Chapter 86: Does Ruoruo Want to Live Separately from Him?
The night grew deeper.
Jiang Ru sat at her desk, pressing down the divorce agreement she had just finished writing with her inkstone.
Written on the agreement were a few crooked characters: "Parting as friends."
The meaning was clear; even if they were to separate, they would still remain good friends.
Jiang Ru stretched and headed straight back to her own bedroom.
Haha! Tomorrow she could part ways with her "thigh."
Honestly, after spending some time together, she felt a bit reluctant to see him go. After all, if Xiao Chengjin left, Steward Lin and the others would have to follow him. From now on, she would rely on Uncle Ji and the others.
Jiang Ru lay in bed, unable to sleep, and went into her space.
In the space, the little phoenix looked at the feathers in front of it with an expression that said, "My heart is broken."
Of all its feathers, this one was the most beautiful, and it had been plucked by that dog of a man.
It was furious.
Next time, it would teach him a lesson when he came in.
When the little phoenix caught sight of Jiang Ru entering the space, it gave a cold snort and struck a pose as if to say, "Come and comfort me."
Jiang Ru: "...?"
The little phoenix had been going through a rebellious phase lately, and it needed some discipline.
Besides, it couldn't stay in the space all the time!
Once outside the space, it couldn't tell right from wrong and might get tricked by bad people and locked in a cage again...
Thinking of this, Jiang Ru deliberately put on a stern face and spoke in a commanding tone, "Little Phoenix, come here!"
The little phoenix: "...?"
Why was this woman still angry?
Hmm, her stern appearance was quite terrifying.
With its golden eyes rolling, the little phoenix slowly approached Jiang Ru.
"Sister, what's wrong with you?"
Jiang Ru stroked its feathers and taught it earnestly, "Sister will tell you, there are two kinds of people in this world, bad people and good people."
"Of course, some bad people may pretend to be good people to deceive you, so you have to keep your eyes sharp, understand?"
"Um, in the future, you can only bully the bad people when you're out of the space, okay?"
You're naive; you haven't experienced the harshness of society yet, and it's easy to be fooled, you know.
After listening, the "obedient" little phoenix nodded.
But inside, it was on alert.
Why did it have to leave the space?
The space was so comfortable, and it didn't want to leave at all.
What if it got caught by bad people after leaving and they plucked its feathers and cooked it?
Great! It must be that dog of a man who instigated this.
Jiang Ru had no idea what the little phoenix was thinking. After giving it some guidance, she tidied up the fields in the space.
In the bedroom, after Xiao Chengjin finished washing up, he sat on the edge of the bed, waiting for Jiang Ru to come.
Ruoruo was his legally wedded wife, and it was reasonable and expected that they shared the same bed.
However, as he waited and waited... Jiang Ru still hadn't come.
Xiao Chengjin couldn't hold back his impatience.
He listened to the sounds from the courtyard and gently pushed open the door.
"Cough!"
He coughed lightly, covering his mouth, then quietly leaped down from the roof.
"Master, what are your orders?"
"Where is the Madam?"
After clearing his throat, An Yi reported truthfully, "Madam left the study and went to her bedroom over there."
As he spoke, An Yi gestured towards Jiang Ru's room.
Xiao Chengjin, upon hearing this, stood still in disbelief.
Did Ruoruo want to live separately from him?
He certainly didn't want that!
Xiao Chengjin remained stunned for quite some time before finally regaining his composure. "You may leave!"
Sigh, the servants would surely have a good laugh at his expense.
"Yes, Master."
After An Yi left, Xiao Chengjin went straight to the study.
In the dim candlelight, Xiao Chengjin stared blankly at the divorce agreement in his hands.
Could it be that Ruoruo no longer wanted him?
But everything was fine before dinner last night!
His hands involuntarily clenched...
He really wanted to tear this divorce agreement to shreds, but... he didn't dare.
In the end, Xiao Chengjin silently unfolded the slightly crumpled piece of paper and placed it back under the inkstone.
After leaving the study, Xiao Chengjin glanced at Jiang Ru's room, feeling dispirited, and then returned to his bedroom.
Several bodyguards clearly sensed that Xiao Chengjin's mood was off.
They didn't dare to approach him to avoid drawing his attention and remained hidden, waiting for his orders.
Why did they have a feeling that their master had been abandoned?
Xiao Chengjin: Bah! A bunch of chatterboxes.
...
The next day.
Xiao Chengjin woke up before dawn.
