Wife Doting Addiction：My Abducted Tsundere Husband - Chapter 100: Virtue and Good Fortune

Chapter 100: Virtue and Good Fortune

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio  Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

As she rushed down the stairs, Su Jiu’s expression became ugly. She dragged Hu Dapao out. “Follow your master to the Bodyguard Agency.”

When he saw Su Jiu’s appearance, Qiao An knew something had cropped up. He frowned and communicated to Hu Dapao, “Look after the chief. Make sure nothing happens!”

“All right,” Hu Dapao replied.

Ji Yuxian, who was on the rooftop, stood in front of the wooden rail and watched as a girl disguised as a man sped down the street in a horse carriage before vanishing in the distance.

The sound of footsteps approaching resonated behind him. A gentle voice echoed from about behind him,

“Eldest Young Master.”

Ji Yuxian turned his head and saw that it was the same man he had seen downstairs a while ago. The man was about 30 years old and wore a gray robe. His black hair was fastened with a jade hairpiece. His features were elegant, and he appeared scholarly.

He was bizarre. To think that there was a mountain bandit as strange as Qiao An.

However, if a woman like Su Jiu was able to become the chief, then there was nothing extraordinary about a scholar like Qiao An.

The Dragon Conqueror Gang was a mysterious group.

“Master Qiao, what is the matter?” Ji Yuxian’s had already restored his elegant and dignified demeanor as he spoke.

Qiao An walked forward and stood next to Ji Yuxian, his expression calm. He was neither servile nor overbearing as he conveyed sincerely, “I would first like to represent the Dragon Conqueror Gang, as well as our chief, to thank the Eldest Young Master.”

“Thank me for what?” Ji Yuxian smiled slightly.

“Our Dragon Conqueror Gang posed as members of the Su family and impersonated Ji Manor’s Young Mistress. We had even planned to rob Ji Manor. However, the Eldest Young Master did not report us to the authorities. You even allowed the chief to stay behind and taught her how to read. I have nothing but gratitude toward the Eldest Young Master.”

“Ji Yuxian tittered, his phoenix eyes shifting to look at Qiao An. “Aren’t you suspicious that I have other intentions?”

“No matter what the Eldest Young Master’s intentions are, the chief was still taught by you. This will be advantageous to her in the future and will do her no harm.” Qiao An’s tone was sincere.

The corners of Ji Yuxian’s lips curved up into a sneer. “But someone has yet to reciprocate the feelings.”

Qiao An hesitated in silence for a while, before asking slowly, “Is the Eldest Young Master interested in listening to our chief’s past in the Dragon Conqueror Gang?”

Ji Yuxian raised his eyebrows and nodded his head lightly. “Surely!”

“Our chief joined the Dragon Conqueror Gang when she was very young. She spent most of her childhood on the edge of a blade. Chang Huan was brought into the Dragon Conqueror Gang by the chief. Although he was older than the chief by two years, she still treated and protected him like a little brother. Chang Huan hadn’t been part of the organization for long, and the former gang leader of the Dragon Conqueror Gang ordered him to rob a passing businessman. When Chang Huan refused to go, the gang leader was so enraged he ordered his men to whip Chang Huan. The chief put herself between them and took 30 lashes in his place until her skin split open, and her flesh tore, but she refused to lose consciousness. It can be said that the chief gave Chang Huan’s life. From then on, the chief conspired to kill the gang leader and take the position for herself.”

Ji Yuxian frowned. His gaze was penetrating as he stared at Qiao An.

“Our chief grew up in the Dragon Conqueror Gang and was exposed to violence every day. She had never come into contact with girls and is not easily bothered by trifle things. In her heart, she doesn’t differentiate between males and females. As a person, she is loyal, headstrong, and unyielding. When faced with adversities, her first instinct is to destroy the enemy and never to surrender!”

The corners of Ji Yuxian’s lips curved into a smile as he recalled the time they were targeted by an assassin on the road to Jingzhou. Su Jiu directly killed her way into their headquarters.

Qiao An continued, “Our chief is an unbridled wild horse, and a piece of unpolished jade that has yet to be carved. If the Eldest Young Master wants to see the day where she finally stands out and shines with radiance, please do not give up now. And please do not be anxious in seeing results. She may not understand human affections, but her feelings are open. She would not be satisfied with being a mediocre and indulgent mountain bandit leader forever!”

Ji Yuxian’s eyes flashed, and he nodded his head faintly. “I understand what you are saying.”

Qiao An bent his waist down and bowed to JI Yuxian respectfully, “Thank you, Eldest Young Master.”

On the other hand, Su Jiu drove the carriage to the Bodyguard Agency. She entered through the front hall and walked into the rear courtyard.

Qiao An had made arrangements to renovate the place, and the estate was vastly different from before. The front hall was located in the anterior part of the building. A wooden door that had been painted black was fastened in place with copper screws. Above the door, a golden plate was carved with the words, “Qinglong Bodyguard Agency.”

