"That's Quercus's affair; let Quercus handle it on her own."
Su Zimo said nonchalantly, wearing a calm expression as she continued to attend to the matters at hand, showing no concern whatsoever.
He Yunting was dumbfounded, unable to believe that there could be such a heartless mother. This challenge was no small matter! Wait, wasn't this heartless mother right in front of him?
"Momo, don't underestimate it. The person outside is Ji Hong, the grandson of Zhenguogong. He has cultivation skills comparable to Li'er's and enjoys great favor from the Emperor of Haoyue Kingdom. He has been cultivating with Haihaidi and recently returned. Upon hearing that Li'er's cultivation level is on par with his, he was unconvinced and came to challenge."
Hades?
Su Zimo's eyes flashed, but she still remained silent?
He Yunting stared at Su Zimo intently.
However, Su Zimo remained indifferent.
This made He Yunting anxious! Did this woman have to wait until the situation became dire before she showed any urgency? It was her own son who came to challenge, and he was just a five-year-old child!
"Momo...?"
"Are you trying to tell me that there's someone influential behind him? Or that Ji Hong is more powerful than Quercus? What about the grandson of Zhenguogong?"
In Su Zimo's heart, no one could compare to her son, Quercus. Quercus not only had impressive cultivation skills but also possessed the knowledge she had imparted to him from the 21st century. Even a master twice as powerful as Quercus might not necessarily be his opponent. Jun Lin Tian was a living example.
"Momo, this Zhenguo Duke isn't just a duke; he's also the grandfather of the Crown Prince and holds great influence in the kingdom. Ji Hong, as his favorite grandson, is highly regarded and protected. By challenging Li'er this time, he wants to save face for the Zhenguo Duke. You see, won't this put Mingyue Villa and Li'er in a difficult position?"
"Don't bring up irrelevant matters here, He Yunting. Your recent actions have become more and more reckless. Who cares about a duke? My Bright Moon Villa isn't to be trifled with either."
Su Zimo narrowed her eyes, causing He Yunting to instantly appear aggrieved.
"Alright, alright, I'll go. Aren't we here for a reason?"
He Yunting turned around and headed towards Su Li's room.
"Mother, we all know our brother's strength, and he won't lose."
Su Xin smiled sweetly. To someone who wanted to defeat her brother, it was like wishing for the moon during the day—pure delusion.
Su Zimo smiled warmly.
"It's good that you understand. Uncle Murong will be coming later, and if we successfully negotiate this business, our position in Haoyue Kingdom will be even more stable."
Su Li hugged Su Xin and said, "Let's have breakfast first!" "Okay, Mother."
Su Xin kissed Su Zimo's cheek, deciding not to bring up the events of yesterday. Some things were understood by all of them, and there was no need to mention them and make their mother sad.
Outside the gates of Mingyue Villa, Su Li led Su Qi, He Yunting, and Liu Shiyu as they walked out.
Su Li donned a magnificent black robe, walking with a composed demeanor. His delicate features exuded an air of calmness that belied his young age. Each step he took was filled with a commanding presence.
Ji Hong, standing not far away, clearly paled in comparison.
"Alas! Behold, come out, see for yourself, it truly looks exactly the same! The onlookers around commented on the skill of the Su Li brothers.
"You finally emerged?"
Ji Hong wore a smug smile on his face, unable to believe that the child in front of him, who barely reached his hand, could be a sixth-order master of the Golden Xuan Period.
"Is it Your Excellency who wishes to challenge Ben Gongzi?"
Despite meeting for the first time, Su Li displayed politeness, while Ji Hong appeared even more arrogant and proud.
"Very well." Ji Hong's arrogant tone instantly caused a clash between their piercing gazes.
"Uncle Shiyu, he appears talented, but his appearance is remarkable, to the extent that it mars his image, somewhat spoiling the overall impression," Su Qi whispered, but Ji Hong heard it nonetheless.
