Moonlit Reunion [子夜归]

Chapter 19

Although he seemed a bit reserved, he was unexpectedly soft when kissed. Wu Zhen released Mei Zhuyu, noticing his dazed expression, lips slightly moving as if mumbling something.

Standing close, she caught a few scattered words: "Constantly... calm... quiet..."

Huh? Wu Zhen thought for a moment, then it clicked—he was reciting the Qingjing Sutra! Of all responses to being kissed, reciting scripture was definitely unexpected. If anyone heard, they'd laugh for sure.

She couldn't help it; a chuckle escaped her. Seeing his blank face still leaning in the awkward position she'd pulled him into, she patted him on the chest, grinning, "Back to reality, my lord."

But her playful pat was a bit too much; the poor lord toppled backward into the flowerbed, scattering pink petals everywhere.

The fall finally snapped Mei Zhuyu back to his senses. He propped himself up, setting aside the fallen flower branches. Suddenly, his view dimmed—Wu Zhen was now crouched in front of him, her expression curious as she softly asked, "My lord, would you mind if we moved up our wedding date a bit?"

Wu Zhen had always admired beauty, enjoying outings with lovely ladies and lords alike, but only with a heart of appreciation. She'd never felt improper urges. Yet, seeing him lying flustered among the flowers, lips pressed tight, his neck flushed, she found herself feeling... impulsive.

She couldn't understand why this quiet, unremarkable lord, not fond of talking or crowds, appealed to her more than any handsome face.

Mei Zhuyu, caught off guard by her question, murmured in confusion, "...move up?"

Wu Zhen shrugged. "Well, since you're a lord who starts chanting scripture when kissed, I thought you'd be against any closeness before marriage."

Mei Zhuyu's chest rose with a steadying breath, and he replied quickly, "No, I want to marry you. There's nothing wrong with you—it's me who's out of place." Having grown up in a secluded temple, he felt detached from the ways of the world, uncertain how to interact with women. Reflecting on his awkward reaction just now, he wondered if he was too restrained. Yet he couldn't imagine behaving differently.

Wu Zhen fell silent, observing his earnest, steady gaze and faintly apprehensive face. A blood-red azalea petal rested against his chest, mirroring the blush still fading from his ears. She plucked it gently, then extended a hand to pull him up from the flowers.

As they walked together, Wu Zhen toyed with the crimson petal, lost in thought. She popped the flower into her mouth, enjoying its tangy taste. Locals often harvested these edible flowers in bunches to sell in the city, where they'd be made into flower cakes and delicacies.

Just then, she felt her wrist tugged and turned to see Mei Zhuyu holding her arm.

"As long as you want it, I'll support whatever you choose to do." His voice was serious, as though he'd mulled it over for a while.

Wu Zhen stumbled slightly, nearly losing her balance.

What was this about? Was her age finally catching up with her, affecting her composure? She mused.

Seeing her stagger, Mei Zhuyu frowned and quickly bent down to examine her foot. "Did you sprain it?"

She had indeed twisted it a little, though it wasn't serious. Noticing his concern, Wu Zhen smiled and said casually, "I think I did. Maybe... you could carry me?"

She doubted his strength, but, to her surprise, Mei Zhuyu immediately bent down and lifted her onto his back.

Settling onto his surprisingly sturdy back, Wu Zhen felt the solid muscles supporting her with ease as he carried her up the narrow path without breaking a sweat. How deceptive—though slim, he had the strength to carry her without tiring. Perhaps he was stronger than she thought—or maybe she was lighter than she assumed?