street and closed her eyes to rest her mind.

Jin Lan and Jin Qiao, who were sitting at the side, did not dare to make a sound. They just waited quietly at the side. After about an hour, the carriage slowly stopped. “Miss, we have arrived.”

Mu Yunyao slowly opened her eyes. Her eyes were as clear as the blue sky, pure and untainted by a speck of dust.

When Jin Lan and Jin Qiao saw her current appearance, they couldn’t help but be slightly stunned. At this moment, Miss’s aura seemed to be exceptionally different. In the past, when she was facing her mother, she also had a pure worry-free appearance, but compared to now, she still lacked a bit of clarity. The Young Miss seemed to have faded all the distracting thoughts from her mind. It was like the sky had suddenly become sunny after the heavy rain had passed. It was clear and clean to the extreme.

Being helped from the carriage, Mu Yunyao slightly straightened her body before tidying her dress and slowly walking towards the Palace gate.

A young eunuch was already waiting at the entrance of the Palace. When he saw Mu Yunyao, he hurriedly bent his knee and bowed, “May I ask if you are Miss Mu?”

Mu Yunyao nodded in return. “This humble one is Mu Yunyao. Greetings, Eunuch.”

“Miss Mu is too polite. This servant, Xiao Gui, has sent the order of Eunuch Li to wait for Miss Mu at the entrance of the Palace. After the Imperial Court is over, the Emperor still has to meet the minister in the imperial study. After that, there was a half-hour break. The girl had to wait for a while.”

“Yes, thank you for your advice, Sir.”

Mu Yunyao had a gentle attitude, and her line was well-mannered, but the injury on her cheek was so apparent, attracts Xiaogui, Eunuch who led the way, took a sneak peek several times.

Mu Yunyao noticed his gaze, but she didn’t care. Instead, she observed the scenery of the Imperial Palace from the corner of her eyes.

In her previous life, she did not have the fortune to come to the Palace and had only seen it outside the Palace walls a few times from afar. The only thing she can see was the Royal Palace gate, which was more than ten meters high outside the palace wall. The pavilion with double eaves and sharp roof protruded like five phoenixes fluttering their wings. At that time, she was still looking forward to it, and it would be nice to have a closer look. Now she walked in and looked at it carefully, but there was no longer that longing he had from before.

This Palace has gone through several dynasties and had been expanded over and over again until it finally had today’s grand scale. The vermilion walls and glazed roof tiles gave off a majestic aura everywhere.

Along the way, Mu Yunyao did her best to endure the discomfort as she followed the young eunuch and deliberately avoided along the way, but there weren’t many people.

Walking to a Palace, the young eunuch stopped in his tracks, “Greetings, Eunuch Li.”

Mu Yunyao raised her head and saw the smiling face of Eunuch Li. She greeted him as well, “I greet Eunuch Li.”

“ Miss Mu is is too polite. Your Majesty is currently receiving a court official. As there are too many matters, there will inevitably be delayed a bit. Miss Mu should wait first in the side hall for a while. When the time comes, I’ll call you again.” Eunuch Li’s attitude towards Mu Yunyao was exceptionally intimate. First, it was because of her relationship with Xu Li. Second, it was because the purse that Mu Yunyao had given him yesterday had banknotes worth over a thousand taels of silver. It was really too extravagant. Today, it was inevitable that he would subconsciously treat her well.

After entering the side hall, Eunuch Li gestured for Mu Yunyao to sit down before instructing the eunuch who was leading them to serve the refreshments, “Miss Mu, please take a seat.”

“Thank you, Eunuch Li.” Along the way, she followed the little eunuch and walked quickly over. A layer of sweat had already formed on Mu Yunyao’s forehead. If she were to wait outside, she might really be unable to hold on.

“Miss Mu, you are too polite. I still have some matters that I must attend to and cannot wait here with Miss. Please forgive me.”

