Li Yunwu stirred, her heavy eyelids fluttering open. The dim light of the room blurred her vision, but as it sharpened, she saw Bao Yu, slumped and fast asleep, hunched awkwardly over the bed. Dark circles shadowed his face, a testament to the long sleepless hours he had the night prior.
Before Li Yunwu could get out of bed, the creak of the door made her freeze. The eunuch stood in the doorway, his expression severe, his thin lips twisted into a deep scowl. His piercing gaze shifted from Bao Yu to her, making her stiffen instinctively.
The silence was suffocating, and Li Yunwu quickly slipped out of bed, bowing deeply. "This one apologizes for being an inconvenience. This one will depart now," she said softly, her voice steady despite the nervous tightness in her chest.
The eunuch scoffed, the sound cold and dismissive. Without another glance at her, he turned his attention to the young lord still sleeping soundly on the bed. Li Yunwu took the opportunity to hurry out, her bare feet padding softly on the floor as she slipped back to the servant quarters.
As she stepped into the small, cramped space, her sister's voice rang out sharply. "Da Jie, where have you been?" Li Shizi marched over, grabbing her arm with a firm grip. Her brows were furrowed, worry etched into her features. "Mama and I have been looking everywhere for you!"
"I'm sorry," Li Yunwu said quickly, lowering her gaze. She hesitated, rubbing the large bump on her forehead. "I was… taken to the medical ward."
Li Shizi's eyes widened in alarm. "How long have you been gone?" she asked, her tone a mix of concern and exasperation as they walked to their sleeping quarters.
"I don't know… a sichen?" Li Yunwu guessed uncertainly, though doubt flickered across her face.
"A sichen? You've been gone for three!" Li Shizi exclaimed, throwing her hands up.
Li Yunwu frowned, her mind racing. Three sichens?That can't be right. I worked through most of the laundry before…She trailed off, her thoughts clouded and hazy.
Before she could dwell on it, Li Shizi broke her train of thought with a grin. "Guess what? We go home tonight," she said, her excitement bubbling over as she began gathering her belongings. "Are you excited to see him?" she teased, nudging her sister playfully.
Li Yunwu's cheeks flushed. "It's been ten days already," she admitted, unable to hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "I can't wait to see him. Let's go!"
The sisters bid their mother farewell, hoping to see her return soon as well. Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of amber and violet. At the foot of their family's home, Yin Huli crouched patiently, his elbows resting on his knees and his chin propped on his hands. Beside him, Li Yang Mei sat cross-legged, the two of them having waited all day.
The sound of approaching footsteps made Yin Huli's ears twitch. His flaming amber eyes lit up as recognition dawned. In an instant, he bolted toward the sound, his heart leaping with anticipation.
When his eyes met Li Yunwu's, he broke into a wide grin, scooping her up effortlessly. He spun her around, her laughter ringing out like music against the quiet evening. "I missed you," he said softly, his voice filled with warmth. As he set her down, he leaned in, pressing a subtle kiss to her temple.
Li Yang Mei arrived moments later, out of breath and clutching her knees. "Da Jie, Er Jie!" he gasped, his face flushed from the sprint.
Li Yunwu embraced her siblings tightly, a smile lighting up her face. "I missed you both so much," she said, her voice full of affection.
After a brief reunion, the sisters went to report to their father. Once their duties were done, Yin Huli guided Li Yunwu to their room. He opened a large chest, revealing its contents: precious jewels, dragon pearls, silver coins, and ornate trinkets that glittered under the lantern light.
"These are for you," he said softly, his voice brimming with pride. "Your father will definitely accept this as dowry."
Her eyes widened as she took in the sight, her heart swelling with emotion. "Yin Huli… this is too much," she whispered, but the way she clung to his arm spoke volumes of her gratitude.
Li Yang Mei and Li Shizi marveled at the glittering treasures. Precious stones and dragon pearls reflected the warm candlelight, casting dancing shadows on the walls. Their awe-filled gasps broke through the soft murmur of conversation between Li Yunwu and Yin Huli.
"I'm sorry you had such a difficult time," Yin Huli said, his voice heavy with frustration. "If I had been there—" His words faltered, anger tightening his jaw.