Ji Hong glared fiercely at Su Qi.
Unfazed, Su Qi stuck out his tongue, paying no attention to Ji Hong's threatening eyes.
"Qi'er, he is the grandson of Zhenguo Gong, and it's understandable for him to have such judgment," Liu Shiyu disapproved, considering it a common trait among children from prominent families.
"Alas! How different is this world from what my mother described? Su Qi tilted his head, wondering if a privileged family life equated to superiority. He didn't think so. Strip away the titles, and wouldn't they all be the same as ordinary people?
"The ring is located on Fengqing Street, the largest street in Haoyue Country, and the challenge is scheduled for tomorrow," Ji Hong stated the challenge location without caring whether Su Li agreed or not.
The ring on Fengqing Street was not open to just anyone—it was the royal ring.
"Wow! The Royal Arena! Won't that grab the emperor's attention?!" The people, upon hearing this, grew even more enthusiastic, as the competition at the royal ring was the most thrilling.
"If you lose, you'll be dead," Ji Hong said disdainfully to Su Li, his tone filled with incredulity.
"What if you lose?" Su Qi couldn't bear it and blurted out, looking at Ji Hong with contempt. His intention was to make Ji Hong's face swell up like a pus-filled boil.
"If I lose, you can do as you please," Ji Hong crossed his arms and looked down at Su Qi with a sideways glance.
"Making empty threats, you ignorant fool! Why would my brother die if he loses? And you, why should you be at someone's disposal if you lose? If it's a life-and-death challenge, it should be fair. Your idea of being disposed of is just laughable. Your grandfather is the Duke of Zhenguo, and the fairest outcome is that the loser dies. If you genuinely want to challenge my brother, then sign a life-and-death contract," Su Qi, burdened by only a few pounds, couldn't bear the weight of an elder's rage. Signing a life-and-death contract would make it a matter between the two individuals, unrelated to the factions supporting them from behind. Seeking revenge on the Duke of Zhenguo would be seen as causing trouble without justification in the eyes of the Haoyue Emperor.
"Sign it! Do you think I, Ji Hong, am afraid of a five-year-old child with a mouth full of nonsense?" Ji Hong angrily opened his arms.
A hint of concern flashed in the eyes of his entourage behind him.
"Gongzi, let's go back and discuss this with Zhenguo Gong before making a decision! Once the life-and-death contract is signed, not even Zhenguo Gong can intervene."
"This..." Ji Hong hesitated slightly.
"Hey! You're not going to bow down this New Year? What are you doing? It's you who wants to challenge my brother. A five-year-old kid like me can decide matters of life and death, but you, a grown man, still have to go back and ask your grandfather. Go, go, don't come to Mingyue Mountain Villa if you can't make up your mind. Su Qi's expression was one that Ji Hong couldn't ignore.
Ji Hong's eyes were fixed on Su Qi, filled with excitement.
"This is Gongzi's affair. There's no need to consult my grandfather."
"Gongzi, but..."
One could tell at a glance that this entourage was a cautious person. The owner of Bright Moon Mountain Villa didn't even show his face when he heard about this life and death challenge. Even the butler and Liu Shiyu, who followed behind, remained silent. It was decided by two five-year-old children as they pleased. This showed that if they didn't have confidence in their self-reliant son, they wouldn't let their son's life and death matter be taken lightly. No smoke without fire. They couldn't place all their eggs in one basket!
But Gongzi's temper...
"Then let's go to the ring on Fengqing Street and sign the life and death contract!"
Su Li spoke calmly, and no one could understand how much a five-year-old child knew about life and death. But looking at the determined look in Su Li's eyes, no one could see him as just a five-year-old child.
"Let's go."
This time, Ji Hong didn't hesitate. He turned around gracefully and took the lead.
Is that it? The news that the grandson of Zhenguo Gong was going to challenge the young owner of Mingyue Mountain Villa spread throughout the capital of Haoyue Country in an instant. Even the Haoyue Emperor in the depths of the palace became aware of it.
