By the time Song Qingshu returned to the separate courtyard of the Daotai Yamen, it was already late. He specially invited Cheng Yaojia and her husband to dinner.
To his surprise, Lu Guanying did not mock him for once during the meal. He merely remained silent throughout, while Cheng Yaojia seemed preoccupied as well, absent-minded the entire evening.
"Young Master Lu, rest assured. Stay here and recuperate properly for the time being. There is no safer place in all of Yangzhou," Song Qingshu said with a smile, setting down his wine cup.
Lu Guanying's expression changed several times before he finally clasped his hands. "Thank you!"
Song Qingshu raised an eyebrow. The other man's attitude had changed so drastically that it was truly strange. He could not help glancing at Cheng Yaojia, only to find her face alternating between red and pale. She moved her chopsticks mechanically, looking deeply troubled.
"Strange." Song Qingshu frowned, but soon let it go. He had far too much to consider now to spare the energy to guess what this young couple was thinking.
After dinner, Song Qingshu arranged separate rooms for the couple to rest in. He then sent a number of physicians and maids to attend to Lu Guanying. Cheng Yaojia's face reddened slightly, yet she voluntarily went over to care for her husband.
Song Qingshu laughed silently. He knew Cheng Yaojia feared he might take the opportunity to do something to her. Was I really that frightening? Her husband is still here...
Still, he did not stop her. After all, they were husband and wife in name. Even if there had been some letter of divorce, how could the affection built up over so many years as husband and wife be severed just like that?
After returning to his room, Song Qingshu