At this time, the courtyard was quiet. After he finished freshening up, he went directly to the study and sat there for a while.
Ruoruo had said last night that he could "wake up" this morning.
Staring at the irritating divorce agreement, Xiao Chengjin's expression faltered...
He couldn't stay in this study any longer.
Woooo, he was about to be abandoned by Ruoruo.
After waking up early, Jiang Ru felt refreshed.
She was delighted, thinking, "A new day, time to get busy."
There were still many things to do today: part amicably with Xiao Chengjin, go to the town to deal with the deed to the house...
Xiao Chengjin stood by the window, watching the busy servants, and decided to give them a "surprise."
He adjusted his facial expression and walked out of the room...
Steward Lin and Ji Yunce were cleaning the courtyard. When they saw Xiao Chengjin emerge from the room, they thought they were seeing things.
The two exchanged glances and simultaneously thought: This must be an illusion.
Ignoring Xiao Chengjin, they continued cleaning the courtyard.
Xiao Chengjin: "..."
Dong Xue and Liu Mama were frightened and frozen in place when they saw the imposing figure.
H-He's awake?
They looked at his stern face and simultaneously thought: This person doesn't seem easy to get along with.
Maybe he doesn't like women?
Yes, let the master separate from him.
An Yi and the others pretended to walk up to Xiao Chengjin and respectfully bowed, saying, "We greet the Master."
Xiao Chengjin scanned the stunned faces of his servants, then coldly hummed and said, "No need for formalities!"
Jiang Ru stood by the window, excitedly watching Xiao Chengjin's "apparently" improved demeanor.
Excellent, wasn't this following the original plot?
Hehe! "Thigh," here I come!
She quickly changed her clothes, opened the door to her room, and pretended to be surprised. "Xiao Chengjin, you're awake?"
As soon as Xiao Chengjin heard the sound of the door opening, his imposing aura involuntarily weakened.
The bodyguards: "..."
Their master changes his mood so quickly.
Fear from within, no doubt.
Under the amazed eyes of the crowd, Xiao Chengjin, wearing a faint smile, stepped forward to meet her.
He gazed at the woman before him and whispered, "Ruoruo, you're awake."
Jiang Ru blinked at the handsome face before her.
Oh my! What should she do?
This dog of a man suddenly... made his way into her heart with his charm.
Thinking of the divorce agreement she wrote last night, Jiang Ru sensibly snapped herself out of his allure.
"Xiao Chengjin, wait a moment. I have something to discuss."
After saying that, Jiang Ru went straight to the study.
Xiao Chengjin thought of the divorce agreement in the study, and his entire body exuded a chilling aura.
If she wanted to separate, there wouldn't even be a door.
Chapter 87: Ruoruo, We Won't Separate
The atmosphere in the courtyard was somewhat strange.
A few of the guards keenly sensed their master's unusual mood and discreetly retreated.
Well, there was a sense of impending doom.
At times like this, these loyal servants needed to reduce their presence.
Steward Lin and Ji Yunce abandoned their brooms and began munching on melons, silently observing the situation.
Speaking of which, something wasn't right between the two masters.
What exactly was off, they...
Huh, wait, when did their masters get so familiar?
Wasn't he just waking up?
They exchanged glances, both with expressions of confusion.
Jiang Ru entered the study and picked up the divorce document from beneath the inkstone.
Once "Big Thigh" signed it, everything would be fine.
Furthermore, "Big Thigh" was the most likely candidate to become a ruler. She couldn't hold him back.
Haha! Their ideological awareness was truly high.
Xiao Chengjin watched Jiang Ru return from the study with the divorce document, his eyes filled with complex emotions.
Ruoruo must have reluctantly accepted a royal decree.
It couldn't be helped... she probably resisted it in her heart.
But he truly didn't want to separate from her.
Jiang Ru stood before Xiao Chengjin, forcing a faint smile.
In her mind, she wondered: What reason should I give for this? If I say it too directly... it might hurt his pride.
Hehe! Let's be tactful.
Xiao Chengjin, while staring at the divorce document in her hand, felt like a fishbone stuck in his throat.
Just as he was at a loss for what to do, Jiang Ru's voice broke the silence.
"Well, look at you, handsome and talented. And then there's me, always looking unkempt and not understanding how to be dignified and virtuous. So, the two of us... aren't a good match."
She praised him while subtly putting herself down. She wanted to make him feel good and maintain his pride.