Li Yunwu shook her head gently, reaching up to press a finger against his lips. "It's over now," she whispered, her calm voice soothing his rising ire.
He scoffed lightly, turning his head away, but the corners of his mouth betrayed him. A mischievous smile curled on his lips. Without a word, he reached behind him and produced a large lacquered box, its surface carved with intricate floral patterns. He handed it to her with a flourish.
"What is this?" Li Yunwu asked, her brows lifting in curiosity as she opened the box. Her breath caught when she saw the contents. Inside was a wedding robe of vibrant crimson silk, embroidered with delicate golden patterns of phoenixes and peonies.
Li Shizi and Li Yang Mei gasped in unison, leaning closer to admire the craftsmanship. Li Shizi ran her fingers over the fabric, marveling at its softness. "It's so beautiful," she breathed.
"Put it on for me," Yin Huli murmured in Li Yunwu's ear, his voice low and coaxing. The heat of his words sent a flush creeping up her neck. She hesitated, holding the robes close to her chest.
"A husband mustn't see his wife in her wedding robes before the ceremony," Li Shizi interjected, giving Yin Huli a scolding look. "It's bad luck."
Yin Huli pouted like a scolded child, his amber eyes locking onto Li Yunwu with a pleading gaze. She sighed softly, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Very well," she relented.
Li Shizi beamed and ushered her sister behind a partition, carefully helping her into the robes. The silk glided over Li Yunwu's skin, its vibrant color glowing in the dim light. Li Shizi even dabbed a touch of red rouge on her lips, completing the bridal look.
When Li Yunwu stepped out, Yin Huli froze, his breath hitching. His fiery gaze roamed over her, taking in every detail. Her ink-black hair cascaded loosely down her back, the crimson of her lips highlighting the emerald green in her eyes. The golden belt cinched her waist, accentuating her graceful figure.
He stood and crossed the room in a few strides, wrapping her in a firm embrace. "My wife is beautiful and virtuous," he murmured, his lips brushing against her forehead. A teasing glint appeared in his eyes as he whispered, "I might not be able to contain myself tonight."
"Yin Huli!" Li Shizi snapped, covering Li Yang Mei's ears. She shot him a sharp glare.
Li Yunwu laughed softly and placed her hands on Yin Huli's shoulders. "Alright, let me change back." But before she could step away, she rose onto her tiptoes and kissed him deeply.
Yin Huli's arms tightened around her, and before she could react, he swept her off her feet. With a playful grin, he bolted out of the room, her startled laughter ringing out behind them.
"Yin Huli! Put her down!" Li Shizi's voice echoed furiously as she chased after them.
"I really can't contain myself," Yin Huli rasped, his steps quickening as he carried Li Yunwu into the darkening forest.
"You've gotten Er Jie all worked up," Li Yunwu scolded, though her laughter betrayed her amusement. "She's probably worried sick!"
The trees grew denser as they approached a secluded temple. Its walls were cloaked in moss, and vines twisted around every crevice. Yin Huli's fox fire ignited in his hand, casting a gentle glow that illuminated their path.
Inside, the temple was a ruin of its former self. A broken statue stood in the center, nearly swallowed by overgrown plants. Time and nature had claimed the structure, leaving it a shadow of what it once was.
"This is my birthplace," Yin Huli said, his voice tinged with both pride and sorrow. "Over a thousand years ago, it was a fox den. My family lived here in peace… until humans discovered us. Most of the fox demons were killed and pelted for their fur. I was the only one who escaped."
Li Yunwu's hand tightened around his, her eyes filled with unspoken sorrow.
"I returned," he continued, his fox fire casting his face in an ethereal glow, "and made them pay for what they did." His gaze softened as he looked at her. "But that's in the past now. All that matters is that I've built a future… with you."
Li Yunwu smiled, resting her head against his chest. "We'll build it together."
Under the glow of flickering fox fire, they performed the sacred rites of their secret marriage. They bowed three times—once to the heavens and the earth, once to honor their parents, and finally, to one another. Each bow carried weight, their unspoken vows binding them in the quiet solitude of the ruined temple.
