Destined

The moment Gu Jiusi fainted, the entire mansion was thrown into chaos.

Jiang Rou and Gu Langhua rushed over immediately. Seeing how much thinner Gu Jiusi had become in just a few days, their hearts ached with distress.

Jiang Rou sought out Liu Yuru and cautiously said, "Yuru, everything should be done gradually and not in haste. My child has never suffered much since he was young. If you push him so hard all at once, something bad might happen."

Liu Yuru sighed. She knew Gu Jiusi had never endured hardship, but she never expected him to be this fragile. He seemed so full of energy, yet he fainted so suddenly—it was truly rare. She lowered her head and said, "Mother-in-law, you are right. Yuru admits her mistake."

Seeing Liu Yuru concede, Jiang Rou felt it inappropriate to say more. However, as she observed Liu Yuru's expression, she knew Liu Yuru would not give up so easily. Gazing at Gu Jiusi lying on the bed, her heart filled with pain, and she slowly said, "Yuru, in this life, there are many paths one can take, and it’s not necessarily about studying. If Jiusi isn’t suited for it, don’t force him..."

"Then what is he suited for?" Hearing this, Liu Yuru looked up and calmly met Jiang Rou’s gaze.

Jiang Rou was momentarily speechless.

Liu Yuru repeated, "What does Mother-in-law think my husband is suited for?"

Jiang Rou fell silent. Liu Yuru tentatively suggested, "My husband is highly skilled in martial arts. Why not send him to the military..."

"No, no," Jiang Rou immediately objected, "Jiusi is our only child. The battlefield is perilous—if anything were to happen to him..."

"Mother-in-law," Liu Yuru sighed, "in my eyes, you have always been an extremely wise woman. Why is it that when it comes to my husband, you cannot see clearly?"

"If the path of martial arts is not feasible, then he must pursue the path of scholarship. Whether in business or officialdom, is there any path that does not require studying? Since he must study, of course, he should aim for the highest achievement. In Yangzhou today, which wealthy family does not have a few descendants serving as officials? My husband has no brothers. If he does not strive for an official rank in the future, he will have to rely on his cousins to do so. These relatives are all in the Eastern Capital, while you are far away in Yangzhou. When you two grow old and my husband must uphold the Gu Family, will they still grant Jiusi such favors?"

These words left Jiang Rou silent. Liu Yuru continued slowly, "Even if they do grant favors, my husband would merely be a merchant, his status ultimately inferior. You and Father-in-law are already the wealthiest in Yangzhou, yet if my uncle from the Eastern Capital came to take my husband away, you would be powerless to stop him, isn’t that so? Rather than relying on others, it is better to stand on one’s own. You must think of my husband’s future. You must understand that the reason he must endure such hardship today is that he lived too carefree in his youth. The trials one must face in a lifetime are balanced—if one avoids the hardships they ought to endure now, they will be repaid twofold in the future. Don’t you agree?"

Jiang Rou listened to this and, after a long while, sighed and nodded, "You are right."

"Moreover," Liu Yuru took a sip of tea and added, "my husband is actually very intelligent. In recent times, I have observed his talents, and they are no less than anyone else’s. So, I hope that from now on, you and Father-in-law will no longer say that my husband cannot achieve something or that he is incapable. In my heart, even if he were to earn the title of Zhuangyuan, I would not find it surprising."

Jiang Rou quietly watched Liu Yuru, who lowered her head and said, "This daughter-in-law spoke out of turn in her haste and has been disrespectful.""It's alright," Jiang Rou let out a long breath. "You're right. Langhua and I were lost in confusion. Take good care of him."

As she spoke, Jiang Rou stood up and patted Liu Yuru's shoulder gently, saying, "You're a good child. I feel very reassured that Jiusi married you."

Liu Yuru felt a slight stir in her heart.

She lowered her gaze, feeling somewhat elated inside.

After all, she was only fifteen years old. Being praised by an elder inevitably made her feel a bit giddy.

However, she showed no expression on her face and respectfully escorted Jiang Rou out. At the doorway, Jiang Rou suddenly said, "Once Jiusi has recovered a bit and accompanied you on your return visit, find some time. I'll take you to see a few shops."

Liu Yuru was taken aback.

The Gu Family's business was too vast for Master Gu to manage alone, so some of the enterprises were entirely under Jiang Rou's control. In other families, this would be shocking—allowing a wife to manage businesses and negotiate with outsiders. But for the Gu Family, it was completely normal.

Liu Yuru knew that being asked to visit the shops was the first step toward entrusting her with the business.

Was Jiang Rou... planning for her to engage in commerce as well?!

Liu Yuru's heart raced.

