Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 247

~ TESTING LIU MAMA ~ 

Su Qing widened her eyes slightly and lowered her voice, “Yao’er, is there a problem with that Eight Treasure Tofu?” 

“There is nux vomica powder added, but the amount is relatively small. So, there won’t be much problem with today’s meal.” 

Su Qing’s heart turned cold, “What if I eat for too long?”

“A little too much will give you a headache, chest tightness, and nausea. It’s very similar to the symptoms of seasickness when you’re in a boat. If the amount is excessive, it may cost you your life.”

“Yao’er, the Su family plans on making a move now?” Su Qing’s voice trembled. It was unknown if it was out of fear or anger.

Mu Yunyao held her hand, “Mother, don’t worry. The Su family isn’t stupid to this extent. I think some people must have committed some mess and came up with such a stupid move.”

“Yao’er might have guessed who it was?” Su Qing filled with worry.

“The weather is good today. I’ll help Mother take a walk outside, just in time to see who can’t sit still.”

“Alright.” With a smile on her face, Mu Yunyao helped Su Qing to the railing. They had already entered Bian River, the river surface was wide, and the water flows smoothly. The two sides of the river were extremely busy, they could see the buildings on both sides of the river, and occasionally, one could hear loud songs and fishing songs.

However, Su Qing didn’t have the mood to admire the scenery. Her chilled hand grabbed onto Mu Yunyao tightly.

Mu Yunyao held onto Su Qing’s arm, gesturing for her to look towards the horizon. “Mother, take a look. The sunset on the horizon is so beautiful.”

Su Qing could not help but look up when she heard the words. In the distance, the water and the sky were all the same color. The river surface had been dyed red by the setting sun, and some flames seemed to be burning below the water surface. Occasionally, birds would fly past by at low altitude, as if they were flying between the water and the fire, making people couldn’t help being surprised: “It is indeed so beautiful.”

Mu Yunyao narrowed her eyes. When she heard the sound of movement behind her, she couldn’t help but turn her head to look over, and she saw Liu Mama walking up from the lower floor.

Liu Mama was feeling pleased with herself, she had previously heard someone say that Su Qing loved to eat tofu, but Mu Yunyao was very picky about it and never touched any of these things. The best part about the ingredients was as long as Su Qing didn’t feel comfortable eating it, she could find an excuse to say that the medicinal herbs on the boat were insufficient and go to the shore to buy medicine to help Su Qing recuperate.

Although Su Qing was the Old Madam’s biological daughter, this daughter had to live on the outside for so many years and had married a peasant family. Since the Su family had taken her back because of their blood ties with her, how could the Su family pay more attention to them? She only used some small tricks, and as long as Su Qing recuperates a little bit for a few days, she could not find the slightest clue.

Liu Mama raised her head, full of smiles, and looked directly into Mu Yunyao’s smiling eyes. Her heart couldn’t help but tremble. Those eyes were black and white, and the depths of her pupils reflected the sunset. It was like a flame rising. In the blink of an eye, it had penetrated the hearts of the people. “Greetings, Madam. Greetings, Young Miss.”

“Liu Mama, there’s no need to be so polite. Have you eaten already?”

“In reply to Young Miss, I’ve already eaten.”

“Mn, I heard Ying Xue say that Mama likes tofu very much, so I prepared some on the boat. Coincidentally, my mother also likes tofu very much.”

Liu Mama’s heart couldn’t stop beating wildly, and the smile on her face was clearly stiff. “I didn’t expect Madam would like it too. If I had known earlier, I would have people to prepare some more.”

Su Qing was very bewildered in her heart. When she heard Liu Mama’s words, she didn’t say anything rashly, just smiled and said nothing.

Mu Yunyao smiled. “I can see that Mama’s complexion isn’t good, but what’s wrong with it?”

“Maybe it’s because I’ve been on the boat for a long time, so I feel a little uncomfortable.”

“Then Mama should hurry back and rest. Didn’t you say that there is a doctor accompanying? I’ll tell someone to get a doctor to look at you later.”

“No… There’s no need. It’s just a minor problem. I’ll be fine after sleeping. This servant thanks Young Miss, for your concern.”

Mu Yunyao had been carefully observing Liu Mama’s expression. When she saw him, she became even more distracted, and the coldness in her heart increased a bit, “Doctor He, my mother has a headache today. I don’t know why, so I have to trouble you to take a look.”

“Alright.”

Su Qing covered her wrist with a handkerchief. After He You had finished checked her pulse, he kept smiling, “Madam, you have been on the boat for a long time, a symptom of a false fire and having a bad night’s rest. That’s why you have a headache and will be fine after taking some medicine to recuperate for a few days.”

Mu Yunyao nodded her head, “I’m actually worried in my heart. If Mother doesn’t recuperate in time, will the root of the disease remain?”

“The medicinal ingredients on the boat are insufficient. Some people require to take care of their bodies, but some people don’t need it. This disease can be very serious or very small. If the healing is not complete, it will indeed be troublesome …”

“Is that so … Oh yeah, Liu Mama isn’t feeling too well either. Just now, she looked especially unsightly, so doctor He helped her take a look.”

“Yes.” He You went forward and took Liu Mama’s pulse. What he said was more or less the same, as she had been on the ship long enough to make her uncomfortable.

Mu Yunyao nodded, then turned to look at Su Qing, “Mother, why don’t we let the boat approach the shore and rest for a couple of days? We can buy all the medicinal ingredients we need to help you recuperate?” While she was speaking, she had been looking at Liu Mama from the corner of her eyes. When she saw the happiness flash across her eyes, her heart instantly turned cold to the extreme point.

Su Qing shook her head, “Never mind. It’s nothing serious. Didn’t you talk to the doctor just now? I’m just feeling a little uncomfortable. Besides, we’re only a few days away from the Capital. It’ll be over after a while.”

“Alright, then I’ll help Mother to have a rest.”

Liu Mama was stupefied. Her expression darkened as she followed doctor He out. Liu Mama didn’t expect that even after Su Qing was sick, still unwilling to let the boat to shore. What should she do now?

Mu Yunyao supported Su Qing onto the bed and sent Ying Xue and the others out with an excuse.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 247

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 246

~ SOMEONE’S PLAYING A TRICK ~ 

Liu Mama, who was still smiling, suddenly became stiff. According to their original guess, even if Su Qing and Mu Yunyao had something to take along, they wouldn’t carry much. Who would have thought that a boat wouldn’t be able to hold them?

Recalling the boxes that had previously piled up in the courtyard, Liu Mama felt a lump in her throat. When people arrive at the Su family’s residence, but there will be nowhere to put the things, the Eldest Madam will lose face. Lui Mama, who came to observe the situation but didn’t report the circumstances truthfully, would be definitely punished!

The journey on the boat was considerably calm. After Liu Mama realized that the situation wasn’t right, she thought of a way to send a letter to the Eldest Madam, so she came to encourage Mu Yunyao, “Young Miss, the scenery along the way is so beautiful. Moreover, we’ve been on the boat for three days. I’m sure you’re tired too. Would you like to go ashore to rest for a night?”

Mu Yunyao shook her head slightly. Her eyebrows furrowed, and her tone became a little low, “Earlier, there was a delay of many days in order to deal with the matter of Jingling City. With the golden signboard personally bestowed by the Emperor, we cannot abandon Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo. Since we have already decided to return it to the people of Jingling City, I can’t ignore it. Because of that, they have not left until now and rush to the Capital. Mother and I felt extremely guilty, and now we wish that we could grow a pair of wings and fly directly to Grandmother. Where can we be able to get ashore to rest for the sake of our own well-being?”

Liu Mama was speechless. She carefully looked at Mu Yunyao’s expression, hoping to see some hypocrisy in her words. But no matter how she looked at it, the guilt and longing on her face were very affectionate and sincere.

Su Qing also nodded in agreement, “Yao’er is right. We were already extremely uneasy after delaying for so long. Now we don’t even have the mood to rest. Let’s travel through the night.”

Liu Mama couldn’t do anything but mutter, “Yes.”

When Liu Mama left, Mu Yunyao’s lips curled up into a smile. “Mother, with our current speed, we should arrive in the Capital in six days. Mother will have to suffer greatly along the way.” Although Su Qing’s seasickness was not very obvious this time, it was indeed very uncomfortable to spend a long time on the boat.

“Mother, what suffering do I have? It’s rare for you to have such leisurely days. But you, you eat too little these days. Don’t starve yourself to death.”

“Don’t worry, Mother. I’m fine.”

When Liu Mama left Mu Yunyao’s room, she couldn’t help but feel annoyed. Before she came here, Eldest Madam had mentioned to her before that as long as she did this job well, she will reward her with a hundred silver taels. Furthermore, the Eldest Madam would also arrange for her son to have a good match. She can use this opportunity to show her face in front of the Eldest Madam!

She initially had thought that things would be so simple. To deal with two people from the countryside, she can use some tricks to make them unable to stand it, but she had neglected many things. Who would have thought that these two people would actually bring so many things with them? If the yard arranged by the Eldest Madam really couldn’t fit, it would be a shame and a loss of face. This debt would definitely go to her. After all, she had not sent back the crucial information. In this way, not to mention reward, it would great if she didn’t get punished.

Liu Mama was anxious in her heart and couldn’t help but think of a method to bring the boat to shore. If she can send a messenger pigeon to send a message when they landed ashore, it can send a message to the Eldest Madam before they reached the Capital. While thinking, Liu Mama saw Zhi Qiu pour the dregs into the river, and her eyes immediately narrowed. After which, a smile appeared on her face, and she felt much more relaxed.

Traveling north by boat, the weather seems considerably cool, but Mu Yunyao’s appetite was not that good, and she ate too little these two days. When Su Qing saw this, she became anxious and went to cook herself, hoping that Mu Yunyao would eat more.

Since there was nothing to do on the boat, Mu Yunyao read the book for the whole afternoon. Feeling a little tired, she slept on the bed for a while, and when she woke up, Su Qing was personally bringing the dishes over. When Su Qing saw that Mu Yunyao had woken up, she quickly called out, “Did you wake up after smelling the fragrance of food?”

Mu Yunyao knew that Su Qing was worried about her, so she smiled as she spoke, hoping that she could make Su Qing relax a little. “Isn’t it precisely because I awakened by Mother’s cooking?”

When the Snow Fox that had been lying beside Mu Yunyao’s pillow saw her get up, it hurriedly stood up and jumped onto her shoulder. It intimately rubbed its head against the side of Mu Yunyao’s face as it let out a whining sound from its mouth.

When Su Qing saw this, she could not help but laugh. “This Snow Fox’s personality is extremely compatible with yours.” They all love to coquettish.