With their union sealed, Yin Huli and Li Yunwu departed back to the humble hut nestled in the shadow of the forest. The moon hung low, casting silver beams through the branches. Outside the hut, Li Shizi stood guard, her figure illuminated by the soft glow of a single lantern. Her face was set in a deep scowl as she caught sight of the approaching couple.
"Yin Huli is truly shameless," she muttered, crossing her arms over her chest. Her sharp gaze fell on him as he carried Li Yunwu effortlessly in his arms, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
Before he could speak, Li Yunwu intervened, her tone gentle. "Er Jie, nothing happened," she reassured her sister, her eyes soft and tender. "Yin Huli just wanted to show me something."
"Hmph," Li Shizi huffed, her suspicion unabated as she stepped aside to let them pass. Yin Huli finally set Li Yunwu down on the ground, his hand lingering at the small of her back.
"Nothing happened?" he teased, his amber eyes gleaming as he licked his lips playfully.
"Yin Huli!" Li Yunwu swatted his arm, her cheeks flushing.
Li Shizi rolled her eyes, muttering something under her breath as she followed them into the hut.
Inside, the air was bitterly cold, the night wind slicing through the cracks in the wooden walls like a knife. The thin blankets did little to shield them from the icy drafts, and their breaths came out in pale clouds, visible in the dim light.
Yin Huli, noticing the shivers wracking their bodies, knelt down and summoned his fox fire. The ethereal blue flames sparked to life in his palms, casting a warm glow that immediately softened the chill.
"Come closer," he said, his voice low and soothing. His tails unfurled, their soft fur wrapping snugly around Li Yang Mei and Li Shizi like a protective cocoon.
Li Shizi gave a reluctant grunt, but her shoulders relaxed as the warmth seeped into her. "I suppose you're useful for something," she muttered, though her tone lacked its usual sharpness.
Li Yang Mei giggled, snuggling closer to the warmth. "Your tail is so soft, Yin Huli!"
Yin Huli chuckled, his golden eyes flicking to Li Yunwu as he pulled her closer. "And for my wife," he murmured, his arms wrapping tightly around her, "I'll keep her the warmest."
Li Yunwu leaned into his embrace, resting her head on his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat soothed her, and she allowed herself to relax despite the cold.
"You really are shameless," Li Shizi muttered, though there was no bite to her words this time.
Yin Huli smirked. "Shameless? No. I'm just a devoted husband."
At the Bao Estate, Bao Yu paced the sprawling halls, his frustration mounting as the day turned into evening. He had spent hours searching for Li Yunwu, only to be met with silence and confusion from the servants. By the time he confronted the eunuch, his desperation was evident.
"Gong Gong," Bao Yu's voice was strained, his eyes burning with determination. "Did you say something to make her leave?"
The eunuch raised a brow, feigning indignation. "Young Lord, it pains me that you think so lowly of me. I have already told you—she left of her own accord."
Bao Yu's jaw tightened. "Then where is she?" he demanded. "I've searched everywhere, and no one seems to know who she is or where she's gone."
The eunuch remained unbothered, placing a hand on Bao Yu's shoulder in an attempt at comfort. "This is a sign from the heavens, Young Lord. Perhaps it is time you forget about her."
"Forget her?" Bao Yu's voice rose, brushing the eunuch's hand away as anger flared in his chest. "I love her."
The eunuch gasped, clutching his chest dramatically as if Bao Yu's words had physically struck him. "Young Lord! Your father would never approve of such a thing!"
"I care little for his approval," Bao Yu snapped, his voice filled with defiance. "She will be my bride, no matter what he says."
Turning sharply on his heel, Bao Yu strode away, his heart heavy but resolute. He didn't have time to argue further; his father had summoned him to the study.
When he entered his father's study, Bao Yu bowed deeply, his movements stiff and formal. Lord Bao sat in his imposing high-backed chair, the room filled with the scent of incense and the quiet crackle of the brazier. He waved the guards and servants away, leaving them alone.
"I've heard troubling rumors," Lord Bao began, his voice cold and steady. "You were seen running around with a girl in your arms. Is that true?"
Bao Yu straightened, his gaze unwavering. "Father, that is correct."