She maintained a calm expression and agreed respectfully before seeing Jiang Rou off.

Suppressing her inner excitement, she returned to the inner room and found Gu Jiusi awake. His eyes were open, fixed on the bed canopy as if lost in thought.

Liu Yuru walked to Gu Jiusi's side, sat on the edge of the bed, and fanned him gently, asking, "Do you feel better, my husband?"

Gu Jiusi grunted in response, then sighed and said, "I'm fine now. Is it time to study?"

"Rest today," Liu Yuru said with a smile. "I'll keep you company and chat with you."

"Oh," Gu Jiusi replied indifferently. "I don't feel like talking."

"Then keep me company while I talk," Liu Yuru said, leaning against him and resting her head on her hand.

Gu Jiusi was amused by her words and laughed, looking at her. "Since when did you become so shameless?"

"Your mother asked me to accompany her to the shops," Liu Yuru said, trying to contain her excitement, though her smile was unmistakable.

Gu Jiusi sensed her joy and turned to her. "What's there to be so happy about? It's just a visit."

"I think she wants me to help her with the business," Liu Yuru added, assuming he didn't understand.

Gu Jiusi chuckled dismissively. "It's just business. Are you that thrilled?"

Then, recalling Liu Yuru's status in the Liu Family, he understood. After a moment's thought, he said, "If my mother asked you to accompany her, she probably wants to see if you have the aptitude. Didn't you want me to study and become an official? Our family's business can't be neglected. She's likely thinking that if I become an official, the Gu Family's enterprises will be entirely entrusted to you."

Hearing this, Liu Yuru widened her eyes. "You mean... you mean..."

"The Gu Family's future will all be yours," Gu Jiusi said, delighted by her stunned expression. He shifted to make room for her, leaning on his side with his head propped on his hand, and grinned. "What? Are you too happy to speak?"

Liu Yuru remained silent, taking a few deep breaths before asking nervously, "Do you think I can do it?"

Gu Jiusi was taken aback. It was the first time he had seen Liu Yuru so uncertain. He burst out laughing.

Liu Yuru was confused by his laughter and pushed him lightly in annoyance. "What are you laughing at?""Liu Yuru," he said cheerfully, "So you have days like this too?"

So it wasn't just him who felt uneasy facing the unknown.

Liu Yuru couldn't help reaching out to pinch Gu Jiusi, who quickly retreated deeper into the bed to avoid her, crying out: "Ouch, that hurts, that hurts! Have mercy on me, my lady! You're the fiercest and most formidable..."

Liu Yuru was amused by his antics, laughing while continuing to pinch him. After dodging for a while, Gu Jiusi finally couldn't take it anymore and grabbed her hand, saying: "Alright, alright, stop pinching. I admit defeat."

"Let go!"

Liu Yuru glared at him with feigned fierceness.

"Then you can't pinch me anymore."

With that, Gu Jiusi released her hand. Liu Yuru let out a "hmph" and got out of bed, telling him: "Rest for a while. Find some time in the next couple of days to accompany me on my homecoming visit."

The current custom in Yangzhou was to make the homecoming visit one month after marriage, and now was the time for it.

Gu Jiusi responded lazily, watching as Liu Yuru sat before the mirror. Propping his head up with his hand, he said gently: "Don't worry so much."

Liu Yuru, who was removing her hairpins, paused briefly in her movements. Gu Jiusi yawned and said: "Don't worry. If you can handle someone as difficult as me, you can definitely manage a few small shops."

Hearing this, Liu Yuru finally realized Gu Jiusi was referring to her taking over the family business.

Her movements hesitated, and after a long while, she lowered her eyes and responded: "Mm."

For the first time in many days, Gu Jiusi finally had a good night's sleep. When he woke up the next day, Liu Yuru saw that he looked refreshed and sent someone to the Liu family with a formal notice before taking Gu Jiusi back for her homecoming visit.

On the way to her family home, Liu Yuru kept instructing Gu Jiusi: "When we get to my home, speak less. Just act like you treat me well."

Gu Jiusi nodded earnestly and said: "Don't worry, I'll definitely help you save face."

"There's one more thing..." Liu Yuru frowned. Gu Jiusi looked up at her as she pondered and said: "I want to have Zhang Yue'er's youngest child adopted under my mother's name. You..."

Then she paused and said: "Never mind."

She thought this was too complicated a matter for Gu Jiusi to handle.

But Gu Jiusi glanced at her and already understood what she wanted to do. He pursed his lips, turned his head away, and said nothing more.

When Gu Jiusi brought Liu Yuru back to her family home, they had just arrived at the Liu residence gate when Liu Yuru saw Liu Xuan standing at the entrance with Su Wan, while Zhang Yue'er stood behind them together with Yun Yun.