“Mother is actually joking. I’m much more adorable than this Snow Fox. Furthermore, how good-looking am I?”

“Aiyo, Mother is indeed wrong. You don’t like this Snow Fox. After all, the Snow Fox is not as shameless as you.”

If Mother says it like that, I won’t listen to her. I feel so sad that I feel hungry …” Mu Yunyao wiped her hands as she spoke, then sat down on the edge of the table. After smelling the smell from the food, she abruptly stopped talking, her eyebrows moved, and then she asked without batting an eyelid, “Are all of these dishes made by Mother?”

“Yeah, I think that your appetite isn’t that good, and you’ve eaten very little in the past two days, so you can eat all the food that I’ve cooked.” Su Qing didn’t notice Mu Yunyao’s abnormality and handed the chopsticks over as she spoke.

Although she had Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the rest to accompany her, Su Qing still liked taking care of Mu Yunyao by herself. Every time she saw Mu Yunyao ate sweetly, she felt happier than when she was full. “Quickly, eat some while the food is still warm.”

Mu Yunyao got up and picked up some dishes before placing them in Su Qing’s bowl. “Mom, eat more as well.” After picking up the food, she pulled the Eight Treasure Tofu in front of her for herself.

Su Qing felt a little strange. Mu Yunyao usually didn’t like to eat tofu because the smell of the tofu was too strong. She had made this dish for herself, so why was it so abnormal today? Just as she was about to ask, she inadvertently noticed the coldness in Mu Yunyao’s eyes, and her heart shook.

“This Eight Treasure Tofu is excellent. I didn’t expect there to be such ingredients on the boat. I wonder who prepared them?” Mu Yunyao raised her head to look at Ying Xue and asked with a smile.

“To reply Young Miss, Liu Mama likes tofu better. Presumably, she asked someone to prepare it for her.”

Mu Yunyao’s fingers, who was holding onto a pair of chopsticks, lightly moved it. “Un, what a coincidence, Mother really likes it too.” As she spoke, she scooped a spoonful and placed it in her bowl, but she didn’t use the spoon until the end.

Seeing Mu Yunyao act like this caused Su Qing to feel even more uneasy. Mu Yunyao waited for the others to clear away the food, then accidentally knocked over her bowl, and the things in the bowl fell to the ground. When she picks it up again, she was unable to differentiate its original appearance.

It wasn’t until Ying Xue and Jian Chun left that Su Qing couldn’t help but say, “Yao’er, but …. What’s wrong with that?”

Mu Yunyao smiled, but a cold light flashed in her eyes, “There’s someone who can’t bear it anymore, and she doesn’t want us to be too peaceful!”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 246

Incurable Chapter 14 Part 2

Hong Xiu held its opening ceremony on Monday. Mu Wan’s role was early-stage cannon fodder. She had to enter the crew right at the beginning. Sunday afternoon, after visiting Da Tou and Er Tong at Liu Qianxiu’s place, she took the bullet train to Wen City.

Wen City lies south of Xia City, a historic old city, about 4 hours by car. Mi Yu, as the second female lead, would attend the ceremony as well, but Mu Wan rarely rode in the same car with her. For short trips, she preferred public transport: driving four hours versus a high-speed train in an hour and a half.

She’d already been added to the Hong Xiu group chat. After getting off at the station, she took a cab to the Wen City Hotel, where the crew was staying.

Wen City Hotel was the best hotel in the city. It was Mu Wan’s first time staying at a five-star hotel for a TV drama. With Shen Group’s investment, the production was visibly flush. When she picked up her key card, she overheard someone gossiping that the hotel had been booked out just so the female lead could stay comfortably, and everyone else was benefiting from her.

Ah. The female lead.

Mu Qing.

When Gao Mei told her a few days ago, only a few flashes of memory crossed Mu Wan’s mind, and she didn’t think much further. From the start, she and the Mu family were strangers—her mother was the thread holding them together.

Her mother died. The thread snapped. They went their separate ways, never to cross again.

The Mu family wished Mu Wan didn’t exist. To Mu Wan, the Mu family was only a tree she once passed, a wind that once blew by—seen, felt, then gone without any ties.

Mu Wan returned to her room.

It was a standard twin room: an entryway, then, straight ahead, the floor-to-ceiling window and balcony. The room was spacious, fully equipped, and decorated with a slightly antique feel. Wen City was an old city; even just stepping off the train, Mu Wan could feel the thick cultural weight in the air.

That evening, the crew held a meeting to discuss the arrangements for the next day’s opening. The director and producer wouldn’t arrive until tomorrow, so it was fairly relaxed. After the meeting, everyone returned to their rooms.

Gao Mei shared the room with Mu Wan. Back upstairs, the two of them ran lines for a while. Gao Mei ran out briefly, and when she came back, she carried a pile of braised snacks and oden.

“Got it from the logistics guys.” Gao Mei set everything on the table. A salty-sweet smell rose instantly.

They were at the desk by the balcony. Scripts spread out. Mu Wan held a duck claw, looking down at her phone, while Gao Mei kept talking about gossip.

“Mu Qing isn’t coming to the opening ceremony tomorrow. The crew will shoot other people’s scenes first while waiting for her.” Gao Mei gnawed on the duck claw, amazed. “Her backing is insane. They say she’s engaged to Young Master Shen Cheng from the Shen family. And she’s from an old family too—a proper young lady.”

The sweet-spicy taste spread across Mu Wan’s tongue. She glanced at Gao Mei. Most of this gossip was probably secondhand. The Mu family had declined even back in her grandmother’s generation. With Mu Qing’s father in charge now, there was none of the old grace left.

Mu Wan didn’t comment. She kept scrolling, looking at her cats. The meeting had run late; it was already 9:30 when they dispersed. Liu Qianxiu slept at 10, so Mu Wan didn’t disturb him.

After enough script drilling, Mu Wan finished the duck claw, then went to shower and sleep.

The next day, the opening ceremony happened as scheduled. Mu Qing indeed didn’t come. The male lead and Mi Yu’s scenes were being filmed at the foot of Wenshan Mountain, so Director Zhang Chengze naturally went there.

This drama was a Republican-era medical + espionage series. Mu Wan played a disposable nurse. Her scenes mostly took place at Wen City Central Hospital. The director filmed the main storyline, while Mu Wan’s scenes were handled by the assistant director on-site at Wen City Central Hospital.

After the drama aired, it would also promote Wen City Central Hospital, so the hospital cooperated fully. They even cleared out certain wards for actors to change costumes.

After changing in the ward, Mu Wan pinned on her nurse’s cap and pushed the door open.

The Republican-era nurse uniform was different: inside was a long-sleeved cotton-linen top, while outside was a long white slip dress, unlike modern nurse scrubs.

Mu Wan headed toward the small garden behind the hospital, where she was filming.

She had just stepped out of the inpatient building when she swept her gaze across—and spotted a group walking into the emergency building.

Among them, one tall man stood out immediately.

Mu Wan’s heartbeat spiked. Before she even realized it, she was already running over.

“Liu Qianxiu!”

The emergency building was noisy, but her voice was sweet and clear. After she called out, she saw Liu Qianxiu turn back.

Clean brows and eyes. That quiet, refined aura.

The moment he turned, Mu Wan’s whole heart filled with honey.

Her heart hammered against her ribs—thump, thump, thump. She looked at Liu Qianxiu, eyes flickering, and smiled.

Xiao Tan turned too. When Mu Wan came close, he glanced at her nurse’s uniform and laughed.

“I didn’t expect you to be in the same line of work.”

“I’m not,” Mu Wan said quickly, standing beside Liu Qianxiu. Heat rushed up, making her face burn. “I’m an actress.”

Then she tipped her head up to look at Liu Qianxiu, eyes bright.

“Didn’t you say it depended on the arrangements?”

She was in a nurse’s uniform. Under the white cap, her face looked small and vivid, her eyes wet and shining, her red lips slightly curved. When she smiled, the light in her eyes blinked like her heartbeat.

Liu Qianxiu lowered his lashes slightly. Under them, his eyes were dark and clear. His expression stayed calm, his voice low.

“Mm. The arrangements came through—so I came.”

The author has something to say: 

Mu Wan: I have your child in my stomach, this is what you laid down!

Liu Daochang: When did I fight?

Mu Wan: Well, a few days into the future ... right?

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 14 Part 2

Incurable Chapter 14 Part 1

When Mu Wan arrived, the woman in the red dress at the table slightly changed expression. Her eyes dimmed in the end, and she lifted her glass to take a sip of lemon water. After drinking, she looked over again—calm restored, that faint, barely-there condescension returning.

Mu Wan’s red lips curved subtly. Following Liu Qianxiu to the table, she sat down beside him as the server pulled out a chair.

This was an upscale Western restaurant—quiet and serene, with simple, elegant decor. Their seats were tucked into a corner, like a small private nook, separated by branches; the people inside were half hidden, half seen.

In the nook, the crystal chandelier shone brightly. Several oil paintings hung on the wall. The tableware was spotless. Every detail in the small space spoke of refinement and restrained luxury.

Xiao Tan saw that Liu Qianxiu had brought someone—and a woman at that. His gaze flicked between them.

“And this is…?”

“Hello, my name is Mu Wan,” Mu Wan introduced herself. “I needed to speak with Doctor Liu. When he heard I hadn’t eaten, he brought me along.”

After that, Mu Wan nodded to the female doctor beside them. “Thank you, Doctor Xiao.”

Xiao Yun smiled lightly, as if it were nothing. “No problem.” As she spoke, her back straightened bit by bit, a wave of heat rising under her skin.

So she really was haunting him.

Xiao Yun wore a bright red dress tonight, radiant and eye-catching. Mu Wan, however, wore only a black halter top and deep coffee-colored harem pants. The pleated waistband tied into a large bow beneath her flat stomach, emphasizing a slender waist and lifted hips—her proportions flawless.

She hadn’t put on much makeup. Her brows were dark and long; under her wavy hair, her face was small and pale, her lips vivid red. She looked like a Hong Kong film star under a vintage filter—naturally alluring, coolly glamorous, impossible to look away from.

The server came over. Mu Wan ordered with ease. Since Liu Qianxiu had brought her to dinner, there was no need to be overly polite or embarrassed. After she ordered, Liu Qianxiu chose the same.

With Mu Wan’s arrival, the meaning of the meal changed instantly—no longer a “thank-you dinner,” but a simple internal gathering. Xiao Yun began talking about a few recent surgeries, every other word a technical term. Mu Wan couldn’t understand and couldn’t jump in. She rested her chin in her palm and stared at the oil paintings on the wall, waiting for the food.

Watching Mu Wan sit there bored at the table, Xiao Yun slowly gained confidence.

