The King of Qi recalled some rumors and deliberately changed the subject: “Who can predict matters of marriage? The Marquis just returned to the capital, and his mansion must be in chaos. It’s not appropriate for you to go now.” He gently held Fu Ling’s hand, “Wait a couple more days until he’s settled, then you can visit. How’s that?”
Fu Ling’s eyes brightened, “Is the King willing to let this wife leave the mansion?”
The King of Qi kissed her cheek and softly laughed, “He’s your own brother, not an outsider. Only promise me to take care of yourself, don’t be rash…”
Fu Ling’s face instantly flushed, making her even more radiant. She lowered her head and softly said, “I understand.”
Today was overcast, the wind colder than usual, looking like rain was imminent. Fu Shen’s wounds were most sensitive to this weather, causing endless pain that irritated him. He was about to have someone push him to the study to distract himself with some idle books when a servant reported that the King of Qi’s wife was personally coming to visit, with her carriage already at the door.
Fu Shen immediately felt a headache: “This troublemaker… Help me up. Fu Bo, have Xiao Chun and the personal guards step back, and control the servants in the back courtyard to avoid offending her. Have the King’s wife wait in the main hall. Find a couple of matrons or young servants to attend to her. I’ll change and come over after.”
In the main hall, Fu Ling nervously wrung her handkerchief, unable to focus on tea. Moments later, the sound of wheels rolling came from inside. She abruptly stood up, turning to meet Fu Shen’s gaze as he sat in the wheelchair.
Fu Shen seemed unprepared, clearly stunned for a moment.
Fu Ling stared blankly, seemingly forgetting how to speak. The invincible big brother in her memory was now broken, awkwardly seated in a simple bamboo wheelchair, his features sharp from excessive weight loss, offering an unfamiliar smile.
Fu Ling could no longer hold back, rushing to him and wailing loudly.
The accompanying servants were terrified. Fu Shen was pushed back but steadily caught her in his arms: “My goodness, gentle… Little sister, are you still seven years old?”