This was the first time in many years that Su Wan had returned to this position. At first glance, Liu Yuru could tell her mother had been doing well recently. Her eyes reddened slightly as she lowered her head, then she felt Gu Jiusi take her hand. In full view of everyone, he said with exaggerated concern: "Why is my wife crying? Are you feeling unwell?"

Liu Yuru: "..."

No, I don't need such hypocritical and artificial concern from you.

But she couldn't embarrass Gu Jiusi in public, so she forced a smile and said softly: "I'm just crying tears of joy at seeing my parents."

With that, she led Gu Jiusi forward and paid respectful greetings to Su Wan and Liu Xuan.

Gu Jiusi's proper etiquette relieved Liu Xuan, who had always heard that Gu Jiusi was wild and unruly. He had been worried that Gu Jiusi would embarrass him in front of everyone, but unexpectedly Gu Jiusi showed him such respect, which immediately made him much happier. He promptly invited Gu Jiusi inside.Thus, Gu Jiusi accompanied Liu Xuan, while Liu Yuru supported Su Wan, and the entire family joyfully entered the Liu residence.

Gu Jiusi, determined to bring honor to Liu Yuru, spent the entire meal continuously serving her dishes and inquiring after her well-being. The others at the table exchanged glances, and Liu Yuru blushed deeply, yet Gu Jiusi remained completely unaware. Some of the servants nearby couldn't help but suppress their laughter. Zhang Yue'er felt disdainful, thinking Gu Jiusi lacked propriety, yet she couldn't help but envy him. Meanwhile, Su Wan, seeing how well Liu Yuru was doing, lowered her head to hide her tear-filled eyes.

After the meal, Gu Jiusi was pulled aside by Liu Xuan for drinks.

Perhaps because his expectations of Gu Jiusi had been so low, Liu Xuan was greatly impressed by even the slightest display of effort from him. Meanwhile, Liu Yuru was taken back to her room by Su Wan, who updated her on recent events: "Nowadays, Zhang Yue'er is entirely focused on Yun Yun and argues fiercely with your father. Your father finds them a headache and has been visiting me more frequently."

"I don't really mind whether he comes or not. But since others see him favoring me, they've started treating me much better."

"As for you," Su Wan looked at Liu Yuru with concern, "that Eldest Young Master Gu, is he..."

"He's very good," Liu Yuru replied with a soft smile. "Mother, Jiusi is much better than the rumors suggest. He treats me very well."

"At home," Su Wan asked somewhat hesitantly, gesturing toward the main hall, "is he like that too?"

Liu Yuru blushed and nodded, whispering, "Don't worry, he truly cares for me."

"That's good," Su Wan breathed a sigh of relief and nodded. "If a woman receives such affection from her husband, she has nothing to worry about in this lifetime."

Liu Yuru smiled without responding.

In the past, she would have agreed with Su Wan, but now she could no longer share that view. However, she knew Su Wan had held such beliefs all her life and that changing them would be difficult, so she simply continued chatting and smiling with her. After a while, remembering the purpose of her visit, Liu Yuru said to Su Wan, "Since your relationship with Father has improved, you should take this opportunity to plan for the future. I've been thinking—what my mother-in-law said the other day wasn't without reason. Since you have no children of your own, perhaps you could adopt one. Taking Yun Yun's child might upset her, but Yue Niang's youngest is not yet two years old. How about I bring this up with Father today? What do you think?"

"You bringing it up... wouldn't that be inappropriate?" Su Wan expressed concern.

Liu Yuru sighed. "You can't be the one to suggest it. The reason Father enjoys coming here now is that he sees you as detached and non-confrontational. If you were to ask, he might become displeased."

Su Wan fell silent. After a moment's thought, Liu Yuru added, "Don't worry, Jiusi is here. Even if Father is unhappy, he won't dare say anything."

Su Wan and Liu Yuru talked through the afternoon. By dinnertime, as everyone chatted, Liu Yuru noticed Zhang Yue'er holding her child and remarked with a smile, "Young Rong is almost two years old now, isn't he?"

Hearing Liu Yuru mention her son, Zhang Yue'er immediately gained confidence and replied cheerfully, "Yes, he'll be two soon."

"Can he speak yet?"

"Not really, but he can say 'Mother'."

Urging the child, Zhang Yue'er said, "Come on, Rong'er, say 'Mother' for everyone."The child babbled a string of incoherent sounds without forming a single clear word. Gu Jiusi couldn't help but let out a sudden chuckle. Noticing Zhang Yue'er's sharp glance, he lowered his head and said, "My apologies. The child was just too amusing—I couldn't resist."