Two majestic stone lions had been erected on both sides of the gate.

The front hall was designed like an ordinary bodyguard agency. A large banner with the word “loyalty” inscribed was above the main entrance.

The hall was furnished with folding screens, armchairs, and weapon shelves. It was adequately equipped.

On both sides were side doors that opened into the rear courtyard.

The spacious rear courtyard had been converted into a field for practicing martial arts. At that moment, a large group of people surrounded Hu Bazi and Zhang Mazi as they practiced martial arts. Behind each of them were 20 to 30 people, none willing to yield as they stared fiercely at their opponents. There were even two or three people who had been tackled onto the ground.

As Su Jiu watched these people, her blood started to churn. She leaped forward and landed in the middle of the crowd.

Taken by surprise, all the people bent one knee on the ground and voiced in unison, “Ninth Master!”

Su Jiu’s expression was nonchalant. “You may all rise. Today, your master will practice martial arts with you.”

The people got up and looked at Su Jiu emotionally.

This was their first time seeing Su Jiu since they descended the mountain. They wanted to see what the youth was capable of, such that even their Chief Cao had submitted to her.

Zhang Mazi was one of those who refused to acknowledge Su Jiu. When he had first accompanied Cao Datou to seek refuge with the Dragon Conqueror Gang, he had only been going along with the program. He sneered, “We have so many people. I’m afraid the chief might get hurt!”

Su Jiu turned her head and stared at him. A stern expression surfaced on her delicate face. She waved her hand and said, “You try!”

Zhang Mazi laughed, his tall and sturdy figure took a step forward, “How does the chief want to compete?”

He had not finished his sentence when he saw a shadow flash before his eyes. He had not even noticed how Su Jiu had made her move. His entire body was sent flying away, before landing on the ground with a thud. As he fell, dirt was scattered into the air and formed a cloud of dust.

“Ah!”

Zhang Mazi’s body was in agony as he rolled on the ground. He looked up. His eyes were filled with viciousness as he gave Su Jiu a death stare.

“One more time!” Su Jiu took a step forward and looked provocatively at him.

Zhang Mazi clenched his teeth and pushed himself up from the ground before throwing himself forward abruptly.

Bang!

The nine-foot-tall man was sent flying yet again. He had not even made a move and was already defeated!

The spectators all gasped in horror.

Hu Dapao was seated on a bamboo pole, usually used for training. He smirked as he watched Hu Bazi being put in a tight spot.

“One more time!” Su Jiu’s eyes were unusually cold.

Zhang Mazi spat out a mouthful of blood and staggered up before throwing himself forward again.

Bang!

…

Zhang Mazi was sent flying a total of five times. He lay on the ground, too injured to get up.

Su Jiu looked at the people who had been standing behind Zhang Mazi and said solemnly, “All of you, come at me together!”

Those people naturally did not have the guts to. They trembled as they looked up at Su Jiu, each retreating a step back.

Zhang Mazi lay on the ground and shouted with a hoarse voice, “All of you go up at once!”

The people glanced at each other before charging forward with a cry, their eyes filled with determination.

Su Jiu sprung up, kicked, punched, hacked…. A blurry mess ensued, and with the effort it takes to pour out a cup of tea, all the men were left lying on the ground, each battered and wailing.

Hu Bazi and the rest were overwhelmed. A look of respect surfaced on their faces as he brought his men forward and said with a foolish smile, “Ninth Master is indeed strong!”

Su Jiu dusted her hands off and walked towardsZhang Mazi and squatted in front of him. She said in a cold voice, “This is not the Qingfeng Gang. You had better stop scheming. If I ever catch any of the gang members conspiring, don’t blame for not showing mercy!”

Zhang Mazi clenched his teeth and lowered his head, “Yes!”

Su Jiu got up and instructed the crowd of people, “Continue to train. In two days, the Bodyguard Agency will open officially. After three rounds, your performance as a bodyguard will determine what grade you obtain. I don’t value relationships or connections. Whether you are a top-grade bodyguard or an ungraded worker will depend entirely on your abilities.”

As the crowd listened, they all became emotional at once. In the past, no matter how hard they trained, they were always bottom feeders in the Qingfeng Gang. But this time, their slate would be washed clean. Everyone had an equal to become a first-grade bodyguard without having to suck up to others.

“Thank you, Ninth Master!” The crowd exclaimed in unison.

Su Jiu nodded her head before taking her to leave.

She did not go very far and had instead leaped onto a training pole. She propped one leg up as she sat on top while casually observing the people training below.

Hu Dapao came over and looked up at Su Jiu, “Chief, is something bothering you?”

Usually, even when Su Jiu had fought ruthlessly, it was never to this extent.

Su Jiu shot him a glance and smiled, “You can read people’s minds! Go and get your master a jug of wine!”