“I don’t dare to disturb my Lord.” Mu Yunyao quietly waited inside the side hall. After waiting for nearly an hour, she finally saw Eunuch Li walk in again, but this time, his complexion was clearly worse. After bowing to Mu Yunyao, he reminded her in a low voice, “Miss Mu, the Emperor wishes for you to go. The Emperor is in a rather not good mood.”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes moved, “Thank you, Eunuch Li.”

Arriving at the entrance of Yi Xin Palace, Mu Yunyao lowered her head and waited for the announcement, and after a long while, she heard a call: “Young Miss Mu Yunyao, enter the hall.”

Mu Yunyao slightly lowered her head and entered the hall very respectfully. Out of the corner of her eyes, she caught a glimpse of the Emperor wearing a bright yellow robe with dragon patterns embroidered on it. She promptly knelt and respectfully said, “This humble daughter, Mu Yunyao, greets Your Majesty.”

Mu Yunyao’s voice was clear and soft, and it was notably pleasant to hear in the great quiet hall.

The Emperor, who was frowning, slightly relaxed his expression, “Stand up. Are you Mu Yunyao?”

The Emperor’s voice filled with the dignity of a person in power. Even without looking at his appearance, her heart oppressed to the point where she could hardly breathe.

“In reply to the Emperor, yes.”

The Emperor looked at Mu Yunyao. The young girl in front of him had a petite stature, and her head was lowered, making it difficult to see her appearance. She stood there quietly, dressed delicately and charmingly, making her look very comfortable. Moreover, after entering the door, she was very polite. At first sight, she was specially trained, but she was also a child who kept the etiquette.

As the Emperor was thinking, he suddenly met a pair of eyes full of curiosity, causing him to be stunned for a moment. Mu Yunyao, who he praised just now, had unexpectedly raised her head to looked at him. She was quite courageous. “Mu Yunyao, could it be that no one told you before you came that you can’t look at Son of Heaven’s Face directly?”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 273

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 272

~ THE COMPLAINT NATURALLY SHOULD BE MADE ~  

Mu Yunyao laid on the bed, her cheek resting on her arm. Her fair and flawless arms were placed together with the bruises on her face. The contrast was exceptionally intense, causing people couldn’t help but take a deep breath just by looking at her: That Miss Meng is too fierce. How much strength did she use?

“Wen Mama, do you have any instructions from Grandmother?”

“The Old Madam was not feeling well yesterday and had rested very early. This morning, she heard about Young Miss and immediately felt worried. The Old Madam had a severe headache and couldn’t even get out of bed now, so she sent this servant to visit you first.”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes flashed with a cold light. Those who didn’t know would think how much the Old Madam loved this granddaughter of hers. “Grandmother is worried about me.”

Wen Mama observed Mu Yunyao carefully, as though she wanted to read some emotion from her face, but after looking at it for a while, she couldn’t catch anything. “Young Miss, the Old Madam knows that she has treated Madam and you unfairly for all these years, so she is wholeheartedly trying to make up for it. But in the end, there are many things in the big family. Just like yesterday’s Miss Meng, even if she was against Eldest Miss, she still had to suffer. After all, Miss Meng’s grandfather was the Grand Preceptor of the Imperial Court, while her grandmother was a princess of Qingning. There were too many implications behind her actions. We can’t make the relationship stiff because of a little unhappiness. If that happens, the entire Su family will be in danger.”

After Wen Mama said this in earnest, she saw that Mu Yunyao was silent, causing people to be unable to figure out what she was thinking.

“Young Miss, the Old Madam also wanted me to tell you the rules of the Palace. The Palace is filled with nobles, so you have to be extra careful with your words and deeds. If you have any small mistakes, you can easily be held accountable.”

Only then did Mu Yunyao slightly nod her head. “Mama, please speak.”

Wen Mama slightly heaved a sigh of relief because she was willing to speak. She was afraid that Mu Yunyao would be angry and refuse to listen to anything she said. In the next hour, Wen Mama talking about what Mu Yunyao should pay attention to after entering the Palace. She also secretly persuaded Mu Yunyao not to say anything wrong, especially she couldn’t mention all that had happened in the Su family’s backyard to the Emperor.