Everyone fell silent.

Liu Yuru cast a calm glance at Gu Jiusi, who immediately straightened up and wiped the smile from his face.

It was this small detail that finally put Su Wan at ease. Zhang Yue'er's expression darkened, prompting Liu Yuru to quickly interject, "Auntie, please don't take it to heart. Jiusi is just childish by nature."

"Young Master Gu is naturally straightforward," Zhang Yue'er forced a smile. "There's nothing to fuss about."

"Aunt Yue now has two sons of her own, and Yuru truly envies that," Liu Yuru said thoughtfully. "Now that I'm married, Mother should have someone by her side to care for her. Don't you agree, Father?"

As she spoke, Liu Yuru turned to Liu Xuan. Zhang Yue'er instinctively tightened her grip on the child. To everyone's surprise, Liu Xuan nodded and declared outright, "You're right. Your mother should indeed have another child by her side."

"How about this," Liu Xuan continued decisively, "Yue'er, we'll entour Rong'er to the Madam to raise."

"Master!" Zhang Yue'er cried out in alarm. "But... but Rong'er is still so young!" Her mind raced as she added urgently, "He can't manage without me!"

"Aunt Yue, that's quite a remark," Gu Jiusi drawled lazily. "Since when does a boy become incapable without his mother? Unless he's spineless. Auntie, it's better to let the Madam raise the child—lest he be led astray."

Zhang Yue'er understood his veiled insult about her narrow-mindedness. She gritted her teeth, bitterly regretting having treated Liu Yuru and Su Wan too kindly in the past, which had now enabled them to turn the tables.

She should have disposed of Su Wan earlier or married Liu Yuru off to some wretched old man as a concubine, ensuring they'd never rise again.

But it was too late for regrets. Clutching her child, she could only burst into tears and make a scene.

Seeing her carry on like this in front of Gu Jiusi, Liu Xuan flew into a rage and had her dragged away. He then discussed the adoption matter with Su Wan and kept Gu Jiusi for a drink before finally allowing Liu Yuru and Gu Jiusi to depart.

Once inside the carriage, Liu Yuru expressed her puzzlement: "Why was Father so agreeable today?"

She had expected more resistance regarding Liu Rong's adoption. Gu Jiusi leaned against the window, propping his head on his hand, and replied with a smile, "You should be praising me for that."

Turning to look at him, Liu Yuru saw the young lord in his red robes and golden crown, his face lit by a grin. Moonlight bathed his porcelain-like skin, casting a soft glow.

His carefree smile carried such charm that for a moment, Liu Yuru felt dazed.

Noticing her silence, he waved a hand and beckoned, "Why the blank stare? Go on, praise me."

"Praise you for what?"

Snapping back to reality, Liu Yuru felt slightly flustered and turned away, fanning herself with her round fan. Gu Jiusi brushed off his sleeves proudly and declared, "I already discussed this with your father this afternoon."

"Oh?"

Liu Yuru turned back, curious. "What did you say?"

"I told him that in prominent families, the wife usually has a son—if not her own, then an adopted one. Your mother is all alone, and it worries me.""I originally planned to give many gifts to my brother-in-law, but it's a pity you don't have a younger brother. Giving presents to a concubine's child while suppressing your mother—how unhappy that makes me feel."

"Is that all?" Liu Yuru was taken aback. Gu Jiusi raised an eyebrow, "What else would you have me do?"

"When you speak like this, wouldn't it..." Liu Yuru measured her words carefully, "be too direct?"

"That's why I say," Gu Jiusi gently tapped her forehead with his fan, a smile playing on his lips, "you overthink everything. Why do you think your father hasn't divorced your mother all these years?"

Liu Yuru frowned, hesitating as she replied, "Because divorcing one's wife... would bring disgrace to the family reputation?"

Gu Jiusi sighed and looked at Liu Yuru as if she were a fool, stating bluntly, "Is your father the type to care about face? He hasn't divorced your mother simply because she is the daughter of the Su family in Suzhou. If he divorced her, where would he find another woman of such stature? Or such capable brothers-in-law? So yes, your father dotes on Zhang Yue'er, but only as long as it doesn't offend the Su family. If your mother had made a scene earlier, would your father dare to spoil Zhang Yue'er like this?"

Listening to Gu Jiusi's words, Liu Yuru slowly said, "Do men... also need to scheme like this?"

"Men are human too," Gu Jiusi scoffed. "All humans crave wealth and power. In your father's eyes, what are women worth? Right now, he wants to curry favor with the Gu family, so naturally he'll treat your mother well. I made my demands clear to him: only if the child is adopted under your mother's name will I send him gifts. Do you think the Gu family gives gifts casually? Your father knows exactly how to calculate this."