"And this girl," Lord Bao continued, his brows furrowing. "She's a mere servant, is she not?"
"That is also correct," Bao Yu admitted, though his tone was tinged with weariness.
Bao Yu met his father's gaze, his voice steady despite the weight of the moment. "Father, I wish to take her as my wife."
Lord Bao slammed his hand on the armrest, his voice rising with anger. "Absolutely not!"
Bao Yu inhaled sharply, his fists clenched beneath his robes. "I thought Father wished for me to take a wife," he said, his voice sharp with restrained defiance.
"Yes," Lord Bao retorted, his tone dripping with disdain. "A wife. Not a pleasure doll."
"Li Yunwu is no pleasure doll," Bao Yu shot back, his voice trembling with fury.
Lord Bao stood, clasping his hands behind his back as he began to pace. "Gong Gong described this girl to me," he said, his tone cruel. "Small, unattractive, ashen skin from low birth. What do you see in her?" He sneered, shaking his head. "Plenty of noble women have come through these doors, yet you choose to fixate on this… donkey."
"Take that back!" Bao Yu's voice rang out, his face burning with anger.
Lord Bao stopped pacing and turned to his son, his expression cold and calculating. "You're so enthralled with this girl that nothing I say will sway you. Very well. You may have her—but as a concubine, not as your wife. Your wife will be of noble birth, as is proper. When you tire of that servant girl, you'll see reason."
Bao Yu's teeth clenched, but he forced himself to bow. "Father is most kind and generous," he said, though his voice dripped with bitterness. "I will bring her to you once I locate her."
"Locate her?" Lord Bao's brows rose in confusion.
"I have not been able to find her," Bao Yu admitted, his tone softer now. "The servant quarters are vast, but rest assured, Father, when you meet her, you will see that she is a suitable bride for me."
Lord Bao scoffed, turning his back to Bao Yu and dismissing him with a wave of his hand.
Bao Yu bowed again, though the act felt hollow, and left the study. As the doors closed behind him, he walked down the dimly lit hall, his thoughts consumed by Li Yunwu. No matter the obstacles, he vowed silently, he would find her, and he would make her his wife.
Li Yunwu stirred, her heavy eyelids fluttering open. The dim light of the room blurred her vision, but as it sharpened, she saw Bao Yu, slumped and fast asleep, hunched awkwardly over the bed. Dark circles shadowed his face, a testament to the long sleepless hours he had the night prior.
Before Li Yunwu could get out of bed, the creak of the door made her freeze. The eunuch stood in the doorway, his expression severe, his thin lips twisted into a deep scowl. His piercing gaze shifted from Bao Yu to her, making her stiffen instinctively.
The silence was suffocating, and Li Yunwu quickly slipped out of bed, bowing deeply. "This one apologizes for being an inconvenience. This one will depart now," she said softly, her voice steady despite the nervous tightness in her chest.
The eunuch scoffed, the sound cold and dismissive. Without another glance at her, he turned his attention to the young lord still sleeping soundly on the bed. Li Yunwu took the opportunity to hurry out, her bare feet padding softly on the floor as she slipped back to the servant quarters.
As she stepped into the small, cramped space, her sister's voice rang out sharply. "Da Jie, where have you been?" Li Shizi marched over, grabbing her arm with a firm grip. Her brows were furrowed, worry etched into her features. "Mama and I have been looking everywhere for you!"
"I'm sorry," Li Yunwu said quickly, lowering her gaze. She hesitated, rubbing the large bump on her forehead. "I was… taken to the medical ward."
Li Shizi's eyes widened in alarm. "How long have you been gone?" she asked, her tone a mix of concern and exasperation as they walked to their sleeping quarters.
"I don't know… a sichen?" Li Yunwu guessed uncertainly, though doubt flickered across her face.
"A sichen? You've been gone for three!" Li Shizi exclaimed, throwing her hands up.
Li Yunwu frowned, her mind racing. Three sichens?That can't be right. I worked through most of the laundry before…She trailed off, her thoughts clouded and hazy.
Before she could dwell on it, Li Shizi broke her train of thought with a grin. "Guess what? We go home tonight," she said, her excitement bubbling over as she began gathering her belongings. "Are you excited to see him?" she teased, nudging her sister playfully.