In Yuncheng, the Mu family, Mu Yunhan hurriedly walked towards Yunxiao Hall.
As soon as he entered the study, he saw Mu Yunxuan touching his cheek and grinning, unaware of his presence. Mu Yunhan thought that his eldest brother's mind was probably occupied by Su Zimo.
Mu Yunhan stomped his foot hard, but Mu Yunxuan still didn't notice. At a glance, Mu Yunhan was instantly petrified. Could it be that his eldest brother had become stupid? He had been laughing since he came back last night, even after being slapped twice by a woman. Was he slapped silly or has he gone mad?
"Big brother, are you still laughing?"
Seeing that it was Mu Yunhan, Mu Yunxuan instantly returned to his senses.
He frowned, "Why shouldn't I laugh? Do I have to cry if I don't laugh?"
Mu Yunxuan glanced at his younger brother.
"Big brother, you really don't know what's happening outside. Something big has happened."
"Big brother, big brother..."
Mu Yunfan's voice came from outside, and upon hearing it, Mu Yunxuan's expression instantly turned serious.
"You two can leave."
His cold words made the two who were about to speak feel as if they had been splashed with cold water.
"Let's go, Yunfan. Let's leave and be happy on our own. There's no point in talking to your eldest brother. These two dense-headed people ruin the atmosphere of a conversation. They have no wit at all, unlike us. Let's go for a walk together and enjoy the bamboo in the alley."
Murong Xingchen said, looking at Mu Yunxuan's face and the increasingly serious expression. The two of them quickly left.
"So, what you said earlier was about this incident outside?"
Mu Yunxuan asked calmly.
"Yes! The life and death contract has been signed." Mu Yunhan walked over to a chair and sat down.
"If they've signed the contract, it's their own business."
Mu Yunxuan remained unfazed, showing no concern.
Mu Yunhan couldn't stay calm.
"Big brother, the life and death contract has been signed. Aren't you worried about Li'er at all? Li'er is only five years old, and even her sister-in-law didn't step in. She made the decision herself."
"What does age have to do with it? Who said a life and death contract requires a certain age?"
Su Zimo not intervening was unexpected for Mu Yunxuan.
"According to Qingfeng, it was Qi Er who was going to sign it."
"If Qi Er is going to sign it, then there's no need to worry."
Mu Yunxuan tapped his jade hand lightly on the marble table, displaying a lazy and indifferent attitude.
"Big brother, what do you mean...?"
"My son, Mu Yunxuan, won't do anything he's not confident in."
Mu Yunxuan seemed a bit absent-minded, already considering the three siblings as part of his own name, and he had long forgotten Su Zimo's words.
"Big brother, currently they are still surnamed Su, not Mu."
"There's no need to discuss this matter. Whether they are surnamed Su or Mu, they are all my children," replied Mu Yunxuan, unfazed by the distinction.
Mu Yunhan had nothing more to say; indeed, the children belonged to his eldest brother.
"Tomorrow is the day of the challenge. It is said that even the emperor has been alerted and will be present at the scene. The competition will take place at the royal arena. If it weren't for the Duke of Zhenguo and the Queen intervening, Ji Hong wouldn't dare to act so recklessly."
"That works to our advantage then," Mu Yunxuan remained unimpressed.
"Big brother, Ji Yaotian is someone who cannot tolerate any threats to his reputation. When he heard that Li'er's cultivation had reached the sixth stage of the Golden Xuan Realm, he was afraid that his grandson prodigy's name would be overshadowed. So, he devised this plan to prove his grandson's strength. Ji Hong has been sent to the Sea of Silence for cultivation and has been cultivating there. By the time he turns thirteen, he will also reach the sixth stage of the Golden Xuan Realm. He is indeed a rare talent," Mu Yunhan spoke, a tinge of envy apparent in his tone. After all, it was rare for someone to reach the sixth stage of the Golden Xuan Realm at the age of thirteen. But in his envy, he unconsciously overlooked the fact that his own nephew was only five years old.