Liu Yuru fell silent. Gu Jiusi fanned himself, waiting for her to praise him. After a while, when she still didn't respond, he complained, "Why aren't you saying anything?"

"Gu Jiusi," this time she didn't call him 'husband.' Slowly processing his words, she looked up at the carefree man before her and said in surprise, "You... you're quite impressive."

At least when it came to understanding human nature, Gu Jiusi was far more perceptive than she was.

He thought about people simply, always getting to the essence of matters, bypassing conventions and superficial justifications, striking right at the core every time.

Dealing with someone like Liu Xuan was child's play for Gu Jiusi. It was only when facing someone like Liu Yuru, whose mindset was completely different from his, that he found himself at a loss.

Hearing Liu Yuru's praise, Gu Jiusi raised an eyebrow, rested his hand on the windowsill, and said with some pride, "Call me husband."

Obediently, Liu Yuru happily knelt beside Gu Jiusi, massaging his legs and flattering him, "Husband, you're amazing. Tell me more about Zhang Yue'er—what do you think of her?"

"Tea." Hearing Liu Yuru's fawning, Gu Jiusi's heart swelled with pride. Liu Yuru hurriedly poured him tea, watching him eagerly. After taking a sip, Gu Jiusi looked at her adoring expression and couldn't help but laugh.

"Liu Yuru," he said with a chuckle, "I've discovered you're quite adaptable."

"Of course," Liu Yuru immediately replied. "Those who achieve great things must have such resilience."

Gu Jiusi burst out laughing and pulled her up to sit beside him.

Drunk and in high spirits, he began holding forth eloquently. As Liu Yuru asked questions, he shared his insights with her.From Zhang Yue'er and Yun Yun, he went on to talk about everyone he knew around him.

During these past days, Liu Yu Ru had the tutor explain the current state of the world to him, so he had a clear understanding in his heart. Seeing that he was probably drunk and speaking without restraint, Liu Yu Ru couldn't help but ask, "Then what do you think of Prince Liang?"

Hearing this name, a cold glint flashed in Gu Jiusi's eyes as he sneered, "A treacherous minister and his descendants are bound to rebel."

Liu Yuru's heart jolted in shock. She wanted to ask more, but Gu Jiusi closed his eyes and leaned against the carriage, displeased. "I'm going to sleep. Don't disturb me."

No matter how much Liu Yuru shook him afterward, he refused to say another word.

Yet his words were etched into Liu Yuru's heart.

Liu Yuru lay awake all night, tossing and turning in bed. When she woke the next day, she crouched early by Gu Jiusi's makeshift bed on the floor and began shaking him. "Gu Jiusi, Gu Jiusi."

Gu Jiusi raised his hand to cover his ears, muttering discontentedly, "Didn't we agree I could take a break? I'm so tired, so exhausted, so sleepy..."

"Answer one more question, and I'll let you sleep."

Gu Jiusi covered his ears, pretending not to hear anything. Liu Yuru pulled his hand away and hurriedly asked, "Why did you say Prince Liang would rebel?"

"Huh?" Gu Jiusi opened his eyes groggily. "I said that?"

"Yes," Liu Yuru affirmed. "You did."

Gu Jiusi struggled to think, holding back for a long time before finally saying, "I was probably just talking nonsense..."

Liu Yuru: "..."

Seeing Liu Yuru's expression, Gu Jiusi knew he couldn't sleep any longer. He sat up painfully and said, "It's just a feeling. Prince Liang is too fake. He has troops and power, plans everything for the emperor, and even sends his family members as hostages. If he were truly loyal, why not return his military authority? Look at the three battles he's fought in the past two years—each time he requested reinforcements from the court. But I've studied the battles, and I think several times he could have pursued and wiped out the enemy completely, yet he didn't. Why do you think that is?"

"I started wondering, what if he can defeat the external enemies, but he's afraid of being discarded once they're eliminated? He knows the emperor suspects him, so he's already considering rebellion. The timing just isn't right yet, so he pretends to be obedient and deliberately lets the Chen Kingdom harass the border, using these mock battles to repeatedly request reinforcements for himself."

"How do you know he could have wiped them out completely?" Liu Yuru asked curiously. Gu Jiusi sighed. "I've met people from Prince Liang's fiefdom many times at the gambling den. They described the situation there to me. But I'm just guessing wildly—it might not be true."

Liu Yuru fell silent. Gu Jiusi raised his hands to hold his head, and after a long while, he looked up at her. "Do you have any more questions? If not, I want to sleep."

"Sleep then."

Liu Yuru pressed his head back onto the pillow.