Xiao Chengjin gazed at her with the divorce document, unable to comprehend what she had just said.
The servants in the courtyard exchanged puzzled looks. What did the master mean?
They thought that the two of them looked great together—such a talented and beautiful couple.
After Jiang Ru finished speaking, she waited quietly for Xiao Chengjin's response.
She waited and waited, but the man opposite her remained unresponsive.
Boss, this is your chance to...
Oh, you didn't hear her clearly, did you?
Fine, let's be direct.
Jiang Ru took out the divorce document and handed it to Xiao Chengjin. "Sign it!"
Once he signed, he could take his wealth and leave.
It was a rare opportunity, so he had to seize it!
Upon hearing this, Xiao Chengjin finally shifted his gaze to the divorce document before him.
In full view of everyone, he grabbed the divorce document without even glancing at it and tore it to pieces...
This sudden action shocked Jiang Ru, who stared in disbelief at the torn divorce document on the ground, a puzzled expression on her face.
Boss, did you find my handwriting ugly?
Lost in thought, she suddenly found herself in a warm embrace...
Xiao Chengjin's voice was slightly hoarse as he said, "Ruoruo, we won't separate."
Hidden from the view of others, a trace of malevolence flickered in his eyes.
Why should we separate? I wanted to grow old with you!
Jiang Ru: "..."
What's going on here?
The plot... has reversed again?
Hey! Boss, snap out of it.
Let's stick to the script!
The servants in the courtyard finally understood what was happening.
They secretly thought, "Haha... the boss just rescinded the divorce."
They quietly left, realizing that some scenes were better off just being observed, and too much knowledge could be deadly.
With a handsome man in her arms, Jiang Ru instinctively extended her claws and held onto his trembling figure.
"Wait, aren't you supposed to have no interest in women?" Jiang Ru said while trying to push Xiao Chengjin away.
Now wasn't the time to be entranced by beauty; she needed to stay clear-headed.
Xiao Chengjin noticed Jiang Ru's actions and tightened his grip on her arms, his ears turning red as he whispered, "Ruoruo, I don't have any 'hidden issues.' I just haven't met a woman I like."
He had to clarify now; he couldn't let Jiang Ru continue to misunderstand.
Jiang Ru: "..."
So, those rumors of 'hidden issues' and 'no interest in women' were all fabricated by you.
Thinking back to the embarrassing scene where she had Steward Lin keep an eye on the handsome men earlier, Jiang Ru felt the urge to dig a hole and hide.
She had been too presumptuous.
After a while, Jiang Ru heard a soft voice in her ear, "Ruoruo, from now on... can we not bring up the divorce anymore?"
This made Jiang Ru blush and her heart race; her legs even felt a bit weak.
Oh, it was so hard to resist such a cute puppy in moments like these!
But the more critical the situation, the more she needed to stay rational.
Jiang Ru broke free from Xiao Chengjin's embrace and said sternly, "Fine, let's not talk about divorce. But we need to establish ten conditions. If you violate any of them, we divorce immediately."
Three conditions are too few; we can add more if necessary.
At that time, as long as you dare to make a mistake, I'll dare to kick you out.
Upon hearing this, Xiao Chengjin's eyes lit up.
This method seemed pretty good.
As long as he fulfilled all the conditions, Jiang Ru would have no reason to send him away.
Thinking this, he took Jiang Ru's hands in his and, with red ears, said, "Ruoruo, I agree to your ten conditions."
"Can I... make a request?"
Jiang Ru looked at the bashful big puppy and raised the corner of her lips.
"Go ahead! As long as it's not too unreasonable, I'll agree."
Under Jiang Ru's playful gaze, Xiao Chengjin took a step closer and whispered in her ear, "We're a couple now, so we shouldn't sleep in separate rooms."
Jiang Ru: "..."
Sleeping in the same room is also acceptable.
But I'm afraid that I might... eat you up.
"Let's talk about that later. I'm going to handle the property deeds in a while. You stay here obediently." After Jiang Ru finished speaking, she called over Steward Lin and the others.
"Now is not the time to let your guard down. Try not to let news of Xiao Chengjin's awakening reach the capital."
The others immediately nodded and said, "Yes, Mistress."
If the Emperor knew that their lord had awakened, he might send several waves of assassins.
In that case, there would be no peaceful days.
Unless, of course, their lord showed some determination... and claimed the throne.
Thinking this, they all cast disdainful glances at Xiao Chengjin.