Mu Yunyao had been quietly listening. After Wen Mama had finished speaking, she called Jin Lan in. “Wen Mama, thank you for your hard work. Jin Lan will go prepare some refreshments and let Wen Mama take a rest.”

Wen Mama stood up. “Miss Jin Lan doesn’t need to trouble herself. Young Miss’s body is injured, so she only has a bit short of energy. I’ve already finished what I needed to say. With Young Miss’s intelligence, there shouldn’t be any problems. This old servant still has to return to serve the Old Madam. I’ll take my leave.”

As for the Old Madam’s previous request to ask Mu Yunyao if she had any clothes that she could wear to the Palace, Wen Mama did not speak at all. After all, she had seen Mu Yunyao’s beautiful attire when she was in Jingling City. Just her clothes packed in several large boxes, so how could she not have suitable clothes to wear?

“Thank you, Wen Mama. I’ll have to trouble you to make a trip here personally. Jin Lan, help me send Wen Mama out.”

“Yes, Miss.”

Not long after sending Wen Mama away, Su Qing brought in a bowl of porridge. “Yao’er, your face is injured, so it would be better for your injuries to recover if you eat light.”

Mu Yunyao giggled as she sat up, “Mother, the injury on my face only looks serious on the surface, but it’s actually just a slap. It’s nothing, no need to be so careful. I don’t want to drink the porridge. I want to eat the Eight Treasures Rice that you made.”

Su Qing, however, disagreed and directly shoved the bowl into Mu Yunyao’s hands, “My daughter’s body is naturally very delicate and expensive, not to mention the injuries on her face are too extreme. You should obediently drink the porridge for two days. When the wounds are gone, you could think about anything else. Moreover, we don’t have a small kitchen in Jiyue Pavilion, so it is really a bit troublesome if you want to eat Eight Treasures Rice.”Mu Yunyao took a spoonful and tasted the porridge. She slightly frowned as she said, “It doesn’t taste good. Speaking of this kitchen is indeed a problem. Mother, you should endure it for these two days first. After some time, we’ll have our own kitchen.”

Su Qing was stunned. She then looked at Yao’er nervously, “Yao’er, why does Mother feel so flustered? You aren’t really planning to bring the incident from that day to the Emperor’s presence, right?”

Mu Yunyao blinked and nodded as if it was a matter of course, “Naturally. Didn’t the Eldest Madam only brazenly side with her niece because no one else in the Su family could handle the situation? If others can’t manage it, then the Emperor naturally can manage.”

The reason she spent so much effort and money to spread her name so that she would not be wronged. But she was injured when she arrived in the Capital, so there must be an explanation for this matter. If the Eldest Madam did not give it to her, she would ask for it herself!

“But just now, the Eldest Madam sent someone to deliver the medicinal herb, and you accepted it. Wen Mama also came to appease you, so she must want you to endure this grievance. If you were to continue bringing this matter to the Emperor, would there be anything amiss?” Su Qing was worried. They couldn’t leave the Su family for the time being. If they angered the Old Madam and the Eldest Madam because of this, she was afraid that they would be troubled in the future.

“With just a few words of consoling and medicinal herbs, you want to settle this matter peacefully? How can there be such a cheap thing exist in this world?”

“But the Emperor is the ruler of a nation. He has so much to do and manages everything every day. Would he really care about such a small matter that happened in the backyard of the Su family?”

Mu Yunyao slightly pursed her lips: “I am also not sure if the Emperor will care about it, but no matter if he does or does not care, as long as I say this grievance in front of him, the Su Family should not have any peace. As subjects of the Imperial Court, what they cared about the most was the Emperor’s opinion on them. This time, the Emperor didn’t care, then the next time I feel wronged, I’m going to tell him again. If I add it up again and again, will the Emperor not be affected at all?”

Su Qing couldn’t hold back her laughter, “It’s already fortunate that you could see the Emperor once. How can you say that you can enter the Imperial Palace and complain again and again? Do you think that the Palace belongs to you? Aiya, looking at how I spoke, I forgot to be proper for a moment...” To say that the Imperial Palace belongs to one’s own family is to be suspected of treason. She might even lose her head if she tried to rebel.