This restaurant served delicate dishes, so the food came a bit slowly. After waiting a while, Mu Wan got up and went to the restroom. As soon as she came out, she saw Xiao Yun washing her hands at the sink.

That little space by the sink was brightly lit, the faucet reflecting light. Under the lamps, the red dress looked even more vivid.

Mu Wan didn’t like Xiao Yun because she looked down on her and considered her frivolous. But they were sharing a table, and Xiao Yun was the host. Mu Wan walked over and greeted her.

Xiao Yun stood upright. She was about the same height as Mu Wan. Both were slender, but Mu Wan’s curves were more pronounced. Xiao Yun swept an indifferent glance over Mu Wan and spoke lightly.

“When we were talking just now, you were pretty bored, weren’t you?”

Her tone was acceptable. Mu Wan didn’t make it stiff. With water running over her hands, she answered softly.

“Doctor gatherings are like that. The topic never leaves surgery, patients, papers… It’s too specialized. Outsiders can’t join in, so it feels dull.” Xiao Yun’s words carried an undercurrent as she smiled, turning to look at Mu Wan. “But doctors don’t really notice. Doctors understand doctors—so we’re all having a great time.”

Mu Wan turned off the tap.

Only the two of them stood there. The faucet still dripped after Mu Wan shut it, a small sound tapping into the porcelain basin.

Mu Wan—this “outsider”—lifted her eyes to Xiao Yun. That speech had Xiao Yun’s personal style written all over it: fake seriousness, posture, self-importance, contempt. She was implying Mu Wan and Liu Qianxiu weren’t in the same world.

Mu Wan’s lips lifted. Her smile stayed polite and composed. She looked Xiao Yun up and down once and said:

“The red dress is pretty.”

Xiao Yun’s chin trembled.

She’d bought it on purpose after seeing Mu Wan look good in one, thinking Liu Qianxiu liked it.

Mu Wan pulled a paper towel, still smiling. She dried her hands slowly and said:

“But Doctor Liu has already seen me wear it. He won’t really look at anyone else wearing it anymore. I’m an actress. When it comes to looks, I’ve never lost.”

She wiped the last drop of water away, tossed the damp towel into the trash, and left the restroom with a smile.

When she returned, Xiao Tan and Liu Qianxiu were still talking. Since they’d started on surgery, they continued. Mu Wan had just walked up when she heard Xiao Tan say:

“Next week there’s a research conference at Wen City Central Hospital—are you interested?”

Liu Qianxiu didn’t answer. He sensed Mu Wan’s approach and glanced back at her. Mu Wan looked at him, about to ask about what Xiao Tan had just said, when the server greeted them and announced that the dishes were coming.

As the food arrived, Xiao Yun came back too. She’d touched up her makeup; her expression hadn’t changed—still gentle, still poised.

The table talk remained about surgery. Mu Wan cut her steak with her knife, eyes on Liu Qianxiu.

Liu Qianxiu glanced back at her once.

Mu Wan chewed her steak, lips moving in small motions. Since she couldn’t join the conversation, she just kept eating—until her steak plate was almost empty. Xiao Tan asked Liu Qianxiu something; Liu Qianxiu turned to answer, and without drawing attention, slid his untouched steak—already cut—toward Mu Wan.

He hadn’t eaten any, but it was neatly cut. A hand used to a scalpel cut steak just as well—each piece even, edges clean, arranged in tidy rows.

Mu Wan puffed her cheeks as she looked at him. “You’re not eating?”

“Mm.” Liu Qianxiu answered quietly.

Sweetness filled her chest. Mu Wan handed him her empty plate.

“Then I’m eating it all~.”

He took the plate and set it in front of him, saying softly, “Okay.”

Their movements were small. Xiao Tan didn’t notice. Only Xiao Yun, holding her lemon water across from them, lowered her gaze. Her knuckles slowly whitened.

After dinner, everyone split up. Mu Wan followed Liu Qianxiu home to see the cats. Since she really had nothing else to do, she’d eaten two full steaks—her belly was round and full. Even the ribbed fabric of her halter top looked stretched.

Mu Wan buckled her seatbelt. Her belly bulged like a little hill. She gave up trying to hide it and turned her eyes to Liu Qianxiu beside her.

Liu Qianxiu started the car. Sensing her gaze, he turned to look. Mu Wan glanced down at her belly; his eyes followed, and he saw it, too.

Mu Wan laughed and teased, “Doctor Liu, look at this belly—how many months am I?”

Her frame was slim and long. With her belly rounded out, she looked oddly adorable.

Even though he wasn’t an OB doctor, Liu Qianxiu estimated anyway. “Four months.”

Mu Wan pushed her belly forward slightly, hands braced on her narrow waist.

“See? This is the empire you built.”

She meant: her belly got this big because she ate the extra steak he gave her. But the words sounded—belatedly—suggestive.

Her cheeks warmed. She straightened up, subtly pulling her belly back in. Outside the window, streetlights flickered past, not bright enough to show her face clearly.

Liu Qianxiu’s gaze paused. His lips pressed tight. He looked away and drove.

Back at Liu Qianxiu’s place, Mu Wan checked on the kittens—hugging this one, rubbing that one—then remembered she’d be going to Wen City to film.

She stepped out of the cat room. Near the bedroom door, Liu Qianxiu had just come out after a shower.

He really didn’t like eating out. Not only did he avoid it—if the outside smell clung to him, he’d wash it off the moment he got home. He stayed dust-free, without the slightest trace of worldly smoke and warmth.

His hair was half-dry. He wore loose, wide-sleeved and wide-legged loungewear, his figure lean and upright. Under black hair, his dark eyes and red lips looked unexpectedly vivid. A towel hung over him; he wiped briefly, set it down, and lifted his gaze—spotting Mu Wan.

He was too clean—clean like transparent spring water.

Mu Wan’s heart sped up. She steadied herself and asked, “That research conference your hospital has next week in Wen City … are you going?”

Liu Qianxiu listened quietly, then lowered his eyes to her. His gaze was clear and bright. Mu Wan felt guilty under that look.

“I… I overheard it,” Mu Wan said. “Because I’m going to Wen City next week, too, for filming. Are you going to that conference?”

She asked again, looking up at him—urgent.

They stood in the living room. Their shadows overlapped on the floor. Mu Wan waited for his answer. Liu Qianxiu’s lashes trembled slightly, and he said lightly:

“Depends on the hospital’s arrangements.”

If he said that, then nine times out of ten, he wouldn’t go.

Mu Wan went, “Oh.” Then she added, “If you go, maybe we’ll run into each other at the hospital, because my drama is filming there.” Her right arm reached behind her back, fingers gripping the bend of her left arm. “If you go, there won’t be anyone to watch the cats. If you don’t… then I won’t see you until the week after next…”

The words slipped out with her emotions. She lowered her lashes, not quite happy.

The moment she finished, she snapped back and hurriedly added, “I mean—I won’t see Da Tou and Er Tong until the week after next.”

The living room lights cast a layer of shadow across her face. Her head was slightly lowered as she stared at the carpet. With her arm gripping her other arm, her collarbone looked even sharper.

She wasn’t short—just very thin. Standing there alone, she looked like she had endless things she wanted to say.

Liu Qianxiu looked away. “I’ll take you back.”

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 14 Part 1

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 245

~ PUT AN EYE ~ 

When she came to Jingling City before, Su Qing felt seasick. This time, in order to make her mother more comfortable, Mu Yunyao had prepared a lot of things. However, when they arrived at the boat, Su Qing didn’t know if she had gotten used to it or not, but she didn’t feel too uncomfortable. 

Mu Yunyao and Su Qing were sitting in a room on the second floor. Looking at both sides of the river through the window, she said, “I feel a little reluctant to leave suddenly.”

“Who says it isn’t?” Su Qing also filled with emotions. “I didn’t expect that so many people would come to send us off.”

Thinking of the people’s blessing when sending her off, Mu Yunyao slightly raised the corner of her lips. “Mother, everyone wishes us all the best. I think that this time when we return to the Capital, we will surely be able to achieve all our wishes, and everything we want will come true!”

“That’s good.” Su Qing couldn’t help but laugh.

Jin Lan, Jin Qiao, and the others carried some cleaned fruits, “Just used the ice to cool it. Please have a taste, Madam and Miss.”

Su Qing picked up a grape and stuffed it into Mu Yunyao’s mouth, “You can’t be greedy. Just eat two grapes and have a taste.”

“Alright, I’ll listen to Mother.”

Mu Yunyao leaned on Su Qing’s shoulder as she listened to the faint sounds of water splashing coming from outside. Her sight gradually became distant as the clear light slowly circulated in her eyes. It was as if a bright moon hung silently in the night. Her lips are delicate like petals, with a shallow smile. If there is nothing, it is just like the fragrance of osmanthus.

Su Qing tilted her head slightly. Seeing Mu Yunyao’s expression, she couldn’t help but smile. Yao’er’s looks are becoming more and more outstanding, especially her fair skin, looking like white jade tofu, as if tender can pinch out water. This year, her stature has also risen a lot, and her figure is more exquisite than before.

She was as slender as ever, yet her slim waist and four limbs still leaned limply against her body, as if she were as weak as a bone. How could anyone be cruel to hurt such a delicate and beautiful person?

On the boat, nothing happened on the first day. On the second day, Wen Mama brought several servants to see Su Qing.

“Greeting, Madam. Greeting, Young Miss.”

Su Qing had just finished her breakfast and recovered from yesterday’s departure. She was in high spirits as she asked, “Wen Mama, is something the matter?”

Wen Mama’s face was full of smiles. “Reporting to Madam, previously, Madam and Young Miss were busy arranging business in Jingling City, so this servant didn’t have the mood to disturb you. Now I want to introduce a few servants to Madam, this servant is Zhou Mama, and the girls next to her are Ying Xue, Jian Chun, Guan Xia, and Zhi Qiu. When Madam and Young Miss first arrive in the Capital, they must have a lot of maladjustments. These servants can follow you and can be at your service.”

Mu Yunyao put down the book in her hands, looked at the few people following behind Wen Mama, and her gaze focused on Zhou Mama. The Su family also put a few people beside her in the previous life. Among them was this Mother Zhou. At first, this mother Zhou did her best, which moved her deeply. Later, she found out that this person was being respectful on the surface but had secretly helped the Young Miss of the Su family plan and almost killed her. Zhou Mama had been ridiculing her every day ever since she submitted to Jin Wang. She had even frequently hit and scolded her. Even now, those vicious and harsh curses are still very clear.

Su Qing looked at the people Wen Mama had introduced, and she looked a little embarrassed. “Wen Mama must have seen it too, I have Si Qin and the other three by my side, also have Liang Mama. I’ve also brought a lot of other servants with me. If Zhou Mama also goes with me, doesn’t it seem a bit too much...”