"Hmm!" Mu Yunxuan raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Yun Han, why are you comparing yourself unfavorably? Ji Hong reaching the sixth stage of the Golden Xuan Realm at thirteen years old and my Li'er reaching the same stage at only five years old... there's no comparison. Li'er is far beyond being called a prodigy."
Mu Yunhan smiled awkwardly. It was true that having two nephews and a niece all of a sudden was hard to believe.
"I forgot about that," he admitted.
"Go and prepare. We will leave early tomorrow morning," Mu Yunxuan said, leaning lazily on the soft bed, closing his eyes, and remaining silent.
Mu Yunhan shook his head, got up, and walked out. As he reached the door, he bumped into Ling Qiushui again.
Seeing Ling Qiushui, a pang of guilt struck Mu Yunhan's heart. He had once thought she would become his sister-in-law, but things had taken an unexpected turn. He didn't want to add to his mother's sadness.
"Yun Han, I want to go in and keep your eldest brother company. He finally has some free time at home today," Ling Qiushui said, her face tender and her beautiful eyes filled with a glimmer of hope. She exuded grace and elegance in every movement, showcasing her beauty to the fullest. She was truly stunning.
"Miss Ling, the eldest brother is busy with the matters that have piled up over the past few days. It's better if you don't go in," Mu Yunhan said, aware that his eldest brother didn't seem interested in seeing Ling Qiushui at the moment. Her presence would only deepen his sadness.
"Han'er, what are you saying? Don't you want your eldest brother to marry and continue the Mu family's legacy as soon as possible?" Jun Zixi interjected, appearing at the critical moment. This time, she was accompanied by Mu Yufeng, causing a headache for Mu Yunhan. His mother seemed intent on meddling, and this time even his father had joined in.
"Mother, father, please go back. Don't worry about the inheritance of the eldest brother. He's only five years old. Does he need to think about inheritance?" Mu Yunhan spoke, his voice filled with fear as he shrank back under the intense gaze of Mu Yufeng.
Despite his aging, Mu Yufeng's energy and imposing aura remained strong.
"Listen to Shui'er, Bright Moon Mountain Villa has recently emerged, and their businesses are expanding everywhere. Their shops are all across from Mu Family Commercial Company. Doesn't your eldest brother care about that?" Mu Yufeng's words were forceful and commanding, carrying an aura that made people instinctively want to submit.
Mu Yunhan cast a doubtful and questioning gaze at Ling Qiushui. Ling Qiushui's eyes wavered slightly, her heart pounding. She realized that things might not go as smoothly as she had expected, but she had to find a way.
"Father, aren't you concerned about business anymore? The eldest brother has his own decisions regarding those matters. If you and mother have no other business, there will be a duel on Fengqing Street tomorrow. It might pique your interest. I will make the preparations and leave tomorrow morning," Mu Yunhan swiftly escaped. Ling Qiushui seemed to have her hands full, why did she discuss this matter with his parents?
At that moment, Qing Feng walked out and addressed the group, "Lord Saint, Madam, Miss Ling, the Lord is currently occupied with affairs. I kindly ask Lord Saint and Madam to return home for now."
Qing Feng was loyal and obedient. He faithfully relayed Mu Yunxuan's instructions.
"He's becoming more audacious. He doesn't even dare to see us now," Mu Yufeng's face turned grim instantly.
"Uncle Mo, since the Lord is occupied, let's not disturb him. We can visit when he has some free time," Ling Qiushui suggested, showing her understanding.
"He's getting bolder. That's all," Mu Yufeng said, feeling relieved. After all, his son was more capable than him in terms of management.
