Chapter 67: Qingwu Returns

Despite the temptation to linger in Xia Bingling's embrace, Wang Li knew better. Dawn was approaching, and Qingwu wouldn't be long in returning. Explaining his presence in Xia Bingling's chamber at this ungodly hour wouldn't be easy, not even with his practiced charm.

With a reluctant sigh, he disentangled himself from Xia Bingling. "I should get going," he murmured, his voice a low rumble against her ear. "Qingwu should be returning soon."

Xia Bingling understood. A flicker of disappointment crossed her eyes, quickly replaced by a knowing smile. "Of course," she replied, her voice smooth as silk. "Don't worry, your little secret is safe with me."

A wave of relief washed over Wang Li. He leaned down, brushing his lips against hers in a quick, chaste kiss. "Thank you," he whispered, before slipping out of the room like a phantom.

Returning to his own chamber, he threw himself onto the bed, exhaustion finally catching up to him. The events of the night still buzzed in his mind – the intoxicating encounter with Liu Xue, the familiar comfort of Xia Bingling's embrace. A satisfied smirk played on his lips.

Just as sleep began to claim him, a sharp rap on the door jolted him awake.

A servant entered, bowing low. "Young Master Li," he announced, "the young miss, Qingwu, has returned."

A wave of relief washed over Wang Li. He quickly composed himself, smoothing out his rumpled clothes and forcing a smile onto his face.

As Qingwu entered the courtyard, a triumphant grin spread across her face. Dust and grime streaked her otherwise pristine armor, but her eyes shone with the light of victory. "Wang Li!" she exclaimed, rushing towards him and throwing her arms around his neck. "I did it! We wiped out the entire pack of Wind Lightning Wolves."

Wang Li caught her in a warm embrace, the scent of sweat and victory mingling pleasantly with her familiar perfume. "That's incredible, Qingwu!" he exclaimed, genuinely impressed. "I knew you could do it."

He showered her with praise, his words genuine and heartfelt. Qingwu, basking in his approval, leaned in and planted a lingering kiss on his lips. It was a kiss filled with affection, a celebration of her success and the bond they shared.

Suddenly, the courtyard door creaked open, and two figures entered. Xia Bingling and Liu Xue, their faces carefully composed, watched the scene unfold before them. For different reasons, both women felt a pang of discomfort.

Xia Bingling's insides churned. Just minutes ago, this very same man had been whispering sweet nothings in her ear, his hands roaming freely over her body. Now, he was locked in a passionate kiss with her daughter – a stark reminder of his duplicity. She forced a smile, however, the tightness around her lips betraying her true feelings.

Liu Xue, too, found the sight unsettling. The memory of last night's passionate encounter with Wang Li felt raw and fresh. Seeing him embrace Qingwu so openly brought a wave of guilt crashing down on her. Shame burned in her gut, reminding her of the betrayal she had committed against her innocent junior sister.

Despite the turmoil within them, both women managed to maintain a facade of composure. They exchanged greetings with Wang Li and Qingwu, their voices carefully neutral.

His eyes gleamed with a strategic glint. "Such a statement will not only clear our name, but it will also expose the baseless nature of these accusations. Those who spread these rumors, particularly Ye Fan, will be exposed for the charlatans they are."

A collective murmur of approval rose from the table. Qingwu, ever the firebrand, clapped her hands enthusiastically. "Brilliant, Li! This is even better than physically confronting them. Let them squirm under the weight of their own false propogandas!"

Matriarch Xia Bingling nodded slowly, a rare smile gracing her lips. "This is a sound strategy, Wang Li. However, compiling such evidence requires time and manpower."

Wang Li smiled reassuringly. "Of course, Matriarch. But we don't have to shoulder the burden alone. I propose we combine our resources. The Xia Family has an extensive network of informants and investigators. I'm confident that with your assistance, we can compile a compelling report in a timely manner."

A flicker of a knowing smile passed between Wang Li and Xia Bingling, unseen by the others. Qingwu, oblivious to the deeper currents at play, simply beamed.

"This is fantastic!" she exclaimed. "I can't wait to see the look on Ye Fan's face when this statement gets released!"

Matriarch Xia Bingling cleared her throat. "Excellent. Then let's waste no time. Liu Xue, I shall assign some of my most trusted personnel to assist you with this investigation. They know where to look and how to gather the necessary data."

Liu Xue, momentarily caught off guard, quickly nodded her agreement. While the prospect of spending additional time with Wang Li sent a jolt through her, the potential to help him and protect the family name was too important to disregard.

"Thank you, Matriarch," Wang Li said, a grateful smile playing on his lips. He stole a quick wink at Bingling, a silent acknowledgment of their secret understanding. Thankfully, both Qingwu and Liu Xue were engrossed in the conversation, completely oblivious to the subtle exchange.

The morning sun streamed through the high windows, illuminating the room where they sat.

Wang Li leaned back in his chair, addressing Xia Bingling with a serious tone. "There's one more thing, Matriarch Xia. I need your help in bringing someone here."

Xia Bingling raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "Who might that be, Wang Li?"

"My cousin, Wang Xiangyi," he replied. "She's currently staying in one of your safehouses within the Broken Sword Kingdom, accompanied by my aunts, Wang Yaqi and Wang Ruyan."

Xia Bingling nodded, her understanding evident. "Of course," she said. "I'll send a few of my most trusted men to escort them safely."

Wang Li expressed his gratitude. "Thank you, Matriarch. Their presence will be invaluable."