“Okay.” Hu Dapao ran off and quickly returned with a jug of wine. He directly tossed the jug up.

Su Jiu quickly grabbed the jug and removed the cover. She raised her head and took a big gulp. Clear wine dripped down her delicate jawline as she vigorously wiped it off with her sleeves. “Refreshing!”

It was only when the sky was almost dark that Su Jiu returned to the restaurant.

It just so happened to be dinner time. The restaurant was packed with people and buzzing with conversations.

Qiao An was sitting behind the counter, collating the accounts when he raised his head and spotted Su Jiu. He immediately rushed forward to welcome her, “Chief, it’s late. You should return to Ji Manor!”

Su Jiu’s pair of bright eyes betrayed the fact that she was drunk. She said lightly, “No need, I’ll go upstairs to sleep. Nobody is to disturb me!”

She would return to Ji Manor tomorrow and bring the nanny and Chang Huan back. She wasn’t going to be the mistress of the Ji Manor any longer.

Qiao An did not scold her and only replied, “That’s fine. I’ll get Hu Dapao to bring you upstairs.’”

“No need.”

Su Jiu took a step and went to the second floor. “You guys continue minding your things. I’ll go up myself.”

At the end of the stairs leading to the second floor was a large dining room on the left. The bedrooms were on the right. Usually, Qiao An and Dapao would stay in one room, while the other was prepared for Su Jiu.

As she pushed the door open, it was pitch black. No lanterns were lighting up the room. Su Jiu lowered her head and leaned on the door as she listened to the clamor as people drank their wine. She was hungover, and her head was throbbing.

She extended her hand and patted her head a few times before stumbling to her bed.

The room was furnished simply. There were a bed and two sets of old-fashioned wooden armchairs. A table was placed beside the bed.

Su Jiu had just taken two steps when she froze in place and looked up. On the wooden chair under the window, the shadow of a person could be seen. His arms were propped up as he gazed outside the window. The moonlight had faintly reflected on his handsome face. The silver radiance fluctuated enchantingly. It was a captivating scene.

The man slowly turned his head over, his back against the light. A pair of dark and penetrating eyes looked silently at her.

Su Jiu stopped in place. In the darkness, two sets of eyes met each other. After a moment of silence, she asked coldly, “What are you doing here?”

Ji Yuxian got up and walked up to the water basin. He used the hot water to dampen a handkerchief before turning back. He then stretched out his hands to wipe her forehead, gently rubbing it.

Su Jiu subconsciously tried to retreat backward, but the man held on to her shoulders.”Don’t move!”

His fingers were robust as he massaged her with just the right amount of force. The warmth that radiated from the handkerchief seemed to have relieved her of her headache immediately.

“Are you more comfortable now?” The man moved his lips slowly as he asked tenderly.

In the darkness, Su Jiu lifted her head. Her eyes were full of clarity as she asked again, “Why haven’t you left?”

“Of course, I was here waiting for my wife so we can go home together.” Ji Yuxian’s handsome face carried a slight smile; his voice was low and soothing to the ear.

“I am not going back anymore. In the future, I will no longer be the Mistress of the Ji Manor.” Su Jiu’s eyes were distant, and her voice was cold.

The hand massaging her forehead froze. The handkerchief was thrown aside as his hands angled her chin such that she was now looking straight at him. “Su Jiu, do not throw a tantrum like a child!”

“I ‘m not. Humph.”

The man suddenly bent down and planted his lips on her. He did not deepen the kiss and instead sealed her lips with his so that she had no choice but to swallow her words.

In the shadows, he stood still, the depth of his eyes unreadable as he stared solemnly at her. It was only when Su Jiu started to struggle that he got up and buried her tightly in his embrace. They were plagued by a moment of silence before he opened his mouth and said in a low voice,

“Don’t make a fuss. It is my fault. I impulsively said some things without considering your feelings. I will not mind the affairs of your people. Also, regarding your calligraphy lessons, I shall not force you. You can learn whenever you feel like learning. Is that okay?”

The man’s voice gentle and reassuring.

Su Jiu rested on his chest as she momentarily lost her strength.

As she was pressed against his chest, a pair of hazy eyes, tinged with a hint of drunkenness, looked past his shoulders and gazed at the dusky moonlight beyond the window. That invigorating and refreshing moment calmed her troubled heart. It was just right.

The hand that was placed on his chest clawed at his robes.

“Ji Yuxian,” Su Jiu said blandly.

“Mm?” The man murmured seductively.

“Why are you so adamant about making me your mistress?” Su Jiu asked.

Since he had to put in so much trouble to teach her to become someone qualified to take the position as Ji Manor’s mistress, why didn’t he just find the more suitable lady?

That would have been much easier.

He was silent for a while before his amused voice rang in her ears, “It is because my wife is adept at martial arts. She can protect her husband and keep all those women at a safe distance. If it were someone else, she would have been bullied to death within two days. If your husband spent so much time trying to marry a wife, his earnings would decrease.”