Wen Mama smile at them. “Madam has quite a lot of people by her side, but she still has to take care of Young Miss. Moreover, when we arrive at the Su family, there will be many guests visiting. When we get busy, we will not be able to use enough people…”

Su Qing naturally didn’t want those who didn’t know anything to be by her side, and even more so didn’t want them to take care of Mu Yunyao. She wanted to say a few more words of rejection when she heard Mu Yunyao speak.

“Mother, Wen Mama is so thoughtful. Si Qin, Liang Mama, and a few others should take care of Mother. I only have Jin Lan and Jin Qiao by my side, so I’ve really lacked people. How about keeping Zhou Mama, Ying Xue, and Jian Chun behind?”

Being unable to keep everyone by Su Qing and Mu Yunyao’s side, Wen Mama felt slightly disappointed. However, after interacting with them for so long, she knew that Su Qing and Mu Yunyao were not someone who could be manipulated by anyone, so she didn’t dare to say anything more. She hurriedly motioned for Zhou Mama, Ying Xue, and Jian Chun to salute Mu Yunyao, “Hurry up and greet Madam and Young Miss!”

“This servant greets Madam and Young Miss.”

Mu Yunyao smiled and said, “There’s no need to be so courteous. When we first arrived in the Capital, Mother and I must have many things that we don’t know, just like Wen Mama said. We still need you to talk about them all the time.” 

“This servant dare not. She must do her best to take care of Madam and Young Miss.” Zhou Mama hurried forward to reply, her expression extremely respectful, precisely the same as her previous life.

The smile on Mu Yunyao’s face became even more resplendent. “I can tell from this Mama’s every move that she is a person of utmost respect. With you by my side, the fear in my heart lessened. I don’t know which master Mama was serving before?

“Reply to Young Miss, this servant following Eldest Miss’s side to await her orders. But now that I’ve come to serve Young Miss, naturally, I’ll place more importance on Young Miss.”

Mu Yunyao nodded and looked at Ying Xue and Jian Chun, “What about the two of you?”

“Reply to Young Miss, both these servants are maidservants who had just entered the residence. It was the Old Madam who picked us out to serve Madam and Young Miss.” 

“Alright, since you’ve already followed me, I will definitely not treat you wrongly from now on. Jin Lan, bring me the greeting gift that I prepared.”

Jin Lan hurriedly carried three bags. Two of them were placed together, and one was left alone. She brought it forward, and Zhou Mama naturally chose the one that separated and gave the remaining two to Ying Xue and Jian Chun.

“Thank you, Madam. Thank you, Young Miss.”

“Hmm, you go down first. Let Jin Lan and Jin Qiao tell you about my usual habits. I don’t have many things to do, but the rewards and penalties are always clear. If you do something wrong, I won’t care whether you have chosen by my grandmother or not.”

“Yes, your servant will take her to leave.”

Wen Mama also retreated and couldn’t help but sigh after returning to her own room.

Liu Mama’s tone was a bit strange. “I originally thought that Miss Mu was unremarkable, but now it seems like she has more backbone than Madam. She’s so young, but has this kind of thought …” She didn’t finish speaking, only chuckled. There was a trace of disdain in her laugh.

This time, Wen Mama seemed to have thought of something and actually started chatting with her. “The affairs of the estate have always been handled by the Eldest Madam. The Old Madam seldom takes care of things, so I wonder which courtyard cleaned up for the sake of Madam and Young Miss?”

“The Eldest Madam ordered the Chao Lu Garden to be prepared. That courtyard is so beautiful, and I believe that Madam and Young Miss will extremely fond of it.”

Wen Mama nodded her head. “Chao Lu Garden’s scenery is indeed so beautiful, but isn’t the courtyard a little too small? I wonder if we can fit in all these things?”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 245

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 244

~ SEND OFF ACROSS THE CITY ~ 

Steward Qin hurriedly shook his head, “Miss, the items have already reduced over and over again. We really cannot be any less.”

“If that’s the case...” Mu Yunyao was in a difficult situation.
“The Shopkeeper at the boat store said that if we want to use the boat, he can leave the best boat to Madam and Young Miss. Why don’t I get someone to ask about it?”

“That’s fine too. If there are boats available, we can take them all with us. We can avoid trouble in the future.”

“Wei Yi, hurry up and go to Xing Shun Boat Company. Tell the Shopkeeper there to leave a few boats behind for us.”

“Yes.”

The moment Wei Yi left, Steward Qin hurriedly turned around to command the others, “Quickly bring out all the things in Young Miss’s storage room. If you have other boats, you can let Young Miss take them away.”

The others quickly complied.

Soon Wei Yi came back, and accompanying her was the owner of Xing Shun Boat Company. “Greetings to Madam and Miss Mu. I, Feng Xing, am the owner of Xing Shun Boat Company. The boat had prepared, and if Madam and Miss are dissatisfied with anything, you can tell me directly. I will do my best.”

Su Qing had a smile on her face. With each movement she made, her demeanor was already extraordinary. “Boss Feng, there is no need to be overly courteous. In your rush, I’m afraid that it may have brought you quite a bit of trouble.”

“How can you say that? During this time, I have succeeded in taking Xing Shun Boat Company to another level through Bun Xian Luo’s help, so I am very grateful to you. I heard that Madam and Miss Mu need a lot of things to take with you, so I picked some quick and efficient workers to help you carry the items up.”

“Thank you.”

Seeing that it was about time, Mu Yunyao accompanied Su Qing out. Just as they stepped out of the door, their footsteps suddenly stopped. Many commoners were standing in front of the gate, and many of them looked reluctant.

“Madam Su, Miss Mu …”

“We are here to see you off. I hope that you and Madam have a safe journey.”

“We have brought some things with us. We hope that Madam and Miss Mu will accept them and not mind them.”

Mu Yunyao and Su Qing were extremely surprised. Looking at their honest faces, they couldn’t help but feel touched, “Many thanks to all of you, my fellow neighbor. We are already very grateful to all of you for coming here and send us off. We all have a hard life, so you should take everything back. We respect it in our hearts.”

After talking for a while longer, Mu Yunyao and Su Qing firmly decided not to accept anything from the people and only repeatedly expressed their gratitude. Seeing that it wasn’t too late, the two of them got on a horse carriage and rushed the dock at the port of Jingling City.

Along the way, people stood on both sides of the street. Thanks and blessings heard all the time. Many more people were waiting on the dock. Seeing Mu Yunyao and Su Qing coming down from the carriage, they hurriedly expressed their blessings.

Mu Yunyao and Su Qing didn’t even have the time to persuade them to return when they saw Governor Zhang and his wife, as well as Li Mu Nian and Lady Zhou, rushing over in a horse carriage.

Everyone immediately knelt down and saluted, and their voices echoed in the sky.

Governor Zhang and others came forward and quickly signaled the people to get up: “Madam Su, Miss Mu, we were busy yesterday and did not have the time to attend the banquet to give back to the people. Today, we heard that Madam and Young Miss are about to leave and return to the Capital, so we rushed over.”

“My Lord is busy with matters of the heart. I’m sorry to trouble you to come over. Our mother and daughter are very sorry.” Su Qing’s face filled with fear. She really did not expect that Governor Zhang would actually come and send them off.

“Jingling City is under my jurisdiction. Madam and Miss Mu have greatly contributed to Jingling City, so I am grateful for the people’s behalf. After knowing that Madam and Young Miss are about to depart, I don’t know when I can see you again. How can I not send you off?”

“Thank you, My Lord.”

“Because in a hurry, I didn’t have time to prepare any gifts. It’s just a little bit of my heart, Madam and Young Miss must accept it.”

Su Qing didn’t refuse too much either. Before coming, Mu Yunyao had told him that she had to accept whatever gifts these people gave her. They give gifts because they wanted to form a good relationship with us, and taking them would signify that we had agreed to this friendship. In the future, we can take care of each other when we have anything in the future, “Thank you, My Lord.”

“Thank You, My Lord!” Wen Mama and the others respectfully followed behind. They had never experienced anything like this before, so they couldn’t help but feel slightly flustered. They all think that although Su Qing and Mu Yunyao had some assets, their lives would be too miserable. But now, it seemed that even Governor Zhang was extremely courteous to them. I don’t know how many people felt better off than they are, but isn’t there a sign of dissatisfaction?

There was a sound of water splashing. Wen Mama and the others carefully looked over, only to see two boats built for both cargo and passengers approaching. Both of them are decorated in a remarkably magnificent manner and has extraordinarily atmospheric. The ship sent by the Su family was in front of these two boats, and it wasn’t expressly impressive.

The boat sent by the Su family to pick up people are not as good as the boats used by Su Qing and Mu Yunyao to carry things?

Wen Mama was already panicking in her heart. She could already imagine what kind of rumors and slanders would appear once the boat arrived in the Capital. She wanted to stop them, but Su Qing and Mu Yunyao talked with Governor Zhang and others, and there was no room for her servants to intervene. Moreover, as soon as the boat docked, Steward Qin ordered people to carry the items of Su Qing and Mu Yunyao one by one. Even if she asked them to do so, would she be able to get them to come down?

Seeing that she was about to board the boat, it is too late to send people to deliver a letter. She had no idea what would happen when she arrived in the Capital!

Wen Mama felt bitter in her mouth. The Old Madam attached great importance to face, so this time she was afraid that the Old Madam would be angry.

Governor Zhang and his wife didn’t stay for long. After talking for a while, they left. Li Munian and Lady Zhou naturally followed after them.

After they had all left, Mu Yunyao looked at Ding Yuelan, who stand at the side. “Madam, after Mother and I leave, I’ll leave Ni Yun Fang to you. Please take care of me, Madam.”

“Please rest assured, Little Owner. I will do my best to manage Ni Yun Fang properly.”

Mu Yunyao nodded her head. Then, she looked towards Cai Qing, Nan’er, and the others who were beside Ding Yuelan. “You guys follow Lady Ding and study well. when you have finished your studies, you can come to find me in the Capital.”

Cai Qing hurriedly nodded with a grateful expression on her face. However, Nan’er was so upset that he wiped away his tears. “Miss, can’t Nan’er go with you?”

“It’s not right now. If Ni Yun Fang can open in the Capital in a while, you, Ah Mao, and Li’er can help out.”

Nan’er obediently nodded, “Nan’er understand. Madam and Miss must take care of themselves.”

Mu Yunyao couldn’t help but smile. This time, when she left, other than Jin Lan and Jin Qiao, all the other female disciples stayed behind at Ni Yun Fang, waiting for the time to call them into the Capital.

Steward Qin walked over, “Madam and Young Miss, all the things had loaded onto the boat. The maids, the mama, and the others who came with us are on board as well.”Su Qing nodded, “Yao’er, it’s time for us to leave.”

