“Get up!” Xu Wanzhi said clearly: “I do not need you to kneel. I’m only telling you that I’ve come to find Qu Xiaojue because of what she’s done for me. As for others, whatever their thoughts, it has nothing to do with me, and I’m not interested in hearing anyone’s sarcasm. Regardless of whether I’m your master or not, you must show me proper respect!”
“Yes,” Qu Shan no longer objected, leading him to the Jue courtyard and silently withdrawing. Xu Wanzhi knocked on the door, and after a moment, a low voice from inside said, “Come in.”
He pushed the door open, entering Qu Xiaojue’s bedroom for the second time, feeling very different from his first visit. The room flickered with a warm, yellowish candlelight.
“…Qu Xiaojue.”
She reclined on the bed, holding a book, her eyes showing clear surprise at the sudden appearance, staring intently. Hearing him call her name, she gradually collected herself and stared at him.
Xu Wanzhi narrowed his eyes, carefully observing her expression, and sighed, “You’re injured? At least you’re still okay.”
Qu Xiaojue threw aside her book and laughed coldly, “What kind of words are these from my husband? I’d probably be better off dead!”
“I’m sorry,” he apologized sincerely, then turned to say, “Rest well, I’ll come see you tomorrow.” Qu Xiaojue trembled with anger, shouting, “Come back!”
Xu Wanzhi paused, turning back to approach the bedside. Qu Xiaojue grabbed his hand tightly, her cold voice trembling, “I’m betting on how heartless you can be.”
Her grip was intense. Xu Wanzhi sighed apologetically, “Qu Xiaojue, I’m not Xu Wan, nor am I your husband. I didn’t explain clearly before, which caused you to rush about and get injured. I’m truly sorry.”
Is an apology enough? Qu Xiaojue took a deep breath and snorted, her gaze fixed on his eyes, asking, “What if I had died?”
“If you had died, I would immediately repay you with my life.”
“So what attitude are you returning with now? To repay my life?
Her face was noticeably thinner, her fierce expression inducing guilt. Xu Wanzhi turned away, saying, “As you wish.”
“Xu Wanzhi,” she suddenly called his real name, patting the space beside her, “Come up.”