Li Yunwu's cheeks flushed. "It's been ten days already," she admitted, unable to hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "I can't wait to see him. Let's go!"
The sisters bid their mother farewell, hoping to see her return soon as well. Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of amber and violet. At the foot of their family's home, Yin Huli crouched patiently, his elbows resting on his knees and his chin propped on his hands. Beside him, Li Yang Mei sat cross-legged, the two of them having waited all day.
The sound of approaching footsteps made Yin Huli's ears twitch. His flaming amber eyes lit up as recognition dawned. In an instant, he bolted toward the sound, his heart leaping with anticipation.
When his eyes met Li Yunwu's, he broke into a wide grin, scooping her up effortlessly. He spun her around, her laughter ringing out like music against the quiet evening. "I missed you," he said softly, his voice filled with warmth. As he set her down, he leaned in, pressing a subtle kiss to her temple.
Li Yang Mei arrived moments later, out of breath and clutching her knees. "Da Jie, Er Jie!" he gasped, his face flushed from the sprint.
Li Yunwu embraced her siblings tightly, a smile lighting up her face. "I missed you both so much," she said, her voice full of affection.
After a brief reunion, the sisters went to report to their father. Once their duties were done, Yin Huli guided Li Yunwu to their room. He opened a large chest, revealing its contents: precious jewels, dragon pearls, silver coins, and ornate trinkets that glittered under the lantern light.
"These are for you," he said softly, his voice brimming with pride. "Your father will definitely accept this as dowry."
Her eyes widened as she took in the sight, her heart swelling with emotion. "Yin Huli… this is too much," she whispered, but the way she clung to his arm spoke volumes of her gratitude.
Li Yang Mei and Li Shizi marveled at the glittering treasures. Precious stones and dragon pearls reflected the warm candlelight, casting dancing shadows on the walls. Their awe-filled gasps broke through the soft murmur of conversation between Li Yunwu and Yin Huli.
"I'm sorry you had such a difficult time," Yin Huli said, his voice heavy with frustration. "If I had been there—" His words faltered, anger tightening his jaw.
Li Yunwu shook her head gently, reaching up to press a finger against his lips. "It's over now," she whispered, her calm voice soothing his rising ire.
He scoffed lightly, turning his head away, but the corners of his mouth betrayed him. A mischievous smile curled on his lips. Without a word, he reached behind him and produced a large lacquered box, its surface carved with intricate floral patterns. He handed it to her with a flourish.
"What is this?" Li Yunwu asked, her brows lifting in curiosity as she opened the box. Her breath caught when she saw the contents. Inside was a wedding robe of vibrant crimson silk, embroidered with delicate golden patterns of phoenixes and peonies.
Li Shizi and Li Yang Mei gasped in unison, leaning closer to admire the craftsmanship. Li Shizi ran her fingers over the fabric, marveling at its softness. "It's so beautiful," she breathed.
"Put it on for me," Yin Huli murmured in Li Yunwu's ear, his voice low and coaxing. The heat of his words sent a flush creeping up her neck. She hesitated, holding the robes close to her chest.
"A husband mustn't see his wife in her wedding robes before the ceremony," Li Shizi interjected, giving Yin Huli a scolding look. "It's bad luck."
Yin Huli pouted like a scolded child, his amber eyes locking onto Li Yunwu with a pleading gaze. She sighed softly, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Very well," she relented.
Li Shizi beamed and ushered her sister behind a partition, carefully helping her into the robes. The silk glided over Li Yunwu's skin, its vibrant color glowing in the dim light. Li Shizi even dabbed a touch of red rouge on her lips, completing the bridal look.
When Li Yunwu stepped out, Yin Huli froze, his breath hitching. His fiery gaze roamed over her, taking in every detail. Her ink-black hair cascaded loosely down her back, the crimson of her lips highlighting the emerald green in her eyes. The golden belt cinched her waist, accentuating her graceful figure.
He stood and crossed the room in a few strides, wrapping her in a firm embrace. "My wife is beautiful and virtuous," he murmured, his lips brushing against her forehead. A teasing glint appeared in his eyes as he whispered, "I might not be able to contain myself tonight."