Mu Yunyao nodded slightly. “We’re leaving. We’ll see you later.”

All the people boarded one by one, the rope put away, and the boats slowly moved forward. The sound of the people on both sides of the river was notably loud. It could heard clearly and audible even when the ship far away.

At first, the sound of their farewells was disorderly, but eventually, it unified, “Madam and Young Miss have a good journey, everything goes well!”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 244

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 243

~ CANNOT BE LOADED ON THE BOAT ~ 

Su Qing and Mu Yunyao talked to each other for most of the night before finally falling asleep. The next day, the mother and daughter pair woke up early. Just as they finished washing up, they heard from Jin Lan that Wen Mama and the rest were waiting for them at the door. 

Mu Yunyao lightly smiled with an unknown meaning, “They sure are anxious. Take the people to settle down and only leave after eating breakfast.”

“Yes, Miss.”

Wen Mama and the rest arranged to stay in the parlor. As soon as breakfast was served, they heard a noise coming from the doorway. “What’s going on outside?”

“Don’t worry about it, Mama. It’s Shopkeeper Qin with his men from Bu Xian Luo helping Madam and Young Miss clean up the things they need to bring.”

Listening to the activity outside, Wen Mama and the others ate in a slightly absent-minded manner. After eating, they could not restrain their curiosity and got up to take a look at the door. With one look, she could not help but be surprised that there are many boxes in the yard, about a hundred or so in a few counts, and each box was full of them. Just like that, there are still many people holding things in their arms.

Wen Mama was a little dumbfounded. “ Did Madam and Young Miss actually brought so many things with them?”

Liu Mama secretly curled her lips and muttered in her heart: As expected, they came out from the countryside and treated everything like a treasure. Who knows, those boxes might only be filled with pots and pans, pieces and fragments, which makes people laugh when they are bringing it to the Su family.

When Steward Qin saw Wen Mama and the others walk out, he couldn’t help but come forward and pay his respects. “Please wait for a moment. Once the things here had recorded and placed in the box, we will be able to carry them onto the boat.”

“Shopkeeper Qin, you only need to pick some important things and put them away. When Madam and Young Miss arrive at the Su family, they will definitely not lack anything.”

With so many boxes, even the boat might not be able to hold them.

Steward Qin frowned slightly and closed the book in his hand. He opened a box nearby and said, “We can also simplify it now. Look, these boxes contain clothes that Young Miss needs to change all year round. Young Miss love to be clean, and if she’s not really fond of them, she’ll never wear them again, so she’ll need a lot of change on the road.”

As soon as the box opened, the finely embroidered clothes shone brightly. At first glance, it looked so gorgeous, which made Liu Mama, who was standing to one side, was somewhat at a loss for words: These clothes were all elaborately embroidered with a high-quality cloth. Even in the Capital, they were all so eye-catching. She can’t believe that Young Miss wearing it just once？

The corner of Wen Mama’s lips couldn’t help but twitch. “Naturally, I have to bring all Young Miss’s clothes with me.”

Steward Qin nodded with a face full of smiles: “I think that’s also the case. After all, even if they went to the Su family, making clothes now would take some time. I can’t let Young Miss change her clothes without any clothes.” Then he opened the other two boxes.

“This box contains the accessories that Young Miss normally uses. She is extremely particular about clothes and accessories and knows what kind of accessories she should wear, so I can’t leave them alone. Since she has so many pieces on my clothes, she’ll naturally have to match them with jewelry well!”

“That’s true.” Wen Mama carefully examined the contents of the boxes, her heart filled with indescribable complicated feelings. The box that Steward Qin had opened just now were all exceptionally sturdy, and it seemed like they could no longer hold anything else. If the other boxes were like this one, just how many things did Su Qing and Mu Yunyao have?

Steward Qin’s smile became even more brilliant. He pointed at the other boxes and said, “Those boxes are for the Emperor’s bestowal. You had to be very careful about everything the Emperor had given, which is a piece of cloth that should be handled respectfully and must have it with them. The boxes over there contained books Young Miss usually liked to read, and many of them are collected copies. I don’t know if the books are worth a lot of money or not, but there are a lot of tea-lovers who have come to Bu Xian Luo to drink tea to borrow them from time to time.”

It happened that Yun Chun and Wei Yi brought the jade ornaments over, and they were putting them in the box carefully. When Steward Qin saw them, he quickly stopped them: “Didn’t I tell you everything already? Don’t take everything with you, and don’t worry about the jade ornaments. First, take the things that Madam and Young Miss can use, and we will hire a boat to send the rest to the Capital some other day.”

Wei Yi and Yun Chun hurriedly took out the jade ornaments and placed them on a table at the side. “Yes, Shopkeeper Qin.”

“Sigh, these servants have not been trained. It’s quite rude, which makes Mama laugh.” Steward Qin shook his head, “I must teach them the rules in the future. Ming Yin, have you prepared the tea set that Young Miss used to use?”

“This servant has forgotten …I’ll go and get it now...” 

“Sloppy all day. Young Miss has a particular temperament. If she can’t find the tea set she is used to, she will be in a bad mood. There is the whole set of embroidery needles bestowed by the Emperor, also the collection of black and white warm jade chess pieces that she’s used to playing ... What about spices? Young Miss don’t like ambergris fragrance, so she should use the well-prepared vegetarian lilacs. Hey, what are you doing with those porcelains? Those bottles and jars, we’ll only need to buy them when we arrive in the Capital because those will take up space…”

The corner of Wen Mama’s eyes uncontrollably twitched as she looked at the porcelain bottles that Steward Qin had pointed out. If she hadn’t seen it wrongly, all of the porcelain bottles that those people were carrying could be regarded to be top quality, mainly because she had seen a gilded glass vase painted with precious peonies. Wen Mama once saw a similar one in Grand Master’s place, who would not be willing to give it away as he treated it like a treasure and was reluctant to put it out. Instead, he made a red sandalwood box and kept it inside carefully. Rumor said that it was worth more than ten thousand taels of silver...,

The place was bustling with noise and excitement. Mu Yunyao accompanied Su Qing out, “I’ll be troubling Shopkeeper Qin. When I wake up early in the morning, I was busy with the affairs of Mother and me.”

“Greetings, Madam. Greetings, Young Miss. The items have all been packed. Some of the larger items that can’t be placed into boxes only can send it to the Capital with rent a boat.”  

Mu Yunyao glanced at the boxes in the courtyard. “It’s alright. Some items aren’t needed temporarily. I will talk about them later because there are a lot of things to be packed now.”

“In reply to Young Miss, here is only a part of it, and some boxes are put in Jin Xiu Garden, which will be shipped later.”

“Alright, Shopkeeper Qin has always been meticulous in his work, so I am naturally at ease.”Looking at the boxes in the courtyard, Mu Yunyao was in a good mood. After she had silver taels in her hand, she kept buying things in an attempt to make her mother and her life more comfortable. Unknowingly, she had actually bought so many.

“Wen Mama, we can set off now.”

Wen Mama’s expression was a little stiff. Hearing Mu Yunyao’s words, she immediately came back to her senses and said with some difficulty. “In reply Young Miss, I’m afraid the boat won’t be able to hold that many things …”

Mu Yunyao’s brows slightly moved, as though she wanted to frown. But in the blink of an eye, she returned to normal. “Can’t hold it? Could Supervisor Qin possibly make it simpler?”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 243

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 242

~ GIVE IT BACK TO THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY ~

Li Munian turned to Mu Yunyao and Su Qing with a gentle expression, “Madam and Miss must have come out early, and I presume they also haven’t eaten anything yet. It’s just that there’s a table over there, especially for the people who donated silver taels. How about we go over and eat something together?”

Mu Yunyao looked at the table that Li Munian was pointing to her. Because the people of the whole city gathered here, so there was no need to pay too much attention to the rules. There are only two tables next to each other, one for men and the other for women.

Su Qing nodded her head. “We’ll follow along.”

Lady Zhou affectionately held onto Su Qing’s arm, “Does Madam Su have any restrictions to eat? I’ll repeatedly tell the people cooking below to pay extra attention to it.”

“Thank you for your concern, Madam. It’s already good enough for people in the countryside to have something to eat, so there’s nothing to avoid.” When Su Qing said this, her expression was extremely calm, causing Lady Zhou to hold her in high regard. If she could face up to look at her background so calmly, Madam Su’s mind was not ordinary either.

Mu Yunyao spoke, “A few days ago, the commoners sent over a lot of vegetables and fruits, and some people even tied up a few hens to our doorsteps. I’ve asked them to keep them in Jin Xiu Garden. It just happened to be delivered, so let’s have a taste of Baijiafan, too.”

Lady Zhou nodded her head repeatedly. “That’s good.”

Today, the entire Jingling City was bustling with noise and excitement. Many of the people nearby wanted to enter as soon as they heard the commotion. They had initially thought that the guard would stop them. However, they did not expect the guards to let them in and order them not to cause trouble inside the city.

However, they didn’t expect to be ordered by the guard not to cause trouble and let them enter the city.

Li Munian was extremely considerate. He contacted a few big grain merchants and sent over a lot of food, filling up several warehouses on the dock. However, he agreed on the terms and conditions that he would settle the bill for all the food the people received today. When the grain doesn’t use up, he will help the grain merchants sell the grain to other places.

The grain merchants were willing to accept this benevolent title. Thus, after a moment of consideration, they agreed. In this way, they would be able to repay the people in the city with extraordinary agility.

Those who were willing to take the food would go and register. After people have recorded information about themselves, they will be able to claim food according to the number of family members. If one’s family couldn’t eat all of the food, they could directly receive a silver tael equivalent to the food price, and they wouldn’t be at a disadvantage.

Because there are too many people in the city, they were still making porridge this time, but the atmosphere was even more lively than at Laba Festival.

Everyone on the street has a smile on their faces. Many orphans and beggars took their bowls and found a corner where they could eat in peace. They were eating happily, and their faces had a few traces of anger. The hot porridge went down to their stomachs, and they were sweating profusely. They raised their sleeve and wiped it with a feeling of satisfaction.

Many beggars were hungry and scared. It was not easy for them to get a full meal, and after drinking a bowl, they carefully wanted to get another bowl of porridge. On one side, a young master dressed in luxurious clothing walked by, and seeing his eager look, he coldly snorted and poured the porridge in his hand into half of his bowl, then threw two copper plates over:

“If I can’t finish, I’ll give it to you. If you’re still not full after, I’ll find someone to buy two steamed buns. It’s not easy to make porridge. It’s been burning and simmering up till now! Don’t be too greedy.”