As soon as his head touched the pillow, Gu Jiusi closed his eyes.

A hangover really does make one prone to headaches.

Liu Yuru pondered Gu Jiusi's words. Based on her understanding of him over this time, she felt that most of what he said held some truth. He claimed he was guessing wildly, but Liu Yuru thought his insights might be more accurate than many people's careful analyses of intelligence.

After all, intelligence could be fabricated, but the casual talk in a gambling den had no reason to be false.

Liu Yuru thought for a while longer until Yin Hong's voice came from outside. "Young Madam, the Lady Dowager is asking for you."

Liu Yuru snapped out of her thoughts, hurriedly responded, washed up, and went to the main hall. Jiang Rou was already waiting there. Seeing Liu Yuru arrive, she smiled and said, "Come, have breakfast, and I'll take you to see the shops."Liu Yu Ru lowered her head in acknowledgment and had a meal with Jiang Rou. Jiang Rou inquired about Gu Jiusi accompanying her back to her maiden home and asked about their subsequent plans before saying, "Once Jiusi gets accustomed to studying, you won't need to constantly supervise his schoolwork. Shift some of your time to the family business."

"I'll follow Mother's instructions."

After breakfast, Jiang Rou took her to the shops, introducing Liu Yu Ru to everyone there and meticulously explaining the operations of all the shops.

The location selection for each shop, their profit methods, sourcing channels...

Jiang Rou held nothing back, sharing everything with Liu Yu Ru. After visiting all the shops under her management, Jiang Rou took out an account book and personally taught Liu Yu Ru how to review it. Then she said to Liu Yu Ru, "It's just the annual account auditing period. Help me check all the accounts."

Liu Yu Ru was slightly taken aback. Knowing this was Jiang Rou's test for her, she didn't decline. Though anxious inside, she still accepted.

Returning home that day, she found Gu Jiusi wasn't there. Upon asking around, she learned he had gone out to have fun.

Considering Gu Jiusi hadn't seen his friends for a long time, she didn't interfere further. After washing up, she sat at the desk, staring at the account books until she eventually slumped over the desk and fell asleep.

When Gu Jiusi returned home cheerfully after a day out, he found Liu Yu Ru collapsed beside the desk with an account book and abacus nearby. Gu Jiusi paused in surprise, then went over and shook her gently: "Liu Yu Ru, wake up. Go sleep in bed."

Liu Yu Ru drowsily opened her eyes, appearing utterly exhausted.

Seeing her expression, Gu Jiusi sighed. He understood all too well the feeling of being woken from deep sleep. So he simply bent down and carefully scooped her up in his arms.

Liu Yu Ru was lighter than he expected. As he carried her toward the bed, she vaguely opened her eyes, saw Gu Jiusi's face, and murmured softly: "You're back?"

She didn't scold him.

That was Gu Jiusi's first thought, making him considerably happier. He responded and urged: "Don't talk, just sleep quickly."

Liu Yu Ru acknowledged and closed her eyes again. She was too tired, unbearably so.

Gu Jiusi placed Liu Yu Ru on the bed and covered her with the quilt before going to the adjacent room to wash up. While bathing, he couldn't help asking Munan: "What did the young mistress do today to be so exhausted?"

"The madam took the young mistress to familiarize herself with the shops," Munan had anticipated this question and gathered information in advance. "I heard the madam entrusted this year's account auditing to the young mistress."

Gu Jiusi was startled. He knew the annual account auditing was his mother's busiest period and remarked: "Such an important matter given to her just like that?"

"Yes indeed."

Munan scrubbed Gu Jiusi's back while saying: "Everyone says the madam is grooming the young mistress. Soon, the young mistress might be making all the household decisions."

"Doesn't she already make all the decisions now?"

Gu Jiusi rolled his eyes.

But after some thought, he added: "Then supervising my studies while managing accounts - wouldn't that be very exhausting for her?"

Naturally it was exhausting.

Afterward, every few days, Liu Yu Ru rose earlier than the roosters and slept later than the dogs.She paid no mind to Gu Jiusi, and he didn’t cause her any trouble either, obediently focusing on his studies. Yin Hong, who kept an eye on Gu Jiusi for Liu Yu Ru, reported that he had been putting in effort lately. Although he occasionally let his mind wander, he tried to restrain himself and didn’t actually do anything out of line.

Liu Yu Ru nodded but didn’t intervene further. After all, she couldn’t truly manage Gu Jiusi for a lifetime. She had set him on the path, but whether he would walk it depended on him alone.

