Book Synopsis
Book Tags
Donation Rankings
Comment
0 Comments
You May Also Like
墨書 Inktalez
Gu Qianxian slowly opened her eyes, feeling a deep ache throughout her body, as if she had been run over by a cart.
She noticed the jade pendant on the bedside, a hint of confusion flickering in her eyes.
The next day, the sky began to lighten with the first light of dawn.
Creak—
The tightly shut door of Yan Yu Lou slowly opened, releasing a waft of languid air.
Xiao Yaohan stood at the entrance in plain clothes, tall and elegant, with a serious expression on his face.
Behind him followed several guards, clearly out of place in this establishment of pleasure.
A bawd rubbed her sleepy eyes and yawned as she stepped out, immediately spotting Xiao Yaohan.
Her eyes brightened; this man was dressed luxuriously and exuded an extraordinary demeanor, certainly not an ordinary young master.
When he spoke, the bawd's heart soared even higher.
"Madam, I am here to redeem someone."
Xiao Yaohan got straight to the point, his voice low and firm.
"May I ask which young lady you wish to redeem?"
The bawd plastered a beaming smile on her face, her tone obsequious.
"Second floor, room three."
Xiao Yaohan's words were concise yet carried an undeniable authority.
The bawd's eyes darted as she quickly caught on.
"Are you referring to Gu Qianxian?"
She asked cautiously, calculating in her mind.
Gu Qianxian was a cash cow in her hands, proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Countless men desired to experience her charms.
If it weren't for her steadfast virtue, she would have likely sold her for a good price long ago.
Now that someone wants to redeem her, they naturally intend to make a hefty profit.
"I'll have someone call for her right away."
The Bawd laughed heartily, quickly instructing a maid to fetch her.
Gu Qianxian had not slept a wink, her mind replaying the events of the previous night, filled with mixed emotions.
She did not know who that man was or why he had appeared in her room.
Upon hearing the Bawd's call, Gu Qianxian's heart sank.
Suppressing her unease, she stood up, adjusted her clothes, and slowly made her way downstairs.
"Gu Qianxian, you finally came out! This young master wants to redeem you; you truly are fortunate!"
As soon as the Bawd saw Gu Qianxian, she immediately put on a warm smile, taking her hand and speaking affectionately.
Gu Qianxian raised her eyes to look at the man standing nearby.
His figure bore some resemblance to the man from last night, but his features were now clearly illuminated by the morning light.
It was an exceptionally handsome face, with sharp brows and bright eyes, a straight nose, and thin lips pressed tightly together, exuding an air of coldness.
"Is it him?"
Gu Qianxian's heart jolted in surprise, yet she dared not confirm it.
She lowered her gaze to hide the complex emotions in her eyes.
Seeing Gu Qianxian silent, the Bawd assumed she was shy and smiled at Xiao Yaohan, saying:
"Young master, look here! This is Gu Qianxian, our Yan Yu Lou's top courtesan. She excels in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. She's also quite beautiful; if you redeem her, you won't regret it!"
She spoke incessantly while casting meaningful glances at Gu Qianxian.
Xiao Yaohan's gaze fell upon Gu Qianxian, and a hint of apology flashed in his eyes.
"Miss, I sincerely apologize for what happened last night."
He spoke in a low and earnest voice.
"I did not mean to offend; I was simply drugged, which caused me to... lose my composure."
Gu Qianxian's body trembled slightly.
She lifted her head and looked into Xiao Yaohan's sincere eyes, feeling her heart soften.
"I understand."
She spoke softly, her voice carrying a barely noticeable tremor.
"Young Master, there is no need to blame yourself; this is not your fault."
Though she was a woman of the world, she understood right from wrong.
Seeing her so reasonable, Xiao Yaohan felt even more guilty and wanted to make amends.
"Rest assured, Miss. Since I have said I will take responsibility for you, I will certainly do so."
His tone was firm as he gazed at her intently.
"I will take you away from here and give you a stable home."
The Bawd listened from the side, secretly delighted, and quickly interjected:
"You are truly a good person, Young Master. It is a blessing for Gu Qianxi to meet you!"
"However, about the ransom money..."
She rubbed her hands together, appearing hesitant.
Xiao Yaohan pulled out a stack of silver notes from his pocket and handed them to the Bawd.
"Here are five thousand taels. Is this enough?"
The Bawd took the silver notes, her eyes widening in surprise as she nodded eagerly.
"Enough, enough! You are truly generous, Young Master!"
She happily tucked away the silver notes and did not forget to remind Gu Qianxian:
"Gu Qianxi, you must serve the Young Master well in the future; do not forget your mother's kindness!"
Gu Qianxian said nothing, merely lowering her head in silence.
Xiao Yaohan took her hand.
"Let's go."
His palm was warm and dry, carrying a reassuring strength.
Gu Qianxian allowed him to lead her, following him out of Yan Yu Lou.
"Miss, my name is Xiao Yaohan."
Xiao Yaohan turned his head to look at her, his gaze gentle.
"What is your name?"
"Gu Qianxian."
She answered softly, her voice as melodious as a yellow oriole.
"Gu Qianxian..."
Xiao Yaohan murmured, committing the name to memory.
"I will take you back to the royal residence, give you a proper status, and ensure you live a stable life."
He promised again, his tone resolute.
"The royal residence?"
A ripple of emotion stirred in Gu Qianxian's heart.
Comment 0 Comment Count