The beggar was stunned for a moment, and then he took the bowl and bowed, “Thank you, Young Master. Thank you, Young Master. Young Master kindness will definitely be rewarded.”

The well-dressed Young Master carried the half bowl of porridge and walked away, feeling extremely pleased with himself, “I am a kind-hearted person, hahaha!”

The officials in Jingling City looked at the surrounding scenes, and their minds were full of a myriad of thoughts.

Mu Yunyao sat with Su Qing, watching the scene around them, and a warm feeling flowed through her heart. The smile on her lips was faint, but it was exceptionally genuine.

Lady Zhou seemed to have sensed something. “This said that the world is peaceful and prosperous, but even in the Capital, it’s hard to see such a thriving scene today.”

Mu Yunyao withdrew her gaze, her gaze clear enough to see the end, “The human heart is kind, but it’s just that it lacks guidance. Today, it’s only igniting a little bit of kindness, but what we reap is a prairie fire.”

Lady Zhou was startled and turned her head to look at Mu Yunyao. With eyes filled with admiration, she said, “Miss Mu is indeed knowledgeable.” She couldn’t help but think of what Li Munian had said before. When a girl like Mu Yunyao, coming to Zhou’s family, they had really wronged her. She merely didn’t know how the Su family would treat their granddaughter. If they underestimated her in the future, I would definitely have a lot of fun looking at it.

They busied for the entire day, and it was only when the sky turned completely dark that the crowd gradually dispersed.

When Mu Yunyao and Su Qing returned home, the corners of their mouths still raised unconsciously. They felt that even though they had worked hard and tired today, they were still quite fulfilled. Coming to the parlor, Wen Mama and the others stood with their hands hanging by their sides.

Su Qing said, “We have more or less dealt with the matters in Jingling City and have finished packing up everything. So, let’s leave for the Capital tomorrow!”

Wen Mama nodded her head hastily. “Yes, the boats have already been arranged. If there’s anything Madam and Miss need to take away, feel free to tell them to load it tomorrow morning.” Although the Su family didn’t send someone in charge to take over, they still had to do something about their face, so they specially prepared a two-story boat, which was extremely luxurious.

Su Qing nodded, “Alright. Then Wen Mama, you guys should go rest early. We’ll leave tomorrow morning.”

“Yes.”

After leaving the parlor, Wen Mama couldn’t help but turn her head and happened to see Mu Yunyao talking against Su Qing.

Liu Mama followed her gaze and couldn’t help but secretly pout her lips. After she returned to Bu Xian Luo and closed the door, she said, “I really didn’t expect that Miss Mu would be able to earn that much silver by opening a small workshop and tea house. In total, it’s only been a year, but ten thousand taels of silver were thrown out just like that. It’s really very generous of her to say that.”

“The silver belongs to someone else, so naturally, you can spend it as you like.” Wen Mama’s expression didn’t change in the slightest.

Liu Mama realized that her tone was too sour and quickly smiled. “Elder sister, don’t be angry. I was just casually saying it. Since Madam and Miss haven’t been to the Capital, they naturally don’t know that they have spent a lot of silver in the Capital. Now they have spent all their silver, and they earn enough reputation. But once they reached the Capital, wouldn’t they need to rely on the Su family to make up for it? It’s not easy for the Eldest Madam to take charge of the family...”

“It’s getting late. We still have to get up early tomorrow. Hurry up and rest.” After Wen Mama finished speaking, she immediately got up to wash her face.

Mother Liu was not amused. She could not help humming to herself: It seems like the Old Madam has quite a deep affection for her long-lost daughter and her granddaughter. Otherwise, this Wen Mama wouldn’t have protected them like this. She should have told the Eldest Madam in advance to prevent herself suffer losses in their mother and daughter’s hands.

On the last night before their departure, Mu Yunyao insisted on pestering Su Qing to sleep with her. Su Qing had no choice but to agree. The mother and daughter pair had finished washing their faces and were lying on the bed in their clothes. Mu Yunyao pulled Su Qing’s arm and rolled into it. “Mother, I can’t sleep.”

Su Qing did the same as she extended her arms to embrace Mu Yunyao, “Mother must have hugged a darling.”

“Didn’t mother say that I am a pampered girl? Now, I became a darling?” Mu Yunyao leaned on Su Qing and acted like a spoiled child.

“Mother is so casual, do you take it seriously? However, the skin on the face has not changed at all.”

“I feel like I’m following Mother. Who told me to care about you the most!”

“Good, you actually dared to plot against me. Mother is going to get angry.”

“Mother, don’t be angry. How about Yao’er will pinch her face to vent your anger?”

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 242

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 241

~ LI MUNIAN WHO CHOKED TO DEATH ~ 

Mu Yunyao got up early and went to her room to accompany Su Qing after freshening up. “Mother, once we have done with today’s affairs, we will leave Jingling City tomorrow. Do you feel nervous?”

“I was still nervous at first, but now that after such a long time, I’m looking forward to it. I have to take a good look at who treated my Yaoer harshly in her previous life.”

 
When she didn’t come into contact with him, she regarded the Su family as a scourge. However, now she really came into contact with the Su family’s subordinates. After a closer look, it was just like that. The fear in her heart lessened slightly, but she began to become angry with the Su family’s action from the previous life and want to see if they are really black-hearted!

“Mother would probably be disappointed when you see them. Just from their appearances, they look like fairy concubines, but if you could see their hearts, all of them would have long since turned black and stank.” Thinking of her previous life in the Su family, Mu Yunyao’s eyes flashed with hatred, causing her entire body to turn gloomy a lot.

Su Qing took a jade hairpin from the jewelry box and helped Mu Yunyao put it on. Then she stepped back two steps to appreciate her appearance: “Yao’er is really beautiful by nature, and she looks good in everything she wears.”

Mu Yunyao was stunned, and the gloomy aura around her instantly dissipated. “Mother?”

Su Qing caressed Mu Yunyao’s hair and said gently, “To Mother, Yao’er is the most beautiful when she smiled. Anyone who looks at you would feel much happier with you, and you seemed to be able to enjoy yourself even more. No matter if the Su family’s heart is dark or white, in the end, we don’t see them as family. I know that Yao’er wants them more or less trying to get revenge, and Mother will support you as well. However, if your personality changes because of them, then it will no longer be worth it!”

Mu Yunyao was silent for a moment. “Fortunately, Mother is by my side. If you weren’t there, who knows what might have happened to me?”

Looking at Mu Yunyao’s appearance, Su Qing’s heart felt as if a dull knife was gouging her out, “My daughter is better off than them, and you can consider it as my biggest revenge. Mother doesn’t want you to look back at yourself after revenge and turned into a monster exactly like the Su family! Can Yao’er understand what Mother is thinking?”

Mu Yunyao nodded her head heavily: “Mother, I understand. Please don’t worry. I definitely won’t let myself become like the Su Family.” Mother hopes that her life is happy and worry-free, and her temperament is clear and pure. Then, as long as she was here, I would definitely work hard to retain the kindness and try to live the way Mother wants to see.

Su Qing smiled gently, “Alright, we won’t be eating breakfast at home today. We’ll be going to the bustling city together with everyone. After staying in Jingling City for a long time, and we suddenly have to leave, I was really reluctant.”

“Mother likes it here. When we have time, we can come back and have a look at any time.”

“You and I are a family. As long as we are together, it doesn’t matter where we are.” Su Qing led Mu Yunyao out of the door. Just as they walked out, they saw Wen Mama and the rest walking in.

“Greetings, Madam. Greetings, Miss. There are so many people on the street right now, so if Madam and Miss want to go out, you should bring more people with you so they’ll be at your disposal anytime.” Wen Mama said after saluting.

Mu Yunyao glanced at Wen Mama with a smile. “Since that’s the case, then I’ll ask Wen Mama to bring some people along. It’s also a glorious opportunity to come into contact with the local customs and traditions of Jingling City. The people here treat people with gentleness, and they’re especially kind.” She didn’t want to like the Su family in Capital, who eat people without spitting out their bones.

Wen Mama felt that Mu Yunyao’s words contained some hidden meaning. But after careful consideration, she thought that it was impossible. She could only nod in agreement as she commanded the maidservants behind her to follow.

Having gone through the experience of making porridge during the Laba Festival, the people at Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo were somewhat familiar with some of the processes. Many things were much more proficient than others, so most people gathered here.

Mu Yunyao and Su Qing had just walked out of the residence when someone saw them. They hurriedly came up to greet them. Their voices were all noisy, and they couldn’t hear many things, but they could clearly feel their goodwill and gratitude.

“Thank you, Madam Su. Thank you, Miss Mu!”

“Madam and Young Miss are are kind-hearted, and they will remember us at all times, which really touched our hearts.”

“Madam and Young Miss, good people will receive good rewards. They will definitely live a peaceful life without any worries!”

Mu Yunyao couldn’t help but smile. The kindness gathered together made people feel warm in their hearts, “Fellow neighbors, no need to be courteous. We will leave Jingling City tomorrow and return to the Capital’s Su family. Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo will remain here, and I hope fellow villagers can help to take care of them!”

“Don’t worry, Miss. As long as we’re here, we won’t let anyone touch Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo.”

“That’s right. Miss, don’t worry...”

Li Munian and Lady Zhou walked over with some people, the surrounding people gradually dispersed, and happily went to the table aside to collect rice.

“Greetings to Lord Li and Lady Zhou.”

“There is no need for Madam and Young Miss to be so courteous.” Li Mu Nian stepped forward and supported them, his expression especially warm. “Please take a look, is there anything else that I am not meticulous enough?”

Su Qing quickly shook her head, “Lord Li is meticulous in everything he does. What is there to be careless about?”

“I am only doing my best, and it also depends on the kind heart of Madam and Young Miss. Otherwise, I would be powerless to do something for the people even if I wanted to.” As Li Munian spoke, his eyes swept past Wen Mama, and his eyes filled with doubt, “Earlier, I heard that the Su family came to pick up Madam and Young Miss. Why haven’t I seen the Su family?”

Mu Yunyao’s eyes moved, and a smile flashed in her heart. Li Munian was returning the favor, and he wanted to help her out. If he is an ordinary person, he will not dare to say such a thing at this time, but Li Munian was different. He was Li Qingzhou’s biological son, and the Li family had faintly suppressed the Su family. The Li family members were naturally all reputable figures, and Wen Mama was far from qualified to come forward and represent the Su family. Wen Mama on the side hurriedly stepped forward to salute, with a very respectful expression: “This servant greets Lord Li.”

“You seem a bit nice. Have we met before?”

“This servant has followed theOld Madam of the Su family and met Lord Li once before ….”

“Hmm, in that case, you’re here to pick up Madam Su and Miss Mu?” Li Munian frowned, a hint of displeasure on his face.