“Mother, don’t worry, I know what I should do. Even if I can’t personally come to the Palace to see the Emperor in the future, there will always be a way to spread the news.” If things got out of hand, there was also Yue Wang. At worst, she would have spent more money than usual.

Su Qing caressed Mu Yunyao’s hair and said sincerely, “Yao’er, it’s not that mother wants to make you suffer, but that you have to be careful of what you say. If you don’t say it properly, you will lose your head.”

Mu Yunyao leaned into Su Qing’s embrace, “Mother, don’t worry. I will live for a hundred years. In the future, I still need to properly respect and filial piety. How can I bear to die?”

Su Qing suppressed the tears in her eyes with great difficulty, “Fine. Mother will wait for you to be filial.”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 272

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 271

~ THE OLD MADAM WHO SHAKES THE POT ~ 

The Old Madam shook her head, and her expression looked rather cold. “You are usually busy. How can you take care of everything alone? After all these years, you have never made any mistakes while in charge of the residence. I naturally believe in you, but people will inevitably have their own preferences. Although the back is all flesh, the flesh is actually thinner than the palm.”

Was she blaming her for having favored Meng Yanran yesterday?

The Eldest Madam hurried forward to pay her respects. “But what did your daughter-in-law do wrong that displeased you? Please enlighten me, Mother.”

Old Madam Sun pondered for a moment before opening her mouth. “I heard that Yunyao was injured yesterday?”

“Yes, it’s a fight between two little sisters. You should know that Yanran was spoiled by her grandfather and grandmother. Sometimes it is inevitable that she will lose her sense of proportion in her words and actions, so ...”

“So, you defended Meng Yanran and wronged Yao’er?” she asked.

The Eldest Madam’s heart tightened. Judging from the Old Madam’s words, she was trying to blame it on herself? Didn’t she think that she was the one who intervened yesterday?

“Mother, Yanran was frightened at the time. She was so frightened that she even tore her own clothes. I was worried that something might have happened to Yanran here and wouldn’t have been able to explain it to the Meng family, so I subconsciously sided with her. After Yao’er got slapped, I felt distressed when I saw it ...”

“Since you know that you’ve wronged Yao’er, have you given her a proper explanation?” The Old Madam’s tone softened.

“I came to Jiyue Pavillion today to pay a visit, but Yao’er seemed to be angry and refused to speak.”

“You are an elder, so you should naturally learn to be tolerant. As for Yao’er, you need to talk to her again, don’t make her feel resentful. After all, she is still young, so there is nothing to block her words and actions. If there is anything bad spread out, won’t it bring shame to our Su family?” The Old Madam looked at the Eldest Madam indifferently. It was only when the Eldest Madam nodded in agreement that she was satisfied, and there was an extra smile on his face.

When the Eldest Madam walked out of the Old Madam’s courtyard, Ninghe Garden, she felt like she was being roasted on a fire. Her heart, liver, spleen, and lungs felt miserable everywhere. If she really cared for her granddaughter, she would not have sent Lin Yuhan to do that yesterday. Seeing that Mu Yunyao was about to meet the Emperor, the Old Madam panicked and was so flustered that she asked her to say nice words to pacify Mu Yunyao. She had taken all the great things, but the bad things had to be done by herself!

Could it be that the Old Madam’s face was her face, and hers, as an Eldest Madam’s face, was a piece of paper that was worthless? When she thought about speaking kindly to Mu Yunyao, the Eldest Madam felt as if she had been slapped in the face a few times.

Wen Mama brought a cup of tea and placed it next to the Old Madam. “Old Madam, have some tea. Don’t worry too much about the matters of those juniors.”

The Old Madam gently played with the Buddhist beads in her hands and slightly lowering her eyes. Her slightly relaxed eyelids blocked the emotions that flowed in her eyes, “All these years have been smooth sailing. Why is it that everything is under her control became like this? Carelessness makes it easier to stir up trouble. These days make the eyes of the people underneath a little tighter. It’s almost the Mid Autumn Festival, and It’s better to be a little more secure.”