"Ling Qiushui, you are so considerate. Xuan'er is treating you this well, and you don't get angry or say anything. It's a blessing for Xuan'er to marry you!" Jun Zixi praised while taking Ling Qiushui's hand.
Ling Qiushui responded with a shy smile. She couldn't wait for that day. However, the recent rumors she had heard made her realize that things might not go as smoothly as she had hoped. She would have to find a way.
In the Three Kings Mansion, Butler He hurriedly entered the study.
Jun Lintian leaned back in his chair, a cold expression on his face, hinting at his murderous intent. He had visited the palace the previous day, and from his father's words, he could tell that his father doubted him. The two items found on Li Hu's body had sparked the urge to kill. If this matter was thoroughly investigated, it would implicate him, his mother, and his concubine. Today, Su Ziyun came to find him, but he refused to see her. What he didn't expect was that a seemingly ordinary murder case at the brothel could lead to a catastrophic turn of events.
"The servant greets Your Highness," Butler He respectfully saluted.
"Did you find anything?" Jun Lintian asked without bothering to rise from his seat, his tone indifferent.
"Your Highness, early this morning, Ji Hong, the grandson of Duke Zhenguo, went to Mingyue Mountain Villa to challenge the young master of the villa. The name signed in the life and death contract was Su Li."
Jun Lintian abruptly sat up. "So, the owner of Mingyue Mountain Villa is surnamed Su."
"Yes, Your Highness."
"Su Li, Su Zimo..." Jun Lintian's expression turned cold as he tapped on the desk. Could it really be Su Zimo? Is she really back for revenge?
Why did she save everyone except for Su Zinian and Su Qingjue? If it's really her, does she truly intend to seek vengeance?
"Make sure to double-check and provide accurate information," Jun Lintian said, feeling restless and frustrated that things were slipping out of his control.
"Yes, Your Highness."
After Butler He left, Jun Lintian stood up and walked out...
At Bright Moon Villa, Murong Shaofeng entered with his entourage, Zhu Yan, carrying a large bag and a small bag.
Su Zimo, He Yunting, and Liu Shiyu had been waiting for a while. Seeing Murong Shaofeng's arrival, Su Zimo felt a surge of happiness, knowing that they would be making a lot of money soon.
"Shao Feng, you're here! Please come to the main hall quickly," Su Zimo greeted him with a smile.
He Yunting and Liu Shiyu nodded in greeting to Murong Shaofeng.
"I thought you would invite me to a side hall," Murong Shaofeng said playfully, having heard about Jun Lintian being invited to the side hall twice.
"No way! Shao Feng, you're an esteemed guest of Bright Moon Villa. The side hall is reserved for those who cause trouble," Su Zimo flattered him. After all, Murong Shaofeng was her great benefactor.
"Oh, really! Shao Feng, you can come over here. Why do you always bring bags every time?" Su Zimo commented, although her eyes were fixed on the packages of items.
He Yunting and Liu Shiyu shook their heads and smiled. Su Zimo said the same thing every time, yet they never refused and always accepted the gifts.
"Owner, should I take the bags?" Zhu Yan asked with a mischievous glint in his eyes. The owner of Bright Moon Villa loved the gifts given by His Highness the most, and Zhu Yan believed it was justified. The gifts from His Highness were carefully selected, and each one was a treasure.
"Zhu Yan, you're a grown man. How can I accept such small things? Go, deliver them directly to Ming Yuexuan," Su Zimo said, pretending to be modest.
"Understood! You take Zhu Yan and give the gifts to Li'er and the others. They will be delighted to know that Uncle Murong is here," she said, once again shamelessly accepting Murong Shaofeng's gift.
In the main hall, Qinglian and Qinghe stepped back after serving fruits and snacks.
"Momo, do you really want Li'er to go to the ring with Ji Hong?" The morning's events had already spread, and Murong Shaofeng hurried here, mostly to discuss this matter.