Coward!
Xiao Chengjin: "..."
What kind of looks are those?
If Ruoruo wants it, I'll gather my troops and head back to the capital immediately.
You guys seriously need a reality check.
Xiao Chengjin followed Jiang Ru closely as they returned to the front hall.
"Ruoruo, don't worry about not having enough money to spend. I have many businesses under my name."
"Furthermore, the vaults of the Hidden Guard Battalion are filled with rare treasures and oddities."
You'll definitely like them.
Jiang Ru, upon hearing this, suddenly widened her eyes.
There's wealth in the Hidden Guard Battalion too...
Hehe! It looks like the days of lying low have come!
Xiao Chengjin appraised Jiang Ru's expression, which had shifted from shock to avarice, and revealed a charming smile.
Luckily, he had some assets.
Perhaps, all of this was arranged by fate.
Chapter 88: Dare I Say I'm Better at Being a Husband?
During breakfast, with Xiao Chengjin's presence, Steward Lin and his companions felt rather awkward.
Master, don't you feel somewhat redundant?
Ji Yunce and the others, on the other hand, didn't mind the extra person at all. One more person meant more food and drink.
Xiao Chengjin sat beside Jiang Ru, attentively serving her, picking up dishes with public chopsticks and placing them on her plate.
Jiang Ru: "..."
Hehe~
The humble husband has logged in.
At this moment, Xiao Chengjin recalled his hazy childhood memories...
He remembered when his father, the emperor, used to personally serve dishes to his mother during meals. He used to sit far away, quietly eating his own meal...
After snapping back to reality, Xiao Chengjin looked at Jiang Ru with a loving gaze.
He wondered if his father had felt the same way back then.
Seeing Xiao Chengjin's overly sweet gaze, everyone in the room shivered.
Master, please hide your affectionate gaze.
Sigh, suddenly the food in their bowls didn't taste as good.
After eating breakfast, Jiang Ru returned to her room and changed into a more elegant attire.
Xiao Chengjin stood outside her door, coldly eyeing a few servants who seemed to be in the way.
Your presence is somewhat superfluous, you know.
Oh right, they could build a small courtyard nearby and have these servants move there. This way, he and Jiang Ru could have their privacy.
Steward Lin and the others understood the meaning behind Xiao Chengjin's gaze as they looked at him with appreciation.
Alright, they were indeed superfluous.
When Jiang Ru exited her room, she sternly told Xiao Chengjin at the door, "Stay at home nicely."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Chengjin nodded, looking pitiful.
Jiang Ru simply didn't want the news of his awakening to reach the capital. So, he could wear a mask when going out, and that should work!
Thinking of this, Xiao Chengjin tugged at Jiang Ru's sleeve, pitifully asking, "Ruoruo, can I wear a mask when I go out?"
Upon hearing this, Jiang Ru's eyes suddenly brightened.
Right! Why didn't she think of that solution?
"Sure, I'll buy you a mask when I come back."
Seeing Jiang Ru's departure in a horse-drawn carriage, the atmosphere in the courtyard froze.
Because, the moment Jiang Ru left in the carriage, someone's expression immediately changed.
Xiao Chengjin squinted dangerously and surveyed everyone.
The servants thought: Is he really our master? He's so unpredictable.
With the mistress not around, they decided to take it easy.
After a long while, Xiao Chengjin snorted coldly and went straight to the study.
With Jiang Ru around, he didn't want to argue with them. But if Jiang Ru left, he'd act arrogantly and test them.
On the roadside of the village, a group of gossiping women watched as the carriage approached slowly, their eyes gleaming with curiosity.
They glanced at each other and began to whisper among themselves.
"Have you heard? The man from that new family is paralyzed."
"Yeah! It's such a pity for that pretty wife of theirs."
...
Jiang Ru sat in the carriage, listening to the conversation among the women with a raised eyebrow.
Look at the power of the village's gossipy ladies. With just a glance, they act like they have all the juicy details.
The chatterbox, Mrs. Wang, glanced at the extravagant carriage and rolled her eyes with a malicious tone, "What a pity! Her husband is paralyzed; maybe she's the one who caused it!"
An Tern, the coachman, heard the spiteful words and a hint of anger flashed in his eyes. How dare they insult their master; it's like they're begging for trouble!
He was about to intervene when a soft cough from inside the carriage stopped him.
After hearing Mrs. Wang's words, Jiang Ru's lips curled into a cold smile.
