CH 35

After all, the wall displayed a golden-thread embroidered picture portraying hundreds of descendants and thousands of grandchildren, a sight that greeted anyone who looked up.

Following their laughter, Mrs. Pei expressed her intention to keep her niece for dinner. Dou Qingyue, not wanting to witness the affectionate display between her cousin and sister-in-law, discreetly covered her mouth with a handkerchief and coughed twice, drawing Mrs. Pei's concern.

Under the watchful gazes of her aunt and cousin, Dou Qingyue boarded the carriage to return home. As the curtains of the carriage were drawn shut, her expression revealed a sense of unease.

The carriage gradually distanced itself from Furong Street, and the maid sitting beside Dou Qingyue inquired, "Miss?.”

Dou Qingyue anxiously twisted her brocade fabric with her fingers and questioned, "Do you think my cousin found out? Because why else would he look at me so strangely?."

Burdened by a sense of guilt akin to that of a thief, Dou Qingyue's servant pondered the question and replied in a perplexed manner, "Is there something wrong?.”

Setting aside all other considerations, Dou Qingyue had always been devoted to Pei Xuan. Even if Pei Xuan wore an odd expression or furrowed ‘his’ brows, Dou Qingyue would patiently decipher the meaning for an extended period. Over time, she had come to understand her cousin almost as well as her own mother.

The more she dwelled on it, the more perturbed she became. She whispered to herself, "Cousin, don't think that I'm purposely stirring up trouble."

"..."

The servant girl was left speechless, silently criticizing, ‘Is she still trying to do good deeds? With such a large embroidered picture filled with various children, if she were to see them every day, I’d be worried about giving birth myself.’

Dou Qingyue swept away her worries, and smiled: "Anyway, I'm not someone who worries, I care more about other people's lives."

With a change in her tone, the servant girl obediently lowered her head.

…

Pei Xuan gazed at the wall absentmindedly, lost in her thoughts, when the sound of footsteps came in, they brought her back to reality.

"Does it look good?"

"It's not pretty."

Indeed, it was true that the picture wasn't visually appealing. But her cousin required constant support due to her illness, and embroidery was a delicate task that demanded considerable energy. 

Moreover, the notion of hundreds of sons and thousands of grandchildren didn't appeal to Pei Xuan. The mere thought of such vast numbers was exhausting.

Pei Xuan saw no need to sugarcoat her opinion. Cui Ti, who despised bluntness, feared hurting others' feelings but if it was a rival-in-love then she’ll take the measures that are necessary.

Soon after, Pei Xuan led the way, careful to protect her wife as they walked.

The night was calm, adorned with stars that flickered like fire. Lanterns adorned every corner of the Pei family's mansion, and the sound of insects and birds resonated from the surrounding foliage, creating a delightful ambiance.

Pei Xuan contemplated Cui Ti's dream of tumbling into a lotus pond. As she strolled along, the realization struck her that it was a haunting memory to ponder beneath the moonlight.

Amidst her own laughter despite thinking negatively, it wasn't merely the melodic chirping of insects that evoked her amusement. Recognizing Cui Ti's astuteness, Pei Xuan refrained from questioning, knowing well that Cui Ti was neither a child nor a fool. 

Witnessing Cui Ti's demeanor, ever since she met her, as if impervious to deception, Pei Xuan felt as if she had stumbled upon a precious treasure. Pei Xuan recalled her wife’s prolonged dream, speculating that within that dream, she possessed an active yet tenacious mind that resisted the allure of the radiant moon.

If one asked to define elegance to the Pei Xuan of now, she would declare that it lies in the embrace of the luminous moon, surrendering oneself to its intoxicating allure.

(T/L: Basically, Pei Xuan wondered why she in Cui Ti’s dream didn’t fall in love at all since Pei Xuan now couldn’t handle the temptation)

No one paid her any mind. She basked in her joy and radiant expression, until Cui Ti's curiosity inadvertently peaked, compelling her to inquire, "What are you laughing at?.”

"I laugh at my own life," Pei Xuan replied.

Cui Ti froze for a moment, then nodded earnestly, "Truly, your life is indeed splendid."

Every individual has their own fate. Some reside in desolate lands, while others have luxurious lives. Some are born into royalty, dwelling in grand mansions and relishing sumptuous feasts, while others seem abandoned by fate, sheltered beneath the tattered roof of adversity, their hearts yearning for a place to call home.

Pei Xuan has had a fortunate fate. Blessed with a powerful prime minister for a father and a mother hailing from a renowned lineage. 

What’s more, she herself dedicates to the welfare of the common people, tirelessly working to better the community.