“Pfft!” Su Jiu snorted and laughed softly.

Ji Yuxian slowly got up and pinched her cheeks with both his hands as his lips hooked up in a smile, “It’s late. Let’s go home.”

Su Jiu’s bright eyes sparkled, and she nodded her head slightly.

When Qiao An saw both Su Jiu and Ji Yuxian descend the stairs together, he smiled and sent them off at the door.

Su Jiu was entirely at ease and seemed to have forgotten the words she had said a while ago. She declared casually, “We are returning to the manor.”

“All right. Chief and Eldest Young Master take care!” Qiao An’s eyes seemed to carry a smile as he looked profoundly at Ji Yuxian.

Back at the manor, once they entered the gate, the guard said excitedly, “Young Mistress, you have returned from heaven.”

Su Jiu turned to look at Ji Yuxian, “Where did you ever find such a silly person?”

Ji Yuxian giggled, “Just like my wife. He dropped down from heaven!”

Su Jiu knew he was twisting her words sarcastically to mock her, but she was not bothered and instead continued walking to the manor.

Inside the rear courtyard, Ji Yuxian brought her directly with him into the main courtyard. “Don’t go back now. I need protection from my wife at night too.”

“I won’t follow you. Nanny and Chang Huan are still waiting for me,” Su Jiu declared.

“I will just send someone to let them know.” Ji Yuxian preposterously brought Su Jiu along with him to the Cloud Pavilion.

Along the corridor, lanterns had already been lighted and were flickering in the wind. In the distance, a thin figure could be seen kneeling at the bottom of the steps. Her body was trembling slightly.

Ji Yuxian’s gaze froze for a moment. It was Jin Mi!

She had been kneeling from the morning until now.

As Jin Feng saw his little sister, he felt sorry and forlorn. He said with a heavy voice, “Master, please quell your anger. Your servant will immediately take her away!”

After he finished speaking, Jin Feng walked forward in big strides. He extended his arm and grabbed the girl’s hand, “Mi’er, follow me back!”

Jin Mi’s figure swayed. She looked up at Jin Feng. Her complexion was pale as she asked with a hoarse voice, “Big brother, where is Master?”

Apart from kneeling for an entire day, she had also starved herself. The winter gale was bitingly cold. Her frail body appeared as though it would collapse at any moment.

“Mi’er, why must you suffer like this?” Jin Feng sighed helplessly.

“Big brother, please help me go tell Master that Mi’er was wrong. She does not dare to do it again. Please beg him not to chase Mi’er out!” Jin Mi locked onto Jin Feng’s legs and sobbed in agony.

Jin Feng knitted his brows, and said melancholically, “I’ll bring you home first!”

“No, I will not go back. I want to wait. He will forgive me!”

“Mi’er, don’t mess around!” Jin Feng swept past the tall shadow at the end of the corridor. He blocked Jin Mi’s line of sight before pulling her up.

“No, I will not go! I will wait here for him.” Jin Mi wailed and struggled as she refused to get up.

After his fruitless attempts, Jin Feng had no choice but to raise his hand and strike the girl behind her neck, before scooping the unconscious Jin Mi up.

Jin Feng walked in front of Ji Yuxian and lowered his heads, “Mi’er is accustomed to being insensitive. This subordinate would like to beg for forgiveness in her place.”

Ji Yuxian nodded his head slightly, “Bring her back home. Get a doctor to check her. Don’t let her fall sick!”

“Yes, thank you, Master!” Jin Feng bowed his head slightly and left quickly with Jin Mi in his arms.

Ji Yuxian led Su Jiu and continued heading towards his bedroom.

Su Jiu looked back and observed the departing figure of the siblings. She asked, “What did that maidservant do wrong?”

“Disobedient!” Ji Yuxian replied without a thought.

Su Jiu raised her eyebrows.

In the inner room, many documents were lying on the surface of his table, waiting for him to look through. Ji Yuxian picked one up and glanced at it before saying to Su Jiu, “Go and wash up first. I will get some servants to send supper over. You should eat a little before resting.”

“Mm!” Su Jiu replied. She turned past the folding screen and found a wooden door carved with intricate patterns. After giving it a push, hot air rushed out and brushed against her face. There was a jade bathing pool inside.

Su Jiu’s eyes lit up. There was such a plaything in Ji Yuxian’s room.

In the time it takes to burn a stick of incense, Ji Yuxian finished his work and entered the bathroom. As he pushed the door open, he was shocked.

The girl had removed her clothes and was only wearing her undergarments. She was happily floating in the pool.

In the dense mist, he could only see the girl’s bare back, which was smooth and fair. A thin band was wrapped tightly around her slim waist. Her curves were enticing and alluring.