“Yes, Old Madam.” After Wen Mama finished answering, she stood to the side. The room was silent for a long time before she suddenly heard the Old Madam speak again.

“Wen Mama, I believe in your judgment. What do you think about Mu Yunyao?”

Wen Mama couldn’t figure out the meaning behind the Old Madam’s words for a moment, so she could only speak up. “Previously, the Old Madam also asked this, and this servant thought that Miss Mu was smart and beautiful. It’s a rare thing.”

“Smart… After all...” Old Madam Sun seemed to want to say something, but when the words were just about to leave her mouth, she quickly swallowed them back. Her expression turned unnatural for a moment as she continued, “In a while, bring the medicinal ingredients and go to Jiyue Pavilion to take a look. Also, ask Yao’er if she has proper clothes for her presence tomorrow at the Palace. If she doesn’t have proper clothes, then borrow them from Yuyi for her use. Also, tell her the Palace’s rule. Otherwise, she says something that she shouldn’t have said after entering the Palace. It would be bad if she angers any noble person.”

“Yes, Old Madam.”

Wen Mama couldn’t figure out the meaning behind the Old Madam’s words for a moment, so she could only speak up. “Previously, the Old Madam also asked this, and this servant thought that Miss Mu was smart and beautiful. It’s a rare thing.”

“Smart… After all...” Old Madam Sun seemed to want to say something, but when the words were just about to leave her mouth, she quickly swallowed them back. Her expression turned unnatural for a moment as she continued, “In a while, bring the medicinal ingredients and go to Jiyue Pavilion to take a look. Also, ask Yao’er if she has proper clothes for her presence tomorrow at the Palace. If she doesn’t have proper clothes, then borrow them from Yuyi for her use. Also, tell her the Palace’s rule. Otherwise, she says something that she shouldn’t have said after entering the Palace. It would be bad if she angers any noble person.”

“Yes, Old Madam.”

Mu Yunyao lazily laid on the bed, asking Si Hua to massage the bruise on her waist again with medicated oil. The bruised blood gradually dispersed, and the range of bruises became wider. It looked particularly shocking on her snow-white skin.

Every time Su Qing looked at it, Su Qing had to shed tears, causing Mu Yunyao to feel distressed. “Mother, don’t worry too much. I had rested all night last night, so it doesn’t hurt anymore.”

“You tricked Mother when you went to see Eunuch Li just now, but you couldn’t even stand properly.”

Mu Yunyao couldn’t help but laugh. “I’ve suffered such a great grievance, so I naturally have to be pitiful in front of outsiders. Although it still hurts a bit, it’s mostly an act. If Mother doesn’t believe me, I’ll come down now and take two steps to show you.”

Su Qing hurriedly stepped forward and placed her hand on Mu Yunyao’s shoulder. “Mother trusted you. Quickly lie down and rest. Mother will make some pork bone soup for you later. You will be healed faster if you drink it.”

“Mother, it’s not like I hurt my bones. What’s the use of drinking the bone soup?”

“Drink more bone soup. You’ll grow taller and stronger if you drink more. This way, the next time someone hits you, you’ll be able to dodge, and you won’t have to suffer so much pain.”

Mu Yunyao felt sour in her heart. Her mother’s heart was always that soft, but she still had a smile on her face as she said, “Alright, then Mother will boil a little more, so I’ll drink a little more.”

Su Qing hurriedly nodded. When she saw Mu Yunyao’s expression, her heart relaxed a bit. “I understand.”

Just as they were talking, Jin Lan walked in quickly. “Madam, Miss, the Eldest Madam has sent someone to deliver a lot of medicinal herbs. There is even some precious nourishment for the body.”

The smile in Mu Yunyao’s eyes vanished. “Eldest Aunt has good intentions. Since the things have been delivered, then I’ll accept them. Tell Eldest Aunt that I’ll personally go and thank Eldest Aunt after I’ve recovered from my injuries.” If she didn’t accept the gift that was delivered to her, it would be a waste.