In Cui Ti’s previous life, Pei Xuan had already risen to prominence as the most beloved courtier in Xijing before she died. It wouldn't have taken more than a few years for her to become the new Prime Minister.

Contemplating this, Cui Ti cast an awkward glance at Pei Xuan.

Deep within, Pei Xuan comprehended her innermost feelings and spoke with a smile, "I consider myself truly fortunate to marry the most exceptional woman in the world. Our desires align, and we fulfill each other's wishes."

"Who said we’re in agreement?.”

"You did."

These words wafted into Cui Ti's ears carried by the evening breeze, igniting a tingling sensation that caused her earlobes to blush. Fortunately, the night shrouded her face, concealing her bashful countenance.

She laughed at herself, realizing that Pei Xuan was blessed beyond measure. Not only did she tread a smooth path along the road called life but her love life also unfolded effortlessly.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that she was the favored daughter of destiny.

In comparison, Cui Ti couldn't help but feel a sense of pity for herself.

Perhaps it was her profound miserableness in her previous life that led an immortal to open her spiritual eyes, allowing her to behold the "husband" she had fallen for.

She gazed directly at Pei Xuan. Observing beauty beneath the moon was akin to observing beauty under a lamp. The radiant moonlight served as a captivating backdrop for Pei Xuan's grace and poise.

It was as though she could peer into her very soul, and her heart and spirit were undeniably drawn to Pei Xuan's magnificent presence.

The two came to a halt, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

The air was saturated with a thick honey-like scent, mingled with a peculiar sweetness.

Bai Tang tightly grasped Rou’s sleeve, and the group silently slipped away, warning the patrolling guards to step aside.

With no one else in sight, the glow of seven or eight rabbit shaped lamps illuminated the dark night. 

Pei Xuan, feeling a hint of embarrassment, averted her gaze and playfully hooked her little finger with Cui Ti's, urging them to continue walking forward.

The playful manner in which she thought of wanting to kiss or not was delightful. Cui Ti was prepared to embrace her love at any time, but she never expected Pei Xuan to possess only a trace of courage.

Yet in her previous life, Pei Xuan was even more reluctant than now.

Before, she was unaware of Pei Xuan's true feelings, thinking that she held no place in Pei Xuan's heart. However, the reality was quite the opposite—Pei Xuan had fallen in love with her at first sight and they had consummated the first year of their marriage. 

Realizing this, Cui Ti couldn't help but feel a sense of pity for the naive fool she had been in her previous life.

And so, in this life, she desired to tease and playfully bully the person she loved even more.

Cui Ti knowingly asked, "What did you... want to do just now?.”

Pei Xuan stumbled, attempting to regain her balance, her face flushed crimson, "I-I didn't want to do anything."

Her head moved up and down as her clear and affectionate eyes fixed upon a nearby rabbit lamp. A sense of unease settled within her heart. Every time she saw a rabbit, her mind conjured images of Cui Ti’s softness and tenderness.

It was only a day after their consummation, and the chaotic yet lustful picture became clear in her mind.

Heat flushed Pei Xuan’s face, and her fingertips tingle with warmth. With an mischievous "Oh," Ci Ti deliberately tripped on a small pebble, feigning a stumble and gracefully falling into the tender grass beneath.

Pei Xuan, taken aback, instantly abandoned her lustful thoughts and swiftly wrapped her arm around Cui Ti's shoulder. Concerned, she asked, "What happened? Did you sprain your foot?.”

She prepared to remove Cui Ti's boots and socks, but Cui Ti, fearing her little scheme would be exposed, hastily fled like a startled deer in a hunting ground.

Pei Xuan's heart wavered back and forth, and after a while, she awakened to the realization that Cui Ti had intended to throw herself into her embrace. Reflecting upon her own momentary confusion, she felt irritated by her lack of understanding.

"You're really not hurt?.”

"No."

"Are you tired from walking?.”

Cui Ti nodded her head like a chicken pecking at rice.

Pei Xuan, a frail scholar, couldn't help but imagine herself as a heroic hero, wordlessly carrying her beloved. This notion stirred within her, infusing her with a sudden burst of strength. She took a deep breath, her voice solemn, "My wife, get on my back!.”

Pei Xuan had a petite and slender frame, and Cui Ti hesitated, fearing she might crush her.

"Get on!" Pei Xuan's tone was serious, leaving no room for doubt.

Dumbfounded, Cui Ti obediently climbed onto Pei Xuan's back. The intoxicating fragrance from the previous night had left her unconscious, unable to recall the details of how she had surrendered herself to Pei Xuan. Her chest pressed against Pei Xuan's slender back, and the tip of her nose caught the faint scent of this person. 