Dare to say I'm better at being a husband? I'll show you how good I am!
She lifted a corner of the carriage curtain and flicked a small silver coin the size of a soybean out of the carriage window...
In the next moment, a miserable scream echoed.
"Ah... my mouth..."
Mrs. Wang covered her bleeding mouth, looking around in terror.
Who did this?
How could someone dare to harm another in broad daylight?
An Tern, with a stern face, looked at the pitiable state of Mrs. Wang and gave her a look that said, "Serves you right."
Mrs. Wang, covering her mouth, surveyed the situation. She happened to see An Tern's hostile gaze.
In her thoughts, she wondered, could it be... he did it?
Listening to Mrs. Wang's cries, Jiang Ru, hiding behind the curtain, watched the drama unfold with great interest.
Heh heh! Those who speak ill of me must pay the price.
Several women were frightened by the sudden turn of events.
They had just wanted to inquire about Mrs. Wang's condition when they suddenly noticed a small silver coin on the ground.
So, they all rushed towards the silver coin on the ground...
A few of the elderly women fought over the single silver coin, unwilling to give in. As a result, they ended up in a brawl.
Jiang Ru: Let the fight commence...
"This is my silver coin."
"No, it's clearly mine."
...
Seeing the situation, Mrs. Wang realized it was not going well and took the opportunity, while the women were still fighting, to slip away.
Jiang Ru, leaning out of the carriage window, watched the women with disheveled hair fighting with each other, her eyes filled with amusement.
She wondered who would win this battle.
Hehe! This silver coin was well spent.
Because the battle was so intense and the silver coin was tiny, it disappeared among the struggling women.
In the end, they reached an agreement that whoever found it would keep it.
So, a few women with messy hair grumbled as they searched for the missing silver coin on the ground.
They were determined to find it; after all, they couldn't let money slip through their fingers.
After dealing with the commotion, Jiang Ru continued to Zheng Lizheng's house.
The homeowner was delighted to hear that someone was willing to buy his property.
During their conversation, the homeowner didn't hide the fact that he had some well-connected relatives in the village.
Jiang Ru made it clear that once the courtyard was purchased, it was hers, and she wasn't afraid of any trouble.
In the end, the homeowner sold the house to Jiang Ru at seventy-eight percent of the price.
After finalizing the deal, they all went to the government office to process the property deed.
...
Government Office.
When Fan Qiyun learned that Jiang Ru was there to handle the property deed, he quickly set aside his paperwork and personally welcomed them into the reception room.
Once they were seated, Fan Qiyun ordered tea and said with a smile, "Mrs. Xiao, this is the new property deed we've prepared for you."
Upon hearing this, Jiang Ru smiled and said, "Thank you very much, Lord Fan."
Steward Guo received a discreet signal from Fan Qiyun and promptly brought over the necessary writing materials.
After drafting the new property deed, Jiang Ru had the homeowner count the money in front of her.
When Jiang Ru volunteered to pay the deed tax, Fan Qiyun immediately declined.
Fan Qiyun couldn't help but think secretly: Mrs. Xiao, please don't joke with us. If your husband wishes to sit on that throne, the entire Grand Yan Empire will be yours.
Chapter 89: The Big Boss's Image Takes a Hit
Before departing, Fan Qiyun remembered the report he had received from the yamen's runners recently. Over the past few days, several county magistrates from Jizhou had submitted documents with the same content: consecutive days without rain and soaring temperatures were causing the fields to crack, and the crops were facing drought.
He had an uneasy feeling about the word "drought," and it lingered in his mind, refusing to fade away. Because of this, he had been quite restless for the past couple of days.
He looked at the respectful Zheng Lizheng with a tinge of worry and said, "Zheng Lizheng, when you return, discreetly inform the villagers to buy some rice and store it if they have silver."
Zheng Lizheng, after being named, was momentarily stunned. Upon realizing what Fan Qiyun meant, he hurriedly nodded and bowed, saying, "This humble one will remember."
Jiang Ru, sitting on the side, listened to their conversation and breathed a sigh of relief. Regardless of the circumstances, the fact that they took this matter seriously was a good sign. As long as they paid attention, it could be resolved.
After leaving the government office, Jiang Ru pulled Fan Qiyun aside.
She pointed to the scorching sun overhead, her expression grave. "Lord Fan, I've read about similar situations in books before, and the current situation is truly worrisome."
"The only solution is for you to promptly report the current situation to the court and, at the same time, issue orders to the officials below to organize the villagers in each village to dig wells for water."