“Yes, Miss.”

Not long after, Mu Yunyao, who had just fallen asleep, heard Jin Lan enter and report, “Miss... Wen Mama has arrived.”

Mu Yunyao didn’t open her eyes, but she only opened her mouth and replied, “Invite her in.” She did not expect the Old Madam to lose her composure so quickly.

Wen Mama walked in and subconsciously looked around at the decorations around her. Jiyue Pavilion had was originally decorated very exquisitely, but now it is even better than before. The floor was covered in a fluffy peony carpet, and when people stepped on it, it was as if they were standing on clouds, which made them feel extremely comfortable and soft. A piece of furniture has been replaced with the delicate style of Jiangnan. The exquisite design was exceptionally compatible with this Jiyue Pavilion.

Between the outer hall and the inner room was a large folding screen, embroidered with a picture of mountains and rivers s in a remote style. It was unknown who had made it, but it was so captivating.

Around the screen, a dark red bead curtain made of Jade Seal Jade Beads hung at the door of Mu Yunyao’s room. The bead curtain’s color was the same, and the beads were round and full, and each bead was absolutely identical. It was hard to tell if there was any difference, but just this bead alone would probably cost more than ten thousand taels of silver.

Wen Mama was sighing with emotion in her heart when she heard Mu Yunyao’s slightly weak voice, “Wen Mama, you’ve arrived. My movements are currently inconvenient, so I can’t stand up to welcome you.”

Wen Mama immediately became attentive. She stepped forward, holding her breath, and curtsied. “Your servant greets Young Miss.”

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Incurable Chapter 19 Part 2

In Liu Qianxiu’s car, Mu Wan buckled her seatbelt. His friend lived in the South District. From Tang’er Hospital in the North District, it usually took over an hour. But they left early; it was only 4:30, before traffic thickened.

By the time rush hour arrived, they were already on the coastal road.

The car rolled smoothly out of the hospital gate. At the first red light, Mu Wan asked, “Is your friend a doctor too?”

Mu Wan didn’t have many friends. If you counted, it was basically Lin Wei and Gao Mei. Liu Qianxiu seemed to have even fewer. In all the time she’d been around him, he was always alone.

He disliked being disturbed, and he didn’t disturb others. If he trusted someone enough to leave the cats with them, that relationship had to be solid.

“No,” Liu Qianxiu replied.

The light turned green. The car moved. Mu Wan’s body leaned back against the seat with the motion, but her eyes stayed on his profile.

Perfect lines. Quiet, clean stillness.

If both of them hated being disturbed, then two people like that could probably help each other without friction.

Mu Wan shifted slightly and asked, half-serious, “Then… a fellow Daoist?”

Liu Qianxiu glanced at her. She was staring at him, waiting.

“No,” he said. “A university classmate.”

“Oh.” Mu Wan looked away at the broad road ahead and murmured, “So a classmate.”

Outside the window, the sun was still bright. Xia City’s greenery was expansive. Under the overpass, the road was smooth and clean, vegetation thick and glossy with summer shine.

Mu Wan filmed a night shoot until four in the morning. After wrapping, she’d rushed back to Xiacheng without stopping. She hadn’t rested at home either—just washed up, dressed, and came straight here.

Chatting with him, watching the scenery blur, she fell asleep somewhere along the flat stretch of the coastal road.

The car reached the South District. Liu Qianxiu parked and glanced toward the passenger seat.

Mu Wan’s head tilted against the window. Hair spilt down to her pale shoulder. Her neck stretched slightly, the line flowing into her jaw. With the engine off, her breathing was long and calm, sleep peaceful.

Liu Qianxiu looked away and stepped out.

He rang the doorbell of a standalone villa.

It was already 5:30. The sunlight still felt strong, but the salty sea wind carried dampness. It felt like it might rain again.

The bell chimed once. The door opened quickly.

A woman stood there with a gentle smile. She was beautiful in a clean, delicate way. Long black hair tied into a low ponytail. When she smiled, she had the soft elegance of a Jiangnan woman—warm, graceful.

