Fortune Across the World

Chapter 174: Tender Care for Wounds

In that moment, Le Zhuyi entertained a fleeting, reckless thought: what if she could spend her life in this peaceful world with the little carpenter? It seemed like such a happy possibility. But this fantasy lingered only for a moment before she dismissed it. She couldn't continue to let down her mother and her sisters, and the little carpenter had her own family and career. Dreaming of an idyllic life away from the world was enough as a daydream. With these thoughts, Le Zhuyi swallowed the bitterness in her throat, closed her eyes to hold back tears, and after a moment, spoke in as calm a voice as she could muster: "There must still be a way. Once I'm a bit better, we'll find a way out together."

Ding Qiyu noticed the slight sadness in her words, feeling a pang of pain herself, but knew not how to comfort her. She too understood that despite their connection, she and Zhuyi were ultimately star-crossed. Controlling her own heartache, Ding Qiyu closed her eyes, leaning her head slightly towards Le Zhuyi, inhaling the scent of her hair. Aunt Jade had washed it again, and though the fragrance was different from the usual rose scent, it was just as comforting: "Yes, Zhuyi, focus on healing. Don't worry too much about other things. Why did Le Mengxiao betray Qianli Palace?" She subtly shifted the conversation.

Le Zhuyi also preferred not to dwell on unchangeable matters. Having survived life's trials, and by chance arriving in this secluded mountain with the little carpenter, she chose to cherish the time they had together. Life was short; perhaps a single shared moment could provide a lifetime of memories...

Composed, Le Zhuyi responded to Ding Qiyu's question: "Senior Sister Xiao probably wanted the position of Qianli Palace's successor." She didn't believe Senior Sister Xiao intended to destroy the palace. Considering the changes in Senior Sister Xiao's attitude towards her over the years and the rumors among the sisters, it seemed Senior Sister Xiao resented her.

Even now, she still called her "Senior Sister," indicating Zhuyi's sorrow over Le Mengxiao's betrayal. Ding Qiyu refrained from criticizing Le Mengxiao and chose to focus on the positive: "If that's the case, then the other sisters in Qianli Palace should be safe."

Ding Qiyu's words offered Le Zhuyi some comfort, and she nodded slightly, resting quietly in Ding Qiyu's arms. As long as the little carpenter held her, even in silence, her heart was filled with joy.

Ding Qiyu remembered that Zhuyi hadn't eaten since waking up: "Zhuyi, are you hungry?" She recalled how hungry she'd been upon waking. Having only given Zhuyi medicine earlier, she worried she might feel uncomfortable. Before Zhuyi could answer, Ding Qiyu gently continued, "I'll make some hot porridge to warm your stomach, okay?"

Le Zhuyi adored her pampering tone, feeling sweetly content. She looked up and asked, "What about your injuries? Does it hurt?"

Smiling, Ding Qiyu reassured her, "I'm fine now. I once had a fortuitous experience that made my body different from others, so I heal quickly. Don't worry, Zhuyi." She playfully punched her own shoulder.

"Don't!" Le Zhuyi's heart ached as she grabbed Ding Qiyu's arm. Seeing her energetic demeanor and knowing Aunt Jade hadn't mentioned her injuries, she relaxed, "Alright, I'm hungry~" In truth, she wasn't very hungry but wanted to enjoy being cared for.

"Okay, the little carpenter will quickly make something for Zhuyi." Ding Qiyu cheerfully responded, gently laying Zhuyi back on the bed before dashing out of the room.

In the kitchen, she heated the porridge, using the time to fetch hot water and help Zhuyi freshen up after waking. By the time she returned for the porridge, everything was ready. Watching from the courtyard, Aunt Jade felt a sense of admiration—Yu'er truly knew how to care for someone.