Her long and slender legs kicked up the water in the pool, producing bubbles that seemed to form a bed of flowers. Just like mermaids in the legends, she was a fatal temptation.

Ji Yuxian was only wearing his inner clothes. He leaned on the side of the pool lazily, his black, silk-like hair dropped down and touched the surface of the water, forming ripples on the surface.

His body leaned to the side slightly as his arms rested on a thick, velvet carpet. His long legs were propped up, and his posture was shiftless. He held a carved silver flask in his hands and raised his head to gulp down the wine without using a cup. His demeanor was boundless and unrestrained.

After having a mouthful of wine, Ji Yuxian stepped into the water and walked toward the girl. He used both his arms to scoop her out of the water, before lowering his head to kiss her on her lips.

The man’s kiss was passionate and carried the ferocity of a sword. Besieging cities and conquering the land, wiping everything out, and leaving nothing behind. He took her lips and savored every part of its sweetness.

The bodies of the two people were entangled in the water. They were stuck tightly together, with no space left between them. The passionate kiss gradually turned into a sense of emptiness and desire. Ji Yuxian reached his hand under her undergarments and suddenly felt that piece of jade. His brows furrowed, and he pulled it off and threw it into the pool.

Su Jiu was shocked and came back to her senses. She reached out her hands and scooped the piece of jade back and protested in confusion, “Don’t throw it away!”

Ji Yuxian used a little bit of force and pulled Su Jiu to the side of the pool. He bent over and continued kissing her. He asked in a low and hoarse voice, “Is he important? Or am I more important?”

The heat potentiated the wine she had drunk in the afternoon. The smell of alcohol wafted over, and Su Jiu’s fair face blushed red. She was muddleheaded as she shook her head in a daze.

How could Ji Yuxian let her go, the heated kiss progressed further as he used one hand to support the girl’s tender body at her waist while using his other hand to unravel the band around his garments? Suddenly, Su Jiu’s body slipped out of his embrace like a fish, before disappearing into the water.

Ji Yuxian turned his body. His eyes were clouded and amused as he leaned lazily at the edge of the pool in waiting.

When he lifted his head again, the girl was already at the opposite end of the pool. In her hands was the piece of jade that he had flung away. She raised her legs and got out of the pool. With a wave of her hand, Ji Yuxian’s robe was thrown over her body, and a thick layer of mist covered her. She looked back and smiled slightly, “I’m going to sleep now. Eldest Young Master, please continue your bathe!”

Ji Yuxian’s beautiful eyes froze, what a seductress!

Ji Yuxian was taller than Su Jiu by a head. The robe fitted loosely on her body, but it still emphasized her slim and graceful figure. The girl turned her body and dragged the extra clothing from the robe behind her. Her bare feet stepped over the velvet carpet and walked gracefully out of the bathroom.

Early the next morning, Ji Yuxian was no longer at the room door when Su Jiu woke up. At the side, a fresh set of clothes was hung up in the mahogany closet.

Su Jiu wore the clothes and got out of bed. As she opened the door to leave, she saw Chang Huan standing outside the door; his stance looked as though he was about to push open the door. When he saw Su Jiu, his hand froze in mid-air as he stared blankly at her.

“What’s the matter?” Su Jiu asked.

Chang Huan had a pretty appearance and looked especially feminine. Dressed up as a girl, he seemed especially attractive. At that moment, his face showed traces of gloominess, and he looked straight at Su Jiu. It was as though he had something to ask Su Jiu, yet, found it difficult to say it out.

“What happened? Quickly tell me!” When she saw Chang Huan’s behavior, Su Jiu frowned and thought that something must have happened.

Chang Huan bit his lip, and hesitated for a moment before frowning, Boss, You… Did you sleep with Ji Yuxian?”

Su Jiu nodded her head, “Yes, we slept for a long time!”

Chang Huan’s eyes shook; his expression underwent a turn as he stared at her, stupefied.

“Didn’t you say that you will leave Ji Manor in the future and won’t continue being the Ji Manor’s Mistress? You… Do you like him?”

Su Jiu raised her eyebrows, “Leaving Ji Manor is something that will happen in the future. Whether I sleep with him or like him, does it even matter?”

Chang Huan stared blankly at her. His eyes seemed to still slightly. After a pause, he turned around and walked out; his parting figure appeared to carry an indescribable sense of loneliness.

Su Jiu giggled. It was so early in the morning, was he sleepwalking?

At that moment, two maidservants walked over. One held a copper basin in her hand. The other was carrying a mahogany tray with scented soap as well as a handkerchief. The two maidservants bowed respectfully, “This servant Mo Yu is here to help the Young Mistress wash up.”

Su Jiu nodded her head and went back into the bedroom. After washing up, the two servants combed her hair.

“Where is Ji Yuxian?” Su Jiu asked.

“Replying to the Young Mistress, Master wakes up at dawn every morning. He’s in his study now.”