"Furthermore, during these special times, be vigilant against unscrupulous merchants raising grain prices."
"As long as officials and the people work together, even the greatest difficulties can be overcome."
Fan Qiyun listened to Jiang Ru's words and felt considerably reassured.
Digging wells for water seemed like a good idea.
"Mrs. Xiao, thank you for your guidance. This prefecture will handle this matter well."
Jiang Ru nodded, bid farewell to Fan Qiyun, and left with Zheng Lizheng.
Fan Qiyun watched Jiang Ru's departing figure and nodded approvingly.
This woman is intelligent and insightful, a true blessing to that lord!
...
Passing by a restaurant, Jiang Ru, in gratitude, invited Zheng Lizheng to have lunch.
Zheng Lizheng initially declined but eventually entered the restaurant with a forced smile. This was one of the top restaurants in Jizhou, and he could boast about it to the other village heads back home.
During the meal, Jiang Ru discussed the current situation with Zheng Lizheng.
She explained that prolonged drought could lead to the drying up of rivers, and she suggested that Zheng Lizheng organize the villagers to dig two wells.
Zheng Lizheng nodded in agreement, realizing that this needed to be done promptly; delaying it could lead to serious consequences.
Jiang Ru enjoyed her lunch, knowing that she had accomplished several important tasks during this trip. Afterward, she could comfortably stay at home and tease her little puppy.
On the way back, Jiang Ru asked An Tern to stop the carriage and went to a shop to buy a silver mask for Xiao Chengjin.
In the courtyard, Xiao Chengjin sat under a tree, pretending to read a book. In reality, his mind wasn't on the book at all.
At this moment, sweat beads formed on his forehead, and his fair face was turning red from the sun. He wiped the sweat off his forehead with a handkerchief, looking quite aggrieved.
Ruoruo had been gone for so long. Why hadn't she returned yet? If this continued, he might faint from the heat before she came back.
In the front courtyard, Steward Lin and a few others who were enjoying the shade wore puzzled expressions as they looked at Xiao Chengjin under the tree.
Could their young master have hit his head or something?
On such a scorching day, wasn't it better to read in the study or the hall rather than outside? What's more, their young master was putting on a "don't bother me" kind of resistance expression.
No, they had to go out and advise him. It would be better than allowing the young master to suffer until their Mistress returned, and then he would have to face her anger.
On the other hand, Ji Yunce and his two companions cast disdainful glances at Xiao Chengjin under the tree, internally scoffing, "Hmph! This sly guy is trying the 'pretend to be suffering' trick. Your servant may fall for it, but we won't. How can you, a deeply calculating man, not have succumbed to the sun yet?"
As Steward Lin approached under the tree, the carriage arrived at the gate.
When Xiao Chengjin heard the commotion outside the gate, his expression immediately changed from delight to resentment.
Steward Lin had just been about to advise him to go back inside to avoid the heat when he saw Xiao Chengjin's expression change. He instantly had a bad feeling about this.
Oh, from the looks of it, their young master must be plotting something mischievous.
Xiao Chengjin seized the opportunity. The moment Jiang Ru stepped through the gate into the house, he quickly got up from his seat and approached with a face full of grievances.
Leaving Steward Lin alone under the tree in confusion.
"Ruoruo, you've finally returned," Xiao Chengjin said, holding Jiang Ru's hand affectionately. When he lowered his head, there was a glint in his eyes.
Ruoruo would surely feel sorry for him.
Jiang Ru looked at Steward Lin under the tree and then at Xiao Chengjin's sweaty forehead, feeling a bit puzzled.
On such a hot day, were they competing to see who could withstand the sun?
Xiao Chengjin raised his head, showing Jiang Ru his reddened cheeks. Jiang Ru met his deep, captivating gaze, and her heart skipped a beat.
Hehe, this man's good looks... truly tempting.
"After this, wait for me in the hall. Isn't it too hot outside? Aren't you afraid of getting heatstroke?" Jiang Ru scolded sternly, then took out a handkerchief to wipe away the sweat on his forehead.
Xiao Chengjin sensed Jiang Ru's gentle actions, and his already red cheeks turned even redder.
Jiang Ru appeared carefree on the surface, but in reality, she had a soft heart. She liked the combination of her being both tough and gentle.
Jiang Ru: "..."
Hehe, he's still just an innocent big puppy.
