Suxi, dismissing Xiaolian’s repeated concerns, said, “Xiaolian, go out first. I’m going to get dressed.”
“It’s still early. You must have been tired last night. Sleep a bit more,” Xiaolian advised, choosing not to mention his talk with Jinyu, wanting to spare Suxi any sadness. Although Suxi hadn’t voiced it, he hoped to marry Jinyu. Learning that she wouldn’t marry him would surely break his heart.
Suxi gathered his clothes and urged Xiaolian out, “No, I want to get up early. I’ll prepare all the meals tonight.”
Xiaolian was surprised, “Why? You’ve already worked hard. I can help.”
Suxi’s face flushed at the thought of Jinyu visiting that evening, his eyes softening. “I’m not tired. I’ll handle everything myself.”
Xiaolian suddenly realized, “She’s not coming over again tonight, is she? She’s already been here for two consecutive days. Isn’t she satisfied? How can your body endure this?”
“Angry, very angry, his small chest heaving, his small fists clenched, his angry eyes full of displeasure.
“Xiaolian,” Suxi urged, “My body will be fine. Go out quickly.”
That woman was not only coming to torment his brother tonight but also enchanting him to cook despite his exhaustion. This couldn’t continue; his brother’s health was at stake. Suxi felt it was his duty to protect him in his infatuation.
Xiaolian resisted, tucking Suxi’s blanket tightly. “Brother, sleep a bit more. I’ll go boil hot water for your bath…” He would also ensure his brother took more of the supplements she sent over to nourish him. Xiaolian furrowed his brow, wondering if those pills were truly sweet. Perhaps he could try them if there were extras.
Suxi stared blankly at the determined Xiaolian, responding with a dazed “Mm.”
As Xiaolian walked out satisfied, he noticed the pillow that had fallen last night, remembering the scene and blushing. Before Suxi could notice, he picked it up, covering his cheeks, and ran out.
Suxi came to his senses, his long eyelashes trembling. His gaze swept over his slender arm, where clear red marks remained, and his eyes filled with tenderness.
Usually, she would move roughly on him to vent, but this time, she was gentle, as if in a dream.
