Chapter 1955: Fate Chapter 1955: Fate Editor: Henyee Translations Second Old Master Mei let out a heavy sigh.
âNothing is guaranteed.
I had hoped that Liu Zhi could sway him, or at least earn us a favorable mention.
It would have saved us a lot of troubleââŹâsigh!â The two brothers commiserated with each other, their minds burdened with concerns and uncertainties.
âItâs just unfortunate that the gift didnât appeal to him.
What more can be done?â lamented one.
Old Master Mei listened intently before offering his perspective.
âSimply because he rejected Liu Zhi doesnât mean heâs averse to others.
Shao Yunduan is, first and foremost, a scholarââŹâa formidable one at that.
Itâs not uncommon for scholars to have reservations, particularly in matters of reputation and sensitivity.
His rejection in public may be a reflection of such concerns.â Third Old Master Mei chimed in, nodding in agreement.
âIndeed, scholars often conceal unsavory habits behind a façade of piety.
It appears that Shao Yunduan values his reputation greatly.
Perhaps presenting him with a more discreet option would yield better results?â Despite his doubts, Third Old Master Mei remained convinced of Liu Zhiâs irresistible allure.
âSurely, no man could resist such exquisite beauty.
It would be a waste not to pursue her.â Old Master Mei interjected, his tone firm.
âItâs not prudent.
Shao Yunduan values his reputation highly.
If he rejected Liu Zhi, he may not accept her in private.
We must explore other avenues to secure his favor.â âBut where could I find another woman like Liu Zhi?â âIt doesnât have to be identical,â Old Master Mei retorted disdainfully.
âScholars are known to value serendipity.
Our chance encounter is far more favorable than a direct presentation from others, wouldnât you agree?â The eyes of the other two Mei family elders gleamed with newfound hope.
âElder Brother, thatâs a brilliant notion!â As Shao Yunduan returned to his quarters in the backyard of the state office, he was greeted by Qiao Xuanâs welcoming smile.
Caught off guard, Shao Yunduanâs gaze softened as he reached out to her.
âWhy are you still awake?â âI was waiting for you,â Qiao Xuan replied, her smile unwavering.
âYou smell of alcohol.
Have you been indulging in drink all evening?â Shao Yunduan hesitated for a moment, feeling a pang of guilt at her inquiry.
He was wary of the implications of the cosmeticsâ scent on his clothing, fearing his wifeâs suspicions.
With a forced smile, he responded, âNo, I was simply enjoying the entertainment.
Iâm going to freshen up now; my wife is expecting me in our chamberââŹÂŚâ Though innocent in his actions, he recognized the potential for misunderstandings.
It was better to swiftly dispel any doubts to maintain domestic harmony.
Qiao Xuan nodded understandingly.
âGo ahead.â Shao Yunduan planted a kiss on her cheek before grinning, âWait for me!â With that, he shuffled off.
Qiao Xuan wrinkled her nose and let out a small scoff.
She had a keen sense of smell, easily detecting the lingering scent of cosmetics on her husbandâs clothes.
Though somewhat awkward, she dismissed any lingering doubts.
It was customary for such gatherings to feature dancers and courtesans, their presence accompanied by a cloud of perfume filling the air.
However, Qiao Xuan couldnât help but feel a twinge of disappointment.
With her husband increasingly attending such events, her own happiness seemed destined to diminish.
After a refreshing shower, Shao Yunduan returned to their bedroom, feeling invigorated.
Qiao Xuan was lounging against the bedâs headboard in her apricot-colored pajamas, her loose black hair cascading over her shoulders.
The soft fabric draped loosely around her form, and in the gentle glow of the room, she exuded an air of delicate allure and languid charm.
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