After scratching his head, Steward Lin slowly approached. "Master, did everything go smoothly on this trip?"
"The property deed has been settled. From now on, this place is our home," Jiang Ru said, stopping her actions of wiping away Xiao Chengjin's sweat due to Steward Lin's arrival.
With Steward Lin appearing, Xiao Chengjin's wonderful mood instantly disappeared. He couldn't help but think, "This useless servant is interfering. He's genuinely dispensable."
Couldn't he see that the masters were in a loving mood?
Jiang Ru, seeing Xiao Chengjin's displeased expression, immediately understood the reason behind it.
Alright! The scheming little puppy has come online.
She adjusted her expression and said, "It's too hot. Let's go back to the hall."
Xiao Chengjin, hearing this, immediately took Jiang Ru's hand and said with a heartache, "Ruoruo, you've worked so hard."
As Ruoruo's husband, he felt that he hadn't done enough. He would reflect on this.
Xiao Chengjin glanced at the meddling Steward Lin, and shouted displeasedly, "Dog servant, quickly prepare tea and pastries for Ruoruo." After yelling, he pulled Jiang Ru and returned to the hall.
Jiang Ru, who had put a lot of effort into this home, couldn't help but feel a little disappointed. These servants didn't show any sympathy for her.
Xiao Chengjin smoothly executed his actions, leaving everyone in a daze.
Seeing that Xiao Chengjin was occupying Jiang Ru's attention, Dong Xue and Liu Mama stopped trying to approach their Mistress.
They both thought: As long as this young master is here, they won't be able to get close to the mistress.
Xiao Chengjin seemed to sense their intentions. With a stern expression, he said to them, "What are you waiting for? Quickly go fetch some water for Ruoruo."
With that, Dong Xue and Liu Mama suddenly realized that they had been negligent in their duties as servants.
In Xiao Chengjin's triumphant gaze, they hurriedly said, "We'll get to it right away," before bowing and retreating.
Xiao Chengjin, after restraining his triumphant expression, casually whispered, "Ruoruo, these servants have become increasingly unruly."
Jiang Ru, who saw through everything, nodded with a fond smile.
The big boss's image has crumbled into a puppy.
What to do?
Just let him act!
Chapter 90: Is This Situation... a Confession?
The night grew deeper, but Jiang Ru, who was cooling off in the courtyard, was reluctant to return to her room. Xiao Chengjin's gaze was a bit too intense, and she suddenly felt a bit flustered.
Though they were technically husband and wife, being alone together in the middle of the night felt a bit... awkward.
When the sly guy was unconscious, he was like a "vegetable," and now that he's awake... she continued treating him like a "vegetable."
Fine, let's go with that.
Xiao Chengjin, who was sitting to the side, saw through Jiang Ru's thoughts. He got up, walked over to her chair, and whispered, "Ruoruo, let's go to our room. I have something to discuss with you."
Hearing his low, magnetic voice, Jiang Ru's face blushed, and her heart raced. "Alright."
While Jiang Ru got up, Xiao Chengjin seized her hand, and the two of them walked hand in hand back to their room.
Inside the room, after Xiao Chengjin closed the door, he gently approached Jiang Ru and tenderly embraced her, holding her close.
Faced with the unexpected hug, Jiang Ru subconsciously moved back a little.
In her mind, she thought, "On such a hot day, why hug?"
Sensing her resistance, Xiao Chengjin tilted his lips slightly and gently pressed her head against his chest.
"Ruoruo, I should make a promise to you. And I should give you a grand wedding."
Listening to Xiao Chengjin's heartbeat, Jiang Ru blinked her eyes.
What's happening?
Why do I suddenly feel weak in the knees?
At that moment, a voice echoed in her mind: "Jiang Ru, with a handsome man in your arms, you should take the initiative, then do this and that..."
Another voice: "I dare not."
"Jiang Ru, you coward, I look down on you! If you can, then go for it..."
Jiang Ru steadied her thoughts and pushed those voices out of her mind.
Xiao Chengjin pursed his lips and slowly said, "Ruoruo, if you're willing, I'm ready to marry you with the whole world as our witness. But before that, I won't cross any boundaries with you. You can trust me."
He looked down at the little head resting on his chest.
Listening to these words, Jiang Ru's heart couldn't help but flutter.
In her previous life, she didn't even have the chance to date anyone.
Is this situation... considered a confession?
Jiang Ru felt delighted, thinking, "This is the first time in both of my lifetimes that a guy has confessed to me. I mustn't ruin this wonderful atmosphere."