At first, she was slow at reviewing the accounts, but she gradually became faster. Every day, she checked the books for discrepancies and then went to the shops for inventory checks. Each trip took the entire day, and she often returned late at night. Sometimes, even after coming back, the work wasn’t finished, so she had to stay up late to complete it. Gu Jiusi often slept on the floor bed, watching the lamplight behind the screen remain lit.

He had never seen someone so diligent, a girl so disciplined and self-restrained.

Her silhouette, bathed in the warm glow of the candlelight, slowly and imperceptibly seeped into his life, though at the time, he was completely unaware of it.

Fortunately, familiarity comes with practice.

As Liu Yu Ru handled more tasks, she grew accustomed to them. Jiang Rou then began teaching her how to negotiate business deals, accompanying her a few times before letting her handle them on her own.

A merchant from afar in Youzhou wanted to place an order for a batch of fabric, which happened to be Liu Yu Ru’s area of expertise. Her family’s business had originally specialized in cloth as its main supply, so she was assigned to handle the negotiation. On a fine day, accompanied by Munan and Yin Hong, she entered the pre-booked private room.

The other party was Zhou Ye. It was said that his adoptive father held a position in the Youzhou army, so he occasionally assisted with military procurement. For instance, this batch of fabric was intended for Youzhou’s winter preparations.

Liu Yu Ru had assumed the person would be older, as someone young would unlikely be entrusted with such an important task. Thus, when she entered the room and saw a young man around twenty years old, she was taken aback.

He had a handsome face, with the sturdy build characteristic of northern men, exuding a rugged, masculine charm.

Upon seeing Liu Yu Ru, he too seemed surprised but quickly masked his emotions, greeting her respectfully. Suppressing her unease, Liu Yu Ru introduced herself, “Young Master Zhou, I am Liu Yu Ru, daughter-in-law of Madam Jiang. I am currently managing the Jiang Family Trading Company, so I will be handling the fabric negotiations with you.”

“Young Madam Gu, to be entrusted with such responsibilities at such a young age, you must possess remarkable talent,” Zhou Ye seized the opportunity to compliment her before cordially inviting her to take a seat.

Zhou Ye was articulate and amiable, discussing prices with Liu Yu Ru. Both were sincere in their business dealings, and they quickly reached an agreement.

After finalizing the details such as quantity, price, and delivery method, both parties signed the contract. Following some casual conversation, it was time to leave. Zhou Ye glanced at the sky and politely offered, “Allow me to escort you back, Young Madam.”

“There’s no need,” Liu Yu Ru smiled. “I’ve brought attendants with me. Please feel free to go about your business, Young Master Zhou.”

Zhou Ye nodded but still accompanied her downstairs. They had only taken a few steps when a loud laugh echoed from the corridor: “Well, well, whose young lady is this? In broad daylight, walking out of a private room with another man—and looking rather cozy, aren’t we?”The moment that voice rang out, the entire hall fell silent. Everyone turned toward the source and saw a man standing in the corridor.

He appeared to be around twenty-five or twenty-six years old, yet exuded an air of decadence. He seemed heavily intoxicated, barely able to stand steadily, with flushed cheeks.

Liu Yu Ru turned along with the others, and the instant her gaze fell upon the young man, her entire body stiffened. She had never met this person before, yet his face was utterly familiar to her.

It was Wang Rong.

She recalled with certainty—this was the very Wang Rong from her dreams, the one whose legs Gu Jiusi had broken, who then held a grudge and killed Gu Jiusi!

Her breath hitched, but she quickly regained her composure. Turning around, she tugged at the person beside her, intending to leave.

However, Zhou Ye stood rooted to the spot. Though he didn’t know who this man was, his upright nature compelled him to respond, “Young master, mind your words. This lady and I are merely discussing business matters. There is nothing improper between us, and our elders are fully aware of it. Do not spout such slander.”

“Oh~” Wang Rong drawled meaningfully, “So your elders sent you out to do these things.”

He emphasized “do these things” heavily, and everyone caught the suggestive undertone. Zhou Ye’s expression darkened. Liu Yu Ru whispered a reminder, “Young Master Zhou, he’s from an official’s family. It’s best not to provoke conflict. The innocent need not fear slander, but please don’t invite trouble.”

Zhou Ye snorted coldly, utterly dismissive of the term “official’s family.” Liu Yu Ru couldn’t help but glance at him, recalling that Zhou Ye himself seemed to come from an official background. Pressing her lips together, she said to him, “Young Master Zhou, let’s go. After all, this is Yangzhou.”

Hearing this, Zhou Ye hesitated for a moment before finally turning away.

But just then, Wang Rong strode forward and loudly declared, “Don’t go, little lady! Since you’ve served this young master, why not have some fun with me too?”