“Yes, because …” Wen Mama hastened to explain.

However, Li Munian did not have the patience to listen to her: “Although right now the court is so busy, and the Su family’s elders are busy sharing the Emperor’s worries. But it’s not like all of them are too busy to actually send a few servants to pick up Madam and Young Miss. It’s really not good manners.”

Wen Mama’s expression froze, but she couldn’t help but smile. “Your Excellency …”

“Alright, about the matter of the Su family, I, an outsider, cannot interject too much. Since they’ve sent you to pick them up, you must take good care of them along the way. Madam Su and Miss Mu are the benefactors of the entire Jingling City, and even if there are the slightest mishaps, you will not be able to afford it.

Wen Mama’s mouth was interrupted several times, but all she could do was smile. “Yes. Milord, please be at ease. This servant will definitely take good care of Madam and Young Miss.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 241

Incurable Chapter 13 Part 2

Lin Wei sat there stunned for ages. She could picture it perfectly: one lonely lamp, one man, and one woman. The man ethereal and distant, pure and cool; the woman vivid and alive, sweet and soft…

One immortal, one demon.

No matter how fierce the demon was, how could she escape an immortal’s palm? In the end, Mu Wan—who’d fallen first—would definitely get reverse-flirted into oblivion by Liu Daozhang.

Right now, there are two people.

Lin Wei clicked her tongue twice. This Daozhang had game. Usually so ascetic, all restraint and a forbidden face—yet when he dropped a line, he dropped it like a pro.

That was the real “forbidden” type.

After the retake, Mu Wan got a short break and went to the rest area. It was just a huge open room packed with supporting actors and extras. The assistant director shouted scene numbers and called people to get ready—makeup artists called out too. Loud and bustling.

It was a little after two in the afternoon. Mu Wan had only one last scene left; once it was done, she could leave—probably around four.

She found a corner and sat down, elbows on her knees, and pulled out her phone.

After last night, she hadn’t contacted Liu Qianxiu at all. These days, she only ever asks him what time he gets off work after she wraps filming, then goes to pick him up.

On set, Mu Wan rarely played on her phone. When she got bored, she used to play Plants vs. Zombies—until she paid to clear everything and lost interest. Her phone had barely any apps.

She opened her contacts and found Liu Qianxiu’s card.

She’d saved him as Liu Daozhang.

Even his number felt… aloof, as if it carried a faint chill of distance.

And Mu Wan loved it. Even a string of digits—she loved it.

She was smiling when Gao Mei came over, and she didn’t notice until it felt like a volcano leaning in and crowding her space. Mu Wan turned her head and saw Gao Mei’s big frame and her squinty smiling eyes.

“Dating?” Gao Mei asked, full of gossip.

Mu Wan locked her phone. The dark screen reflected her face—still smiling. She wore her hair in a high ponytail, her small face fully exposed, charming yet with a sharp, heroic edge.

She put the phone away. “Not yet.”

“Oho? What’s that mean?” Gao Mei’s voice shot up; her tiny eyes tried hard to open wider. “Ambiguous stage?”

Gao Mei blocked some wind, and Mu Wan felt hot. She opened her paper fan and cooled her flushed cheeks, admitting openly, “Yeah.”

“No wonder you’ve been ‘going to see the cat’ every day—you’ve been going to see your sweetheart.” Gao Mei took it and patted Mu Wan on the shoulder, holding the script in her hand.

The script fanned a little cool air. Mu Wan smiled and glanced at the cover.

Hong Xiu.

“You picked up this project, too?” Mu Wan asked.

So Gao Mei would be in the same crew again. That was good—at least they wouldn’t be bored while waiting between takes.

“Yeah. It starts filming on the 30th. Today’s Friday—so that’s next Monday, right?” Gao Mei calculated. “You and your sweetheart are going to be long-distance.”

Hong Xiu was a Republican-era medical drama. Many scenes would be shot at Wen City Central Hospital. Wen City was an old city; the hospital building was from the Republican period and well preserved.

Li Nan hadn’t told Mu Wan the exact schedule yet, but once the production started, the actors had to be on standby. Mu Wan’s fan paused mid-swish. Heat rushed right up into her face.

She started fanning again, calculating in her head.

Wen City wasn’t far, but if she had night shoots, she definitely couldn’t come back. She didn’t want to be separated from Liu Qianxiu… but her role was small; she could finish in a week…

“Oh, right—do you know who the female lead of Hong Xiu is?” Gao Mei said. “Top billing. They announced it today. Same surname as you.”

Mu Wan’s heat dropped instantly. In her ear, Wu Ma’s words surfaced: Mu Qing had gotten a boyfriend—someone from the Shen family.

Mu Wan turned to Gao Mei and asked, “What’s her name?”

“Mu Qing.”

Mu Wan pressed her lips together.

After leaving the operating room, Liu Qianxiu removed his mask. As the nurse helped him take off his surgical gown, she told him, “Doctor Liu, the director wants to see you—he’s waiting in your office.”

Liu Qianxiu pulled off his gloves, answered evenly, “Okay,” and left.

The director of Tang’er Hospital, Xiao Tan, was Liu Qianxiu’s senior from Imperial College London. Tang’er Hospital belonged to the Xiao family group. Xiao Tan had worked there after graduation, became the director last year, and had hired Liu Qianxiu.

Most people in the department knew they were school seniors/juniors. Xiao Tan sometimes came by his office.

Liu Qianxiu pushed the door open. Xiao Tan sat in a chair by the side, reading Liu Qianxiu’s recent surgical case log.

Seeing him enter, Xiao Tan looked up and smiled. “Finished your surgery?”

Xiao Tan was thirty-seven, with a proper, composed face and a refined, scholarly air. Even as director, he was gentle most of the time and rarely stern.

Liu Qianxiu answered, then sat behind his desk. The chair shifted with a small sound as he leaned back, rolled his neck once, and pinched the back of it twice.

Three hours of surgery had left him tired.

“No more surgeries today, right?” Xiao Tan asked.

They’d known each other for years. Liu Qianxiu understood his nature. He leaned forward, opened his eyes fully, and asked bluntly, “What is it?”

Xiao Tan didn’t waste time. He smiled lightly and said, “Last time you helped Doctor Xiao with her grandfather’s surgery—she wants to treat you to dinner to thank you.”

Technically, Xiao Tan and Xiao Yun were distant relatives. Their relationship wasn’t too far removed. Xiao Tan’s father valued family ties; before Xiao Yun came to the hospital, he’d told Xiao Tan to look after her.

Xiao Tan was young but held power and had plenty of social experience. When Xiao Yun mentioned “thanking Liu Qianxiu,” Xiao Tan could tell from her expression what she really meant.

Liu Qianxiu was outstanding; Xiao Yun was gentle and refined. Both were excellent surgeons with common ground. But one was cold and quiet, the other shy and reserved—so there was always a missing step between them.

After Xiao Tan finished, Liu Qianxiu stared at the orchid on the windowsill, lost in thought—pale green leaves, light blue flowers—small and full of spirit.

“Qianxiu?” Xiao Tan called him.

“Mm.” Liu Qianxiu’s expression didn’t change. He turned back to Xiao Tan. “It’s what I should do. No need.”

“You have plans tonight?” Xiao Tan asked.

“No,” Liu Qianxiu denied.

“Then it’s settled.” Xiao Tan ignored the refusal and made the decision for him. “You’re a doctor. Besides saving lives, you need social interaction. You never go to hospital gatherings—does the whole hospital only know you through me? Tonight, do me a favor. I’ll go too.”

He patted Liu Qianxiu’s shoulder.

“Tonight, seven o’clock. Masyale Western Restaurant.”

Xiao Tan got up, opened the door, and left.


Mu Wan’s last scene dragged on and on. By the time it wrapped, it was already after six. She called Liu Qianxiu to ask if he’d gotten off work.

He picked up quickly. Just one “Hello,” and Mu Wan’s heart turned sweet; she smiled without meaning to.

“Are you off work?” she asked.

“Just finished,” he answered.

The line was quiet; his voice sounded even cleaner and nicer.

“Aww…” Mu Wan felt a little regret. She hurried to the road outside the studio and looked for taxis. It was hot; around six was shift-change time, and it wasn’t easy to get a cab.

“Then I can’t wait for you today,” Mu Wan said. “Should I just go straight to your place?”

Liu Qianxiu didn’t agree. “Doctor Xiao invited me to dinner tonight. I’ll be home later.”

Doctor Xiao—who?

Mu Wan stopped, eyes narrowing. She remembered the female doctor from a few days ago—the one with that look of disdain.

Wasn’t she the reserved, dignified type? Now she was making a move too?

But this wasn’t the moment to spiral.

A restless heat rose in Mu Wan’s chest—whether it was jealousy, a sense of crisis, or something else, she didn’t know. She lowered the hand she’d been using to flag a cab and asked:

“Didn’t you say you don’t eat out?”

Last time she offered to treat him at a restaurant, that was exactly what he’d said. So why would he go out to eat when Doctor Xiao invited him?

Mu Wan pressed, “Then what time will you be done? Can I still come see the cats?”

On the phone, her voice was like a frantic cat—claws out, reaching for a little fish that someone else was about to snatch away. When she couldn’t reach it, her anger turned into a wronged little demand.

Liu Qianxiu asked calmly, “Are you eating alone?”

“…Yeah.” Mu Wan huffed. She frowned. “You still haven’t answered my—”

“Want to come with me?” Liu Qianxiu asked.

Mu Wan’s pupils tightened slightly.

The heat in her body, like inflated cotton candy, suddenly got gently bitten through—then melted away on his tongue. Sweet. Gone.

“I can go?” Mu Wan asked.

Even on the phone line, her voice had softened.

Liu Qianxiu gave a light “Mm.” “I’ll take you.”

“Okay.”

The author has something to say: 

Liu Daochang: I don't know what to say.

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 13 Part 2

Incurable Chapter 13 Part 1

Each word was spoken slowly, the tone even—like the steady swing of a pendulum tapping against Mu Wan’s eardrums. And when it finally struck the hour—dong—her heart thumped hard.

The night was so quiet it felt soundless, until a meow came from the kitten room around the corner.

Her red lips moved as if she wanted to say something. Beside her, the man stood up. Her gaze lifted with him; she tipped her head back, eyes shimmering like ripples, Liu Qianxiu’s silhouette reflected inside.

“Awake,” Liu Qianxiu said, looking down at her.

Her throat moved; her heartbeat still hadn’t settled. Mu Wan smiled—a satisfied, sweet little smile, like someone who’d secretly stolen a piece of candy and hadn’t been caught.

She stood too. The red dress fell softly as she stepped out on her pale legs, walking toward the kitten room as she spoke.