Haha, she wanted to show off to that old man.
Although the old man was no longer here, she believed that he would bless her from another world.
Thinking of this, a trace of bitterness welled up in Jiang Ru's heart.
Old man, it would have been great if you were here.
Xiao Chengjin noticed Jiang Ru's change in mood and gently patted her back.
"Ruoruo, will you tell me your secret?"
Through conversations with Dong Xue and Liu Mama, he was certain that his Ruoruo was not the same as the Jiang Ru from the Prime Minister's residence. So, he could only wait.
Jiang Ru snapped back from her distant thoughts and looked into his deep and affectionate eyes.
"Marry me with the whole world as our witness? It's a great idea, but it might not be realistic in this world. Let's clarify things now to avoid future complications."
Of course, no one could predict what would happen in the future.
Hmph! If it really comes to that, I'll... cross that bridge when I get there.
Jiang Ru raised her hand and pinched Xiao Chengjin's chin. "My man will only have one woman in his life. Can you promise that?"
Upon hearing this, Xiao Chengjin's eyes sparkled. "Ruoruo, I can promise that. One life, one partner, suits me perfectly."
Xiao Chengjin contemplated that if Jiang Ru didn't trust him, he was willing to swear an oath with his life.
Looking into his eyes, full of tenderness, Jiang Ru nodded with satisfaction. "It's getting late; let's rest early."
After saying this, she walked straight to the bed.
Xiao Chengjin watched her lying on the bed and couldn't help but blush.
After extinguishing the candles on the desk, he hesitated and slowly approached the bed...
Sharing a bed... was a bit nerve-wracking.
As Jiang Ru lay beside Xiao Chengjin, she quickly closed her eyes.
In her mind, she silently repeated, "He's a 'vegetable'..."
It wasn't until she became extremely tired that she finally drifted off to sleep.
Xiao Chengjin, listening to her steady breathing, opened his eyes in the darkness.
He gently held the small hand beside him and whispered, "Father, Mother, Jin'er is not alone anymore..."
At dawn, Zheng Lizheng, accompanied by a drum, toured the village and went directly to the open space at the village entrance.
Hearing the sound of the drum, the villagers gathered together, buzzing with discussion.
Had something significant happened?
Some of the women grumbled, saying it was too early, disturbing their sleep.
As a result, the villagers formed groups and headed to the open space at the village entrance.
Observing the villagers walking in groups, Jiang Ru knew that Zheng Lizheng was calling for a meeting.
She returned to the courtyard and called for Xiao Chengjin to follow.
As members of the village, they had to participate.
Jiang Ru glanced back at Xiao Chengjin. "Xiao Chengjin, hurry up."
Being a bit hesitant, he had worn a mask, saying, "Ruoruo, they don't know me. Whether I wear a mask or not doesn't matter, right?"
Jiang Ru thought for a moment and realized there was some truth to what Xiao Chengjin said. However, upon further consideration, she decided to reject his request.
"I'll tell you, you must wear the mask when you go out."
Xiao Chengjin took the opportunity to make a small request. "Let me wear the mask, but Ruoruo, promise me that no matter where you go, you'll take me with you." Including that mysterious place.
This morning, when he opened his eyes, Ruoruo had disappeared right before him, and he was immediately drenched in cold sweat.
Jiang Ru, without realizing Xiao Chengjin's ulterior motive, agreed readily. "Okay, I'll take you with me."
Satisfied with the answer, Xiao Chengjin quickly followed Jiang Ru's steps.
In total, the village had over a hundred households, and Zheng Lizheng could make a rough estimate.
Once everyone had gathered, Zheng Lizheng struck the drum to signal for silence and then proceeded to explain the reason for summoning everyone.
"Dear fellow villagers, for those of you who have money on hand, hurry to the town and buy some rice to store. But remember, don't make it known to the public..."
...
After Zheng Lizheng finished speaking, the villagers understood what he meant.
First, buy and store rice.
Second, each family should send one strong laborer to help dig a well.
Zheng Lizheng's intention was clear: there might be a drought!
For a moment, the villagers grew anxious and uneasy.
Some of the women complained that they were being asked to buy rice, questioning why it was their husbands who were tasked with well digging.
Jiang Ru, who was eavesdropping on the dissatisfied women's remarks, couldn't help but smile sarcastically.
Well, we don't need to dig the well.
But when you need water, don't regret it!