“Young Master Wang,” Munan stepped forward, shielding Liu Yu Ru, and said respectfully, “Our lady is the young madam of the Gu Family. I hope you will show some respect.”

“You say she’s from the Gu Family, so she is?” Wang Rong sneered, “Aren’t you afraid she might be an imposter?”

With that, Wang Rong moved closer, scrutinizing Liu Yu Ru and remarking, “She looks like a plain dish at first glance, but upon closer inspection, she has a unique charm.”

Wang Rong used his fan to lift her chin. Liu Yu Ru clenched her fists, straightened her back, and said coldly, “Young Master Wang, I have already made my identity clear. If you insist on feigning drunken madness today, you are insulting the Gu Family. Even if you care not for yourself, think of Lord Wang. When a memorial reaches the Eastern Capital, I wonder if you can bear the punishment at home!”

“You!” Wang Rong raised his fan as if to strike, but Zhou Ye grabbed it firmly and said sternly, “Young Master Wang, as a scion of an official family, you should hold yourself to a higher standard and set an example. If you persist in this drunken charade today, are you truly prepared to make an enemy of the Gu Family?”

Wang Rong fell silent, glaring fiercely at Zhou Ye as if weighing his options.

After a long pause, he snorted coldly, suddenly raised a hand to his forehead, and feigned a pained expression. “Ah, I’m drunk, so drunk I can’t even see clearly. Someone, help me back.”

Only after Wang Rong had left did Liu Yu Ru finally unclench her fists.

She let out a sigh of relief and apologized to Zhou Ye, “Young Master Zhou, I’ve implicated you in this and caused you trouble.”"It's nothing," Zhou Ye waved his hand. "Even if it weren't for you, Young Madam, I wouldn't stand by and do nothing when faced with such scum."

"The Wang family holds great power in Yangzhou. Since he can't do anything to me now, he'll surely cause trouble for you. You should leave Yangzhou as soon as possible. I'll handle the fabric matter completely, so please don't worry."

Liu Yuru spoke with some apology in her tone. Zhou Ye smiled and said, "It's fine. He wouldn't dare do anything to me anyway."

Liu Yuru's face showed concern. Zhou Ye glanced at the sky and said, "Young Madam, let me escort you back."

Zhou Ye's expression left no room for refusal. Liu Yuru sighed helplessly, nodded, and entered the carriage.

Zhou Ye rode alongside the carriage, protecting Liu Yuru all the way back to the Gu residence. Liu Yuru pondered how she would report this matter to Jiang Rou later.

She felt somewhat afraid, but even more wronged and upset. She didn't know if Jiang Rou had encountered such situations before. In business, one always had to go out for negotiations, but in the business world, it wasn't always possible for women to deal only with women, and men only with men. Major deals often involved confidential matters that required private, one-on-one discussions. When a man and woman were alone in a room, even with servants present, it would inevitably lead to gossip. She wondered how Jiang Rou handled such situations. And why had Wang Rong suddenly come to confront her? After threatening Wang Rong like that, would there be any repercussions...

Various thoughts swirled in Liu Yuru's mind. The carriage slowly made its way toward the Gu family residence. As they approached, the familiar sound of urgent galloping suddenly came from outside.

Hearing the familiar voice urgently shouting "Giddyup!", she quickly lifted the carriage curtain and saw Gu Jiusi, dressed in plain clothes, galloping past her carriage.

Liu Yuru was stunned for a moment, then urgently called out: "Gu Jiusi!"

Gu Jiusi didn't stop at all, his back to her as he simply said: "Go back home!"

Liu Yuru was bewildered for a moment, then saw the Gu family servants chasing after him on horseback. She quickly stopped one of them and asked anxiously: "What is the Young Master going to do?"

"Young... Young Master heard that Wang Rong bullied you, Young Madam," the servant panted, looking anxious. "He took a horse from home and said he's going to break Wang Rong's legs!"

Hearing this, Liu Yuru's face turned pale.

Zhou Ye smiled beside her: "So this is the famous Young Master Gu. Truly the passion of youth. Don't worry, Young Madam, the Young Master is probably just talking. He'll likely just go and have an argument, that's all."

"No, that's not it."

Liu Yuru collected herself and said urgently: "Quickly stop the Young Master! Go now!"

After catching her breath, she turned to Zhou Ye and said: "Young Master Zhou, my husband has a fiery temper. I need to go check on him. Thank you for escorting me home. We'll meet another day."

Zhou Ye hesitated for a moment, then nodded: "Then take care, Young Madam."

Liu Yuru acknowledged, then got back into the carriage and told the driver: "Quickly follow the Young Master."

If they didn't catch up in time, Wang Rong's legs would truly be broken.