“Let me see if Er Tong’s eyes have opened.”

Liu Qianxiu watched her go in. His gaze dropped—landing on the Dao De Jing she’d just set down.

Er Tong’s eyes had opened too—pale gold, just like Da Tou and Zhong Fen.

The other two had already opened their eyes fully. Er Tong and Zhong Fen’s eyes were rounder, while Da Tou had droopy little eyes—tiny, open, begging for milk, adorably miserable-looking.

Now that Er Tong’s eyes were open, Mu Wan was ready to leave.

She stood in the entryway, one hand braced against the cold wall as she slipped off the oversized slippers. Her narrow foot arched on tiptoe, the line continuing up into her calf—so white it almost hurt to look at under the red skirt.

She put on her heels. The heel clicked once against the floor—tap—then went silent along with the man’s question.

“How are you getting home?”

His gaze brushed the legs beneath her red skirt, faint but unmistakable. The clock already read 9:30. Liu Qianxiu’s expression stayed calm as he added evenly.

Mu Wan stood at the entry. The main lights in the living room were still off; only the low table lamp glowed weakly. The man stood backlit—tall and straight, his silhouette sharp, his features clean and defined.

“By taxi,” Mu Wan answered. She pulled out her phone and checked the time. The screen lit her face, and her small face wore a troubled look.

“It’s hard to get a cab right now,” she said.

Before she could finish, a figure moved toward her, shadowing her completely. Mu Wan looked up—the phone light brightened the man’s face. He’d already changed his shoes.

“I’ll take you,” he said.

“Yesterday he drove me home.” Mu Wan found a spot by the city wall and sat down, flicking open the prop paper fan in her hand to cool herself.

She was still in costume—wide sleeves, but cinched at the waist, and the layered collar sealed tight, not a breath of air getting through.

It was at least thirty-five degrees. Sweat poured off her. She’d just finished a fight scene, and the assistant director wouldn’t let her change yet—said they had to show the director first, confirm it worked, otherwise they’d have to shoot it again.

“Holy—Mu Wan, you’re insane. So? So?? How was it? Daozhang Liu’s… bed skills—” Lin Wei was so excited she practically shrieked.

“Nothing happened.” Mu Wan snapped her fan shut, lifted her sleeve to wipe sweat away, replaying last night in her mind. Her lips curved as she kicked a small stone.

“He just drove me home.”

“…He drove you home, and you didn’t invite him in to sit for a bit?” Lin Wei pressed, barely containing herself.

“Nope,” Mu Wan said. “He has to sleep at ten. After he dropped me off, I sent him off.”

Lin Wei: “……”

Single by sheer talent.

Still, Lin Wei understood. She wasn’t like Mu Wan. Mu Wan cared about emotional intimacy; physical intimacy had to come naturally after the emotional part reached a certain point.

“Okay then—any other progress?” Lin Wei switched tactics. “Did you figure out whether Daozhang Liu likes you?”

Mu Wan fanned her bangs, a breeze finally cooling her heat a little. She thought of Liu Qianxiu’s face under the lamp and said, “Yesterday, I asked him if he likes living alone. He asked me why. I said because he’s always lived alone.”

She paused at the key part, clearly smiling. Lin Wei was dying.

“And what did he say?!”

“Oh.” Mu Wan snapped back to it, her ears burning slightly. “He said: Right now, in this moment, there are two people.”

Lin Wei got goosebumps from head to toe, and her brain helpfully supplied Liu Qianxiu’s calm, aloof face saying it.

“Mu Wan! Come back for a retake!” the assistant director yelled.

“Okay!” Mu Wan stood, dusted off the mud, and told Lin Wei, “I don’t know what he meant, but I feel like I like him even more. Gotta shoot—bye.”

She hung up.

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Continue reading Incurable Chapter 13 Part 1

Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 240

~ GIVE BACK TO THE PEOPLE ~ 

“Lord Li is flattering me. Actually, I have other thoughts in my mind. I only hope you don’t laugh at me when I say it.” Mu Yunyao lowered her head slightly and smiling a little more nervously.

“Please speak, Miss Mu.” 

“During my stay in Jingling City, my mother and I have come into contact with many madams and ladies from various families. They are very kind-hearted and take great care of us. Previously, my adoptive mother and I were discussing the Laba porridge festival. Many madams regret that they were unable to participate in the festival. This time around, we can consider it as having a meaningful act of kindness to the entire Jingling City. If it is feasible, could Lord Li call for more people to participate in it?”

Li Munian’s eyes moved and quickly thought about it: “Miss Mu is indeed intelligent. If more people participate in it, it would be a fortunate thing for the people of Jingling City!”

Mu Yunyao nodded her head. “It’s good that Lord Li doesn’t think I’m doing whimsical. I’ll have to trouble Lord Li to manage this matter. For Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo, I’ll follow Lord’s arrangements.”

“Alright, I’ll give you all the credit.”

“Everything was arranged by Lord Li. I just paid some silver coins, so you can’t consider it a big deal.”

After Li Munian and Mu Yunyao finished talking about their proper business, Lady Zhou asked Mu Yunyao to have dinner in the mansion before going back. She had refused it as the reason to go home and pack up her things. Lady Zhou ordered someone to send Mu Yunyao home. After Mu Yunyao had left, she couldn’t help but praise, “If Mu Yunyao hadn’t come from too low a family background, I would even want to bring her to the Zhou family. With her intelligence and disposition, she will definitely be of great help to the family.”

Li Munia let out a chuckle, “You think that her background is too low, but who knows if she might be looking down on the Zhou Family? Miss Mu has quite an interesting mind.”

Lady Zhou raised her brows. “Master, what do you mean by that?”

“Madam, please don’t be angry. It’s not that I look down on my father-in-law’s family. But when I look at Mu Yunyao’s every word and action, I don’t think she’s a person from the pool. Why does Madam think that she want to hurriedly give back to the people of Jingling City before she left?”

Lady Zhou’s eyes moved. “… … …This was … if you want to make a name for yourself, why don’t you give the Su family a bad impression?”

“During this time, the Emperor had suppressed the Li family, and the Su family is very proud” Li Mu Nian smiled and nodded as admitting it. “I will find someone to discuss now. If it’s too late, I can sleep in the study room. Madam doesn’t have to wait for me. Mu Yunyao wanted to light the fire, so I’ll add two sticks of firewood and pour a ladle of hot oil for her...,”

In the following time, many ordinary people found that the entire Jingling City seemed to be bustling with activity. Mu Yunyao united with other families to donate silver, and the total amount reached one hundred and fifty thousand silver taels.

Li Munian was also a courageous person. He did not use all the silver to buy grain and distribute it to the people. Instead, he used a portion of his silver taels to build water canals, repair rivers, rebuild the streets, and rebuild the charity bureau ..… All kinds of good deeds causing the entire Jingling City to appear prosperous and flourishing, as though the future is full of infinite vitality.

When the commoners heard the news, they rushed to tell each other, especially Mu Yunyao, who had donated a hundred thousand taels of silver. Previously, they had thought that her Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Luo was too eye-catching, but now that they knew she had taken out all the silver she had earned in a year, even the envious peers could not help but raise their thumbs and praise.

Wen Mama and the others stood next to Bu Xian Luo’s window and allowing them to see the entire Su family clearly from here.

In front of the Su family’s residence, many people brought over fruits and vegetables. They quietly placed them at the door and paid their respects before leaving. Some people even tied some hens in baskets and left them at the door.

Liu Mama, who had accompanied Wen Mama, had an unfriendly look in her eyes. “This Miss Biao really knows how to win a good reputation. In terms of reputation alone, I’m afraid that even Eldest Madam will be slightly inferior.”

Wen Mama turned around and glanced at her. Liu Mama was the person beside the Eldest Madam. Although she couldn’t be considered a confidant, she still had quite a bit of trust in her and had some face in the Su family. “What is the comparison between the two of them?”

The corner of Liu Mama’s mouth rose. “Indeed. It’s really nothing similar! One was a phoenix flying in the sky, while the other was pheasant plowing on the ground, which is different from the root.”

Wen Mama shut her eyes and didn’t say anything.

Batches after batches of food had been sent into the Jingling City. Many of the surrounding cities had shocked as well. It was unknown just how many people were envious of the people of Jingling City!

Over the past year or so, the entire Jingling City has undergone tremendous changes. The women in Jingling City have learned the best embroidery skills, and they can earn two taels of silver with a slight movement of their needlework. With the support of Ni Yun Fang and Bu Xian Lou, the men have frequent business contacts. Even hard-working men earn more than ten cents a day than other places.

When Mu Yunyao heard that someone had placed something in front of the Su family’s residence, she immediately wrote a sign and hung it up. She hoped that the people would not be so polite, but it didn’t work. The people still kept putting things at her door.

Mu Yunyao thought about it carefully and then asked people to gather the things together and put them in Jin Xiu Garden. She was only waiting for the day when she would give these things back to the people of Jingling City. She will make these things into food so that more people could benefit from it.

After hearing this, ordinary people even more moved. Many people specially delivered the items to Jin Xiu Garden and begged Steward Qin to accept them, saying that they would also contribute to Jingling City’s people. Many merchants also rushed over, the status of merchants was not high, and they were considered unwelcome in the past. After Mu Yunyao had done many good deeds for the people, the people’s attitude towards the merchants had changed a lot. The merchants naturally returned the favor, hoping to earn some good reputation for themselves.

Mu Yunyao didn’t decide on her own accord. She recorded down the person who wanted to donate the silver and passed the name list over to Li Munian.

Li Munian was not a pedantic person, and he didn’t mean to look down on the merchants at all. After he knew about it, he even made the government announce a notice to commend the merchants who took the initiative to offer silver. The merchant who went to deliver the silver just a moment ago had almost trampled on the threshold of the government office.

Li Munian received nearly 40 thousand taels of silver again. After making up 200,000 silver, he used some of it to buy food. The other part was written as a notice and was posted on the wall at the government office’s gate, stating that the remaining silver was for future emergency use. The weather in Jingling City was smooth sailing. If he used it now, it would be like icing on the cake of the ordinary people. However, if it was a year of disaster, these silver taels could save countless lives.

In order to prevent the people from thinking over much, he wrote down the items for the silver taels in detail. He also explained what kind of things they would buy in the future, then posted a notice to inform the entire city.

The commoners were not greedy. After hearing this, they think it is very reasonable, and not many people oppose it.

After preparing for nearly half a month, July 20th, a drizzle had fallen in the morning. After the sky had cleared, the breeze was gentle, and the weather was surprisingly fresh. Jingling City’s people took to the streets one after another and concentrated on several streets near Bu Xian Luo.

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Continue reading Pampered Poisonous Royal Wife Chapter 240