"Yin Huli!" Li Shizi snapped, covering Li Yang Mei's ears. She shot him a sharp glare.
Li Yunwu laughed softly and placed her hands on Yin Huli's shoulders. "Alright, let me change back." But before she could step away, she rose onto her tiptoes and kissed him deeply.
Yin Huli's arms tightened around her, and before she could react, he swept her off her feet. With a playful grin, he bolted out of the room, her startled laughter ringing out behind them.
"Yin Huli! Put her down!" Li Shizi's voice echoed furiously as she chased after them.
"I really can't contain myself," Yin Huli rasped, his steps quickening as he carried Li Yunwu into the darkening forest.
"You've gotten Er Jie all worked up," Li Yunwu scolded, though her laughter betrayed her amusement. "She's probably worried sick!"
The trees grew denser as they approached a secluded temple. Its walls were cloaked in moss, and vines twisted around every crevice. Yin Huli's fox fire ignited in his hand, casting a gentle glow that illuminated their path.
Inside, the temple was a ruin of its former self. A broken statue stood in the center, nearly swallowed by overgrown plants. Time and nature had claimed the structure, leaving it a shadow of what it once was.
"This is my birthplace," Yin Huli said, his voice tinged with both pride and sorrow. "Over a thousand years ago, it was a fox den. My family lived here in peace… until humans discovered us. Most of the fox demons were killed and pelted for their fur. I was the only one who escaped."
Li Yunwu's hand tightened around his, her eyes filled with unspoken sorrow.
"I returned," he continued, his fox fire casting his face in an ethereal glow, "and made them pay for what they did." His gaze softened as he looked at her. "But that's in the past now. All that matters is that I've built a future… with you."
Li Yunwu smiled, resting her head against his chest. "We'll build it together."
Under the glow of flickering fox fire, they performed the sacred rites of their secret marriage. They bowed three times—once to the heavens and the earth, once to honor their parents, and finally, to one another. Each bow carried weight, their unspoken vows binding them in the quiet solitude of the ruined temple.
With their union sealed, Yin Huli and Li Yunwu departed back to the humble hut nestled in the shadow of the forest. The moon hung low, casting silver beams through the branches. Outside the hut, Li Shizi stood guard, her figure illuminated by the soft glow of a single lantern. Her face was set in a deep scowl as she caught sight of the approaching couple.
"Yin Huli is truly shameless," she muttered, crossing her arms over her chest. Her sharp gaze fell on him as he carried Li Yunwu effortlessly in his arms, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
Before he could speak, Li Yunwu intervened, her tone gentle. "Er Jie, nothing happened," she reassured her sister, her eyes soft and tender. "Yin Huli just wanted to show me something."
"Hmph," Li Shizi huffed, her suspicion unabated as she stepped aside to let them pass. Yin Huli finally set Li Yunwu down on the ground, his hand lingering at the small of her back.
"Nothing happened?" he teased, his amber eyes gleaming as he licked his lips playfully.
"Yin Huli!" Li Yunwu swatted his arm, her cheeks flushing.
Li Shizi rolled her eyes, muttering something under her breath as she followed them into the hut.
Inside, the air was bitterly cold, the night wind slicing through the cracks in the wooden walls like a knife. The thin blankets did little to shield them from the icy drafts, and their breaths came out in pale clouds, visible in the dim light.
Yin Huli, noticing the shivers wracking their bodies, knelt down and summoned his fox fire. The ethereal blue flames sparked to life in his palms, casting a warm glow that immediately softened the chill.
"Come closer," he said, his voice low and soothing. His tails unfurled, their soft fur wrapping snugly around Li Yang Mei and Li Shizi like a protective cocoon.
Li Shizi gave a reluctant grunt, but her shoulders relaxed as the warmth seeped into her. "I suppose you're useful for something," she muttered, though her tone lacked its usual sharpness.
Li Yang Mei giggled, snuggling closer to the warmth. "Your tail is so soft, Yin Huli!"
Yin Huli chuckled, his golden eyes flicking to Li Yunwu as he pulled her closer. "And for my wife," he murmured, his arms wrapping tightly around her, "I'll keep her the warmest."