Su Jiu was a little surprised. She did not think that such a wealthy man like Ji Yuxian would continue to work so hard.

“What time is it now?” Su Jiu asked.

“It’s a few hours before midday.” Mo Yu replied respectfully as she fastened an intricately carved jade hairpiece into her hair.

Su Jiu shifted her eyes and got up to leave.

The two servants hurried after her, “Young Mistress, where are you going?”

“To the study.”

“You haven’t had your breakfast yet!”

“Not eating!” Su Jiu said as she walked on. The moment she said the last word, her feet had already stepped out of the bedroom.

Outside the study room, Jin Feng was standing at the door. Inside, a servant called Qing Jun was grinding ink at the side.

Jin Feng did not announce her arrival and directly opened the door for Su Jiu.

When he saw that Su Jiu had come over, Ji Yuxian’s eyes flashed with surprise. He smiled slightly and asked, “Why has my wife come here?”

“To practice calligraphy. Why does the Master no longer want a student like me?” Su Jiu raised her eyebrows and laughed.

The corner of lips of Ji Yuxian’s lips revealed a subtle smile, his eyes shined as he looked at the girl. He asked lightly, “How could your husband refuse?’

Su Jiu walked over. She took the pestle from Qing Jun’s hand and said coolly, “Let me grind the ink!”

“Yes!” Qing Jun bowed and dismissed herself.

Next to Ji Yuxian was a chair that Su Jiu usually sat on. The parchment and writing instruments for calligraphy were all prepared beforehand. Su Jiu sat down to grind the ink. She was focused, her posture was upright, and she took on the appearance of an attentive student.

The corner of Ji Yuxian’s lips unconsciously hooked up into a smile as his head remained bent over to read his ledgers.

Su Jiu swept her sleeves up and picked up a brush. She started writing on the parchment earnestly, stroke by stroke diligently.

Old Yu made some tea and served it. When he saw of them getting along harmoniously, his head revealed an expression of appreciation as he bowed his head.

“Young Mistress, please have some tea.” Old Yu respectfully used both hands to serve Su Jiu tea.

“Thank you.” Su Jiu was indeed a little thirsty; she brought the cup up and took a sip. She frowned and placed the tea down.

“What’s the matter?” Ji Yuxian asked.

“What an awful taste!” Su Jiu lowered her head and casually commented. She felt like rinsing her mouth to rid it of the lingering taste of the tea.

Ji Yuxian laughed lightly. This was buxus tea, something that was hard to obtain even with a significant sum of money. When it came to her, she had casually thrown it out.

“Brew a different pot of tea!” Ji Yuxian was composed as he instructed.

“Yes, this old servant will immediately make a new pot of tea for the Young Mistress!, Old Yu hurriedly replied.

“No, change mine as well. Also, bring some candied sweets as well.”

Old Yu’s pupils shook a little. Up to then, Ji Yuxian only drank buxus tea. Yet, he had swapped out his tea because of the Young Mistress. Additionally, Ji Yuxian never allowed desserts and pastries to be placed in his study, yet this rule was broken today as well.

Old Yu didn’t say anything else and instead acknowledged the instructions before taking his leave. Very soon, he returned with two maidservants tailing him and placed the newly brewed Biluochun tea, as well as four platters of pastries and candied sweets onto the table.

After Old Yu and the servants took their leave, Ji Yuxian placed the desserts in front of Su Jiu, “Are you tired? Have something to eat before continuing.”

Su Jiu had not eaten breakfast and was feeling a little hungry. She took a piece of hazelnut pastry and stuffed it into her mouth. Her eyes, however, remained focused on the book. She pointed to a word and showed it to Ji Yuxian, “How do you pronounce this word?”

Ji Yuxian looked over and replied gently, “Qi”

“Qi Ren You Tian” Su Jiu read it out once and asked, “What does it mean?”

Ji Yuxian smiled as he explained, “A long time ago, there was a man from the Kingdom of Qi. He was consumed with the fear that the sky would fall. So, he spent every day in worry and anxiety. It refers to a person who is always worrying irrationally.”

Su Jiu giggled, “How silly!”

Ji Yuxian extended his ends and brushed the pastry crumbs off the corner of Su Jiu’s lips. He said tenderly, “Anyone who has a demon in his heart is silly!”

Hence, there is no need to be too occupied over people and matters. Once a heart demon enters your heart, it will only cause harm.

Su Jiu did not understand the profound meaning behind his words and continued looking at his books. When she thought of something else, she lifted her head and said,

“My bodyguard agency will be opening in two days. The things we discussed before, you better not go back on your word!”

The two of them had agreed that Su Jiu would accompany him to Jingzhou and ensure his safety. And when they returned, he would hand the Ji family’s merchandise to be exported over to her bodyguard agency.

Ji Yuxian’s phoenix eyes looked at her, his thin lips moved gently, “Rest assured, I’ve already given orders to Old Yu!”