Seeing Liu Qianxiu, she smiled and said, “You’re here.” Then she stepped aside.

Liu Qianxiu thanked her and entered.

Huai Jing came downstairs just then. His peach-blossom eyes lifted.

“I thought you were going to dump these cats on me permanently.”

He looked like he’d just come home from work. A deep purple shirt, tie removed but collar still open, showing a slice of collarbone. As he spoke, he undid his cufflinks and walked down.

He and Liu Qianxiu were about the same height—around 1.9 meters—both tall and long-limbed. Standing together, their differences were sharp.

Huai Jing carried the aggressive, polished aura of a businessman. His features were refined, his eyes lazy with arrogance and flamboyant confidence.

Liu Qianxiu, by contrast, was clean and quiet, almost ascetic. Even his looks seemed softened by his temperament—aloof, calm, and untouchable.

“You want them?” Liu Qianxiu asked.

Before Huai Jing could answer, a white blur darted past his pant leg. A fluffy, beautiful ragdoll cat hopped to his wife, Xu Xingkong. Xu Xingkong lifted the cat and smiled, stroking its head.

“Forget it,” Huai Jing said, shaking his head. “Even one is a waste of time.”

Xu Xingkong looked up at him. Huai Jing held her gaze, then pressed his lips and amended, decisive, “One is okay. But raising a bunch together is too much.”

“That’s not how you ask the owner for a cat,” Xu Xingkong corrected him. She set the cat down and smiled at Liu Qianxiu. “Qianxiu, your cats are in the cat room.”

The cat room was on the first floor. Xu Xingkong led the way. Huai Jing and Liu Qianxiu followed, chatting.

“I won’t keep you for dinner. I don’t want to wash more dishes.”

“Buy a dishwasher. Problem solved.”

“That’s why you’re single. You don’t understand the joy of married life.”

At that, Xu Xingkong turned and shot Huai Jing a look, ears faintly red. “Huai Jing.”

Huai Jing’s gaze softened. “It’s wisdom from your elders.”

Xu Xingkong sighed. In front of others, she was shy. She glanced at Liu Qianxiu, then told her husband softly, “Don’t say it like that.”

“Fine.” Huai Jing smiled. “I won’t.”

Liu Qianxiu, standing behind them, asked calmly, “Can I take the cats now?”

The couple both looked back. Xu Xingkong looked away first, red-faced, and opened the cat-room door.

“…Yes.”

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 19 Part 2

Incurable Chapter 19 Part 1

The office was silent. From the corridor came the occasional rush of gurney wheels, the frantic rolling sound threaded with a patient’s low moans and a nurse’s soft instructions.

Mu Wan sat on the exam bed, hands braced at her sides. Her shoulders lifted slightly, collarbones subtly raised, forming a graceful hollow at her throat. She lowered her eyes to her raised foot.

A plain, ordinary bandage sat on the pale top of her foot. The edges lay neat and flat, covering the red mark and the cool sting of the red antiseptic Liu Qianxiu had dabbed on.

Most doctors had a touch of cleanliness obsession. Liu Qianxiu didn’t, not exactly.

He was simply disciplined.

And because of that, everything he did was clean, precise, without a shred of waste.

Mu Wan wiggled her toes, then looked up at him. “Will it heal before you get off work?”

She’d come early. It was only 4:30. Liu Qianxiu still had an hour before he officially got off. She wasn’t leaving.

She planned to wait right here, in his office, as a “patient.”

Liu Qianxiu lifted his gaze to her, set his things down, and answered calmly. “Mm.”

He agreed. Mu Wan lifted her foot a little higher and grinned.

At the doorway, Xiao Yun stood watching.

Inside, the woman sat on the exam bed in a fitted ginger-yellow dress, her waist slim enough to wrap one hand around. Black hair spilled down her back, leaving only narrow shoulders exposed. She was tall and thin, yet even from her back alone, you could feel the sheer, effortless allure.

A woman’s charm wasn’t something clothes gave her.

It was something she gave the clothes.