Li Yunwu leaned into his embrace, resting her head on his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat soothed her, and she allowed herself to relax despite the cold.
"You really are shameless," Li Shizi muttered, though there was no bite to her words this time.
Yin Huli smirked. "Shameless? No. I'm just a devoted husband."
At the Bao Estate, Bao Yu paced the sprawling halls, his frustration mounting as the day turned into evening. He had spent hours searching for Li Yunwu, only to be met with silence and confusion from the servants. By the time he confronted the eunuch, his desperation was evident.
"Gong Gong," Bao Yu's voice was strained, his eyes burning with determination. "Did you say something to make her leave?"
The eunuch raised a brow, feigning indignation. "Young Lord, it pains me that you think so lowly of me. I have already told you—she left of her own accord."
Bao Yu's jaw tightened. "Then where is she?" he demanded. "I've searched everywhere, and no one seems to know who she is or where she's gone."
The eunuch remained unbothered, placing a hand on Bao Yu's shoulder in an attempt at comfort. "This is a sign from the heavens, Young Lord. Perhaps it is time you forget about her."
"Forget her?" Bao Yu's voice rose, brushing the eunuch's hand away as anger flared in his chest. "I love her."
The eunuch gasped, clutching his chest dramatically as if Bao Yu's words had physically struck him. "Young Lord! Your father would never approve of such a thing!"
"I care little for his approval," Bao Yu snapped, his voice filled with defiance. "She will be my bride, no matter what he says."
Turning sharply on his heel, Bao Yu strode away, his heart heavy but resolute. He didn't have time to argue further; his father had summoned him to the study.
When he entered his father's study, Bao Yu bowed deeply, his movements stiff and formal. Lord Bao sat in his imposing high-backed chair, the room filled with the scent of incense and the quiet crackle of the brazier. He waved the guards and servants away, leaving them alone.
"I've heard troubling rumors," Lord Bao began, his voice cold and steady. "You were seen running around with a girl in your arms. Is that true?"
Bao Yu straightened, his gaze unwavering. "Father, that is correct."
"And this girl," Lord Bao continued, his brows furrowing. "She's a mere servant, is she not?"
"That is also correct," Bao Yu admitted, though his tone was tinged with weariness.
Bao Yu met his father's gaze, his voice steady despite the weight of the moment. "Father, I wish to take her as my wife."
Lord Bao slammed his hand on the armrest, his voice rising with anger. "Absolutely not!"
Bao Yu inhaled sharply, his fists clenched beneath his robes. "I thought Father wished for me to take a wife," he said, his voice sharp with restrained defiance.
"Yes," Lord Bao retorted, his tone dripping with disdain. "A wife. Not a pleasure doll."
"Li Yunwu is no pleasure doll," Bao Yu shot back, his voice trembling with fury.
Lord Bao stood, clasping his hands behind his back as he began to pace. "Gong Gong described this girl to me," he said, his tone cruel. "Small, unattractive, ashen skin from low birth. What do you see in her?" He sneered, shaking his head. "Plenty of noble women have come through these doors, yet you choose to fixate on this… donkey."
"Take that back!" Bao Yu's voice rang out, his face burning with anger.
Lord Bao stopped pacing and turned to his son, his expression cold and calculating. "You're so enthralled with this girl that nothing I say will sway you. Very well. You may have her—but as a concubine, not as your wife. Your wife will be of noble birth, as is proper. When you tire of that servant girl, you'll see reason."
Bao Yu's teeth clenched, but he forced himself to bow. "Father is most kind and generous," he said, though his voice dripped with bitterness. "I will bring her to you once I locate her."
"Locate her?" Lord Bao's brows rose in confusion.
"I have not been able to find her," Bao Yu admitted, his tone softer now. "The servant quarters are vast, but rest assured, Father, when you meet her, you will see that she is a suitable bride for me."
Lord Bao scoffed, turning his back to Bao Yu and dismissing him with a wave of his hand.
Bao Yu bowed again, though the act felt hollow, and left the study. As the doors closed behind him, he walked down the dimly lit hall, his thoughts consumed by Li Yunwu. No matter the obstacles, he vowed silently, he would find her, and he would make her his wife.