Su Jiu immediately revealed a brilliant smile, “Thank you then!”

Suddenly, the sound of someone knocking on the door resonated. Old Yu walked in and reported, “Master, your nanny is here!”

Ji Yuxian slowed raised his head. His eyes are here incomprehensibly deep.

Naturally, this nanny wasn’t Su Jiu’s nanny. It was Ji Yuxian’s nanny, as well as Jin Feng and Jin Mi’s birth mother. Her family name was

Geng.

Madame Geng worked for the Ji Manor ever since Ji Yuxian was born, and she treated him like her son. When Ji Manor faced a crisis and the Ji family’s patriarch was imprisoned, Ji Manor was thrown into a mess. Madame Geng feared that Ji Yuxian would be harmed by evil schemes and stayed awake to guard his side. When the Ji family’s business competitor decided to stir trouble and incited the servants to make a commotion, they set fire to the manor in the middle of the night. They had ignited Ji Yuxian’s estate. Madame Geng did not care for her safety and plunged straight into the fire to carry Ji Yuxian out. Her back and hands were burnt, and she almost lost her life.

After the arson was investigated, one of the instigators who had escaped schemed to kill Ji Yuxian. It was Madame Geng who had rushed over and blocked the blade for him. Even though she wasn’t killed, it had stabbed into her heart and caused prolonged pain. Ji Yuxian also treated her like his mother and built an estate on the outskirts of Shengjing City. The estate had direct access to waters from the hot spring and was specially arranged for Madame Geng to nurse her injuries.

Ji Yuxian left Su Jiu to read on her own and walked out of the study room into the reception pavilion next door.

A middle-aged lady in her forties was seated inside the pavilion. She wore honey-colored blouse embroidered with satin clouds, as well as an elegant green brocade skirt. Her black hair had been groomed meticulously, and no loose strand could be seen. Two simple jade hairpieces fastened her hair in place, and her face was gentle and kind. When she saw Ji Yuxian enter, she immediately got up and greeted respectfully, “This old servant greets the Eldest Young Master.”

Ji Yuxian walked forward and supported her up as he said with a smile, “I’ve already mentioned this before, the nanny does not need to be so courteous.”

Madame Geng looked fondly at Ji Yuxian, and smiled slightly, “Thanks to Master’s blessings, this old servant has been able to nourish her health. This servant is extremely grateful, but the rules should still be followed.”

“Nanny already knows this, I have never seen you as a servant. There is no need for such formality!” Ji Yuxian eyes displayed a form of gentleness rarely seen. He supported Madame Geng as she took her seat and personally poured her a cup of tea.

Madame Geng held a silk handkerchief in her hands and coughed before saying with a smile, “When you got married, I had initially planned to visit. But it just so happened that my chest pain had flared up quite severely over those two days, and after taking my medications, I felt tired and weak. I had watched you grow up, and I even if I had to crawl, I would have still made my way over. But Feng’er told me that on such a happy occasion, you would feel saddened if you saw me in a state of agony. So, he scolded me not to come over. I thought that what he said was reasonable and could only wait at home for the servants to give me an account of what happened that day.

Ji Yuxian’s eyebrows frowned slightly, “You were seriously unwell, why didn’t you send someone to let me know?”

“There’s no use telling you. It’s an old injury, and every winter, it would often flare up. Fortunately, Doctor Gu’s medicine has been effective and can relieve some of the pain.”

“Since you’ve come today, I’ll get Doctor Gu to check your pulse and prescribe more medicine.” Ji Yuxian said with concern.

Madame Lee smiled slightly, “There’s no need to trouble him. I’m the most familiar with my own body. Even though I’m sick, I will not die so soon. After all, I’m still waiting to see your children!”

Ji Yuxian’s eyes curved into a smile, his handsome face was tender. As he heard what his nanny said, an image of Su Jiu’s delicate and brilliant smile suddenly flash in his mind. That girl didn’t even understand the matters between a man and a woman. Naturally, she did not know how it was like to give birth to children. He imagined the scene to be one where chickens and dogs would be sent flying in shock.

Would they have children?

Madame Geng saw that Ji Yuxian in a daze and was unsure of what he was thinking. She lowered her eyes and coughed lightly, before saying kindly, “Master, the reason I came today was to seek forgiveness.”

Ji Yuxian shifted his eyes away, his eyes were bright, “Jin Mi’s matter has nothing to do with a nanny.”

“No, it was I who spoilt her. It was my poor parenting that causes her to disregard the rules.” Madame Geng sighed and said sorrowfully, “But still, I only have this one daughter. Last night, when Mi’er was brought back by Feng’er, she refused to eat and drink till now. She kept crying, saying that she wanted to meet Master. My heart cannot take this.

Ji Yuxian remained silent as he poured more tea, his expression composed.

ke ke ke!

ke ke ke ke!

