Chapter 281: The Allure of Temptation [Part 3]
Ye Wenxin finally showed a flicker of apprehension. Lady Yu's suggestion seemed like a nightmare. "I don't think that's a good idea," she protested.
"If Miss Wenxin is going, why can't I?" Lady Yu replied coolly, genuinely resolved to accompany Ye Wenxin. Initially, Ye Wenxin intended to visit the brothel to relieve stress from her recurring nightmares. But if Lady Yu joined, she feared it might dampen the atmosphere.
However, considering Lady Yu's background, there was no proper reason for her to visit a brothel. Now seemed as good a time as any, so Ye Wenxin pondered for a moment before saying, "Could you wait a moment? I'll check with them."
Lady Yu nodded, approving of Ye Wenxin's decisive yet considerate approach. "Decisive but not dictatorial, Miss Wenxin. That's commendable."
Uncertain whether it was praise or sarcasm, Ye Wenxin didn't dwell on it. She excused herself and informed the Wenxin Gang about Lady Yu's decision to join them.
Expecting reluctance or hesitation, she was surprised to find everyone elated, eager for Lady Yu's company.
"But Boss, is it really okay for you to visit a brothel? What if your lovers find out..." Instead, they worried about Ye Wenxin's situation. Despite her repeated denials of having lovers or romantic interests, no one believed her.
Intending to discuss Lady Yu, she spent much of the time defending her innocence. Returning to Lady Yu, she relayed the group's approval.
Lady Yu seemed unsurprised, while Ye Wenxin struggled to comprehend their perspective.
"In the world's eyes, I lead a miserable life. To them, maybe I'm the one who needs comfort the most," Lady Yu mused, leaving Ye Wenxin to ponder the logic.
Her words resonated, making sense. Lady Yu smiled and asked, "Miss Wenxin, what should I wear tonight?"
Ye Wenxin, seeing Lady Yu's rare openness and request for her opinion, replied, "Anything looks good on you."
Her response lacked tact, and Lady Yu turned away, "I'll wear this. Changing is a hassle."
With that, she left.
Perplexed by Lady Yu's behavior, Ye Wenxin felt she had fulfilled her duties and sought out Huang Hanyan to explain the situation.
Huang Hanyan, after a moment's silence, decided to stay at the inn.
"Sister Hanyan, aren't you going to relax?"
"No, I'd only feel worse," Huang Hanyan replied, hinting at her disapproval. Her gaze seemed to chastise Ye Wenxin for seeking out other women instead of appreciating her company.
Ye Wenxin managed a wry smile, suddenly understanding why people frequented brothels—paying for services without responsibility. Outside, even with verbal assurances, her nature compelled her to commit if she engaged.
Moreover, it wasn't true affection. Gazing at her peach blossom fortune, Ye Wenxin sensed her life was tinged with romantic mischief...
As night fell, Green Island Manor's carriage took them not to its usual destination, but to the bustling Red-Light Alley.
The alley was crowded with people, some in plain clothes, others in cultivator garb, and the most brazen were disciples of the Asura Hall, flaunting their robes.