Pei Xuan, tall and lean, didn't have much flesh to speak of. Cui Ti wrapped her arms around her neck and asked, "Am I heavy?.”

Pei Xuan's response was a mismatch: "You can't weigh me down, don't worry, wife!."

"..."

Is this what she asked?

Never mind!

Cui Ti held on to Pei Xuan tightly, making it impossible for her to see her face. 

Emboldened, she let out a soft laugh and smiled, "I know, you wanted to kiss me back then, didn't you?.”

"..."

Pei Xuan remained silent, but her breathing became noticeably shallow.

Tonight, her wife seemed different from what Pei Xuan had seen during the day. The night seemed to have made her courageous. 

At this moment, Pei Xuan stole a quick glance from the corner of her eye, capturing Cui Ti's captivating face in her mind, she was enchanting as a blooming peach blossom.

Pei Xuan suddenly leaped up with sheer joy, unable to contain her excitement.

How could Cui Ti not know that someone was looking at her? She panicked for a moment, and said softly: "You are not allowed to look back at me."

“Mhm.”

Pei Xuan's response was simple and direct.

The Prime Minister's mansion sprawled in grandeur, with long corridors stretching endlessly. Tiny beads of sweat trickled down Pei Xuan’s skin, glistening like dewdrops on a spring morning. No matter how she disguised herself as a man, her feminine essence couldn't be concealed. Her breath was crisp and pure, a delightful sensation for Cui Ti to feel.

Wordlessly, a moist kiss landed on the side of her neck, causing Pei Xuan's heart to tremble and her pulse to quicken.

Their breathing grew heavier, filling the air with anticipation.

Neither of them uttered a word.

Beneath the hazy moonlight, the bashful Cui Ti could only express her affection through actions rather than words.

She willingly offered the most loyal and unwavering heart.

However, given Pei Xuan's reserved demeanor and adherence to etiquette, she couldn't expect this woman to take the lead.

Cui Ti wanted Pei Xuan to pay back the grievances she suffered in her previous life.

As the gentle breeze caressed their surroundings, Cui Ti's cheeks turned rosy and she shyly asked, "Do you like it?.”

A fire blazed in Pei Xuan's throat, rendering her voice hoarse as she responded, "Yes!.”

Contentedly, Cui Ti, who was on Pei Xuan’s back, lifted her face, hoping the night breeze would whisk away the warmth on her cheeks.

Returning to the courtyard, beads of sweat still adorned Pei Xuan's forehead as she remained seated, sipping her tea. From time to time, she gazed at Cui Ti in a daze, who, with a mere glance, dismissed everyone else around them.

"Wife."

Cui Ti raised her eyes and turned her gaze towards Pei Xuan, "Yes?.”

Pei Xuan's mind became filled with distracting thoughts by the innocence in Cui Ti's eyes. However, she felt quite uncomfortable with the sweat stains on her body, reaching a point where she couldn't bear it any longer. With sincerity, she extended an invitation to Cui Ti. "Would you like to take a bath?"

Unbeknownst to Cui Ti, the servants had already prepared a hot bath. It was Bai Tang who took the opportunity to help make what was on her mistress' mind a reality. 

Cui Ti, who cherished the intimate life of marriage and delighted in witnessing Pei Xuan's mischief, understood the underlying message.

Pei Xuan was not a saint, but a mortal.

"Shall I help you get there?.” Pei Xuan suggested.

Cui Ti nodded slowly.

With a smile, Pei Xuan supported her arm and they entered the mist-filled clean room.

In the bathing area, there were two tubs, one large and one small. Colorful petals floated on the surface of the steaming water, creating a delightful sight. The temperature of the water was just right, enveloping Pei Xuan's face in a rosy hue as she stood amidst the hot mist. After waiting for a while, Cui Ti remained silent.

"Wife, should we..." Pei Xuan's voice trailed off, seeking confirmation.

"What?" Cui Ti's heart skipped a beat, the words Bai Tang had imparted resonating in her mind: ‘A couple who haven't bathed together cannot be considered true lovers.’ 

Just thinking about it made her hands and feet feel weak.

Observing the blush on Cui Ti's face, Pei Xuan had an idea. She untied the sachet from her waist and tossed it into the smaller tub. "Wife, the water on the left is contaminated. We should use the right tub instead."

As Pei Xuan used the word "we," Cui Ti felt an overwhelming shyness washing over her. 

After a brief moment, she burst into laughter, unable to contain her joy.