The red dress last time, the ginger-yellow today. On anyone else, it would be imitation.

Xiao Yun lowered her lashes.

When she came over, she’d heard the nurses gossiping about a stunning woman walking into Doctor Liu’s office. Their voices were sharp with jealousy and admiration, but their conclusion was the same.

Doctor Liu wouldn’t pay her any attention.

Liu Qianxiu was like an immortal, with a depth most people didn’t have. A man like that wouldn’t be shallow enough to fall for a gorgeous face.

Staring at Mu Wan’s back, Xiao Yun’s eyes flashed with faint contempt. She knocked.

Both people inside turned.

Xiao Yun pushed the door open and walked in.

“Doctor Liu, the department head wants you. He needs to discuss the surgical plan for next week’s operation.”

As she spoke, her gaze slid toward Mu Wan. She offered a polite smile, then looked away.

Whatever had happened at Masyale’s restroom last time had been filed away as if it had never existed.

Mu Wan didn’t smile back. She watched Liu Qianxiu, concerned about a different issue.

“Will it take long?” Mu Wan asked.

Liu Qianxiu rose. The light from the window shifted as his body blocked it. He looked down at Mu Wan.

“Not long. Wait here. We’ll leave together in a bit.”

His voice was low, meant only for her. But the office was too empty, too open, and sound traveled without restraint.

Xiao Yun’s gaze changed.

Liu Qianxiu stood by the exam bed. Mu Wan still braced her hands behind her, chin tipped up toward him. Even without sunlight, her eyes were bright—black as ink, clear to the bottom.

“Okay,” she said.

Liu Qianxiu withdrew his gaze, picked up the documents from the desk, and said to Xiao Yun, “Let’s go.”

Xiao Yun blinked, then recovered. Her lips moved before she managed a single word.

“Okay.”

Right before leaving, she looked at Mu Wan properly for the first time.

Mu Wan was smiling at her. The dress caught the light. She looked like a small wildcat—sharp and sweet at once.

Sharp to Xiao Yun.

Sweet to Liu Qianxiu.

Out in the corridor, Xiao Yun walked at Liu Qianxiu’s side. Nurses passed, greeting them. Xiao Yun looked at him and smiled.

“Doctor Liu, it’s not really appropriate to leave Miss Mu alone in your office.”

Liu Qianxiu glanced at her—his gaze like wind, sweeping lightly across her chest.

Xiao Yun’s smile tightened.

“I’m only reminding you. A doctor’s office isn’t somewhere just anyone can come and go… unless they’re very close.”

“Mm.” Liu Qianxiu looked away, his tone bland. “Then she has no problem.”

Xiao Yun’s chest seized.

Her throat trembled.

She lowered her eyes.

Liu Qianxiu hadn’t lied.

Mu Wan played two rounds of Plants vs. Zombies on the exam bed, and he was back.

The door clicked. Mu Wan lifted her head, eyes lighting up.

“You’re back.” She pocketed her phone and hopped off the exam bed.

Her foot was fine. She slipped her heel on, the bandage peeking out.

Liu Qianxiu swept his gaze over it, answered quietly, and set the documents down. Then he took off his white coat.

“Can we go now?” Mu Wan asked.

“I can leave early.” He’d only returned from his trip this morning. He hadn’t even been scheduled to work this afternoon, but the hospital called him in. He hung up the coat and said, “I need to stop by a friend’s place to pick up the cats. Are you coming?”

Without the coat, he wore a linen shirt and trousers, still in that same light, comfortable style—clean and faintly otherworldly.

Mu Wan’s eyes wandered to the line of collarbone at his open neckline. She didn’t answer his question.

Instead, she asked, “Is it a boy or a girl, friend?”

Liu Qianxiu looked at her, expression steady.

Mu Wan felt a flicker of guilt under his gaze. She was about to explain herself when he answered.

“A man. However, the cats are under his wife’s care.”

“Oh.” The jealousy in Mu Wan’s chest settled, then turned sweet all over again. She answered lightly, as if it didn’t matter.

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