Madame Geng coughed successively, she lowered her head and covered her mouth. Her expression looked as though she was in pain. The maidservant behind her quickly took out a jade bottle and placed a small round pill into Madame Geng’s mouth, while using one hand to pat her back gently.

Ji Yuxian placed the teacup down and said lightly, “Nanny, this time, I made Jin Mi leave the Ji Manor because I realized that she had already reached marriageable age. It’s time to find her a family to marry into and settle down.

Madame Geng lowered her head and hid her eyes, which flashed with disappointment. When she lifted her head, her pale face displayed a gentle smile once again, “I understand. You also watched her grow up and are doing this for her good. Only, she has served Master since she was young. Just like this old servant, she has long considered Master to be a family. By forcing her to leave so suddenly, she couldn’t help but fall ill. For this lowly one’s sake, please let her stay for a while longer until she thinks things through. This old servant is begging you!”

As she said this, Madame Geng got up and attempted to kneel in front of Ji Yuxian.

Ji Yuxian stopped her with one hand, “Why is nanny doing this?”

“I beg Master to take pity on this mother’s love for her child.”

Ji Yuxian supported her up, “I’ll just give you a promise then. Nanny does not have to do this!”

“This servant has troubled Master!” Madame Geng sighed.

“That’s not true. I will always remember the grace that nanny has shown me. Regarding all these small matters, nanny does not have to use such heavy words.”

“Yes, this servant represents Mi’er to thank Master!”

After the matter was concluded, Madame Geng’s face relaxed significantly. She smiled respectfully, “This time, I came for three reasons. First was to visit Master, the second was to seek forgiveness for my daughter, and the third was to have a look at your Young Mistress and greet her.”

Ji Yuxian nodded his head lightly. “Sure, I’ll bring nanny over!”

Inside the study, Su Jiu was in the middle of writing. When she saw Ji Yuxian bring a lady in, she raised her head and looked over in bewilderment.

Madame Geng respectfully bowed her body, “This old servant, Madam Geng Jin, greets Young Mistress!”

Su Jiu raised her eyebrows and looked at Ji Yuxian in confusion. Her eyes asked, who is that?

Ji Yuxian grinned, “This is my nanny. Because her health isn’t that good, she is living in an estate on the outskirts of the city. She visited the manor today to greet my wife.”

Su Jiu immediately stood up and walked over. She smiled politely, “Hello, nanny!”

Ji Yuxian looked at Su Jiu’s generous and polite appearance and couldn’t help but smile slightly.

Madame Geng hastily shook her head and panicked, “This servant doesn’t dare! This servant is here to greet Young Mistress, as well as to ask the Young Mistress for forgiveness. My daughter was ignorant. If she has offended Young Mistress in any way, I beg Young Mistress to look past it!”

Su Jiu’s eyes turn, and she suddenly understood. This woman was Jin Mi’s mother.

“It’s nothing much. I naturally will not make a fuss.” Su Jiu thought that she was referring to the many times Jin Mi was hostile toward her.

“As expected, Young Mistress is born of a noble family. She is like a celestial, virtuous, and noble. You are a good fortune to both our Master and the entire Ji Manor,” Madame Geng praised her with a smile.

Virtuous?

Blessing?

Ji Yuxian’s thin lips slipped into a smile as he turned his face to look out of the window.

Su Jiu shot him a glance, before nodding her head sincerely with a smile, “Yes, yes.”

Pfft! Ji Yuxian could no longer stop himself and burst out in laughter.

Madame Geng also lowered her eyes and smile. She said gently, “Since this old servant has already visited, I will not disturb Young Mistress any longer and take my leave first!”

Ji Yuxian held back his laughter, “I will get Jin Feng to send you back!”

“All right, Master and Young Mistress should stay behind. This old servant will come to visit another day!” Madame Geng coughed once, before standing up and taking her to leave.

Once Madame Geng walked out, Su Jiu turned her eyes and stared at the man. She crossed her arms and said with a fierce expression, “Eldest Young Master Ji, were you making fun of me just now?”

Ji Yuxian wrapped his hands around her waist and carried her up. He walked up to the table and placed her on it.

The man propped both arms on the table, his eyes rippled and burned like a fire. The wicked grin on his face had a hint of mischief as he stared evilly at the girl who was locked in his embrace.

“Then my wife should tell me. Your virtue and my good fortune. Where are they?”

Su Jiu raised her head to look at him. She blinked guiltily and said, “I wasn’t even the one who said it.”

The girl’s black and white eyes turned, her long lashes fluttered and tickled the man like a feather. His chest melted, and the only thing that remained in his mind was her countenance that was filled with vitality. He took a deep breath and bent his head over to plant a kiss on her delicate eye. He turned with some urgency and kissed the bridge of her nose and her cheeks. His voice was seductive as he said in a hoarse voice,

“Su Jiu…”