"Shao Feng, in life, people need experiences and growth. Li'er is already capable of deciding what should and shouldn't be done. Taking part in this ring match is his choice, and I respect his decision," Su Zimo explained. She personally felt it was not a big deal, but outsiders looked at her with strange eyes, as if she were a heartless mother who didn't care about her son's life. Su Zimo felt wronged. Did they really think she didn't consider her son's well-being?
"Momo, after all, Li'er is only five years old," Murong Shaofeng expressed his concern.
"My son is mature beyond his age. He has surpassed the ordinary," Su Zimo said vaguely while taking a bite of a pine nut cake.
"You're too playful with the children," Murong Shaofeng remarked. He understood Su Zimo very well and knew she never did anything she wasn't sure of.
But Su Li was only five years old, and according to Su Zimo, he was precocious.
"Shao Feng, don't worry too much about this matter. Just wait and witness the miracle tomorrow!" Su Zimo finished the last bite of pastry and took a sip of tea. In front of Murong Shaofeng, she never pretended and always showed her true self.
Murong Shaofeng looked at her sincerely and affectionately. The saying goes, "If the Buddha does not cross my path, I will become a demon myself." His love for Su Zimo had reached the point where he would become a demon himself. When she returned to Haoyue Kingdom, he couldn't bear the pain of being separated and followed her all the way.
"I trust your judgment, and it puts my heart at ease," Murong Shaofeng said, picking up his teacup and taking a gentle sip. "Momo, I have agreed to all the conditions in your contract. The contract has my signature. We have been working together for two years, and I trust that the rice paper produced by Mingyue Villa will be sold exclusively by my Hengfeng Commercial Company. You cannot cooperate with others!" Hengfeng Commercial Company was the collective name for the shops operated by Murong Shaofeng.
"Shao Feng, thank you for your trust. It's only by collaborating with you that I can run this business. I'm truly, truly grateful for your unwavering trust," Su Zimo said, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude. Once Shao Feng agreed, her capital would immediately be replenished.
"Momo, you once said that while mountains may never meet, people may meet from time to time. Although we come from different walks of life, we share a common point—the source of customers and commodities. Your goods are so remarkable that they can turn people's silver into gold. In other words, your goods speak for themselves," Murong Shaofeng stated confidently. He was certain that Momo's paper industry would shake the four countries.
And he would be her only partner, seizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"Hmm! After all, making money is about living a better life. The ultimate purpose of life is to find happiness in the process. Shao Feng, you were the first person I thought of when seeking a partner, not because of others, but because when no one else believed in me, you did," Su Zimo said, her voice tinged with emotion. She couldn't help but recall the scene at the border when she had just started her business and was struggling. If it weren't for Shao Feng's help, she wouldn't have had Bright Moon Villa today.
"You! The past is something to reminisce about, but you were part of my past, and I treasure it," Murong Shaofeng said, bursting into laughter.
The joyous laughter filled the hall, and the people of Mingyue Villa had never seen Su Zimo so happy. The atmosphere in the entire villa became uplifted, and the upcoming ring match seemed to have no impact on them.
Su Zimo and Murong Shaofeng chatted for a long time. She even invited him to stay for dinner, and after dinner, Murong Shaofeng played with Su Li and his two siblings for a while before reluctantly leaving...
It was nighttime, and Su Zimo noticed that the light in Su Li's room was still on, indicating that he hadn't slept yet. She walked in.
Su Li was engrossed in reading, marking passages with a bookmark whenever he came across something he didn't understand.
"Oak."
"Mother." Su Li set aside the book he was reading and quickly got up. He hadn't expected his mother to visit him tonight.
"Reading too much at night strains your eyes." Su Zimo, as usual, held Su Li in her arms.
"Mother, I don't have much to do, and I get bored when I have idle time, so I thought it would be better to learn a bit more about business."
Su Li pointed to the book on the table, which contained the life experiences of a renowned businessman from the previous dynasty. He had written his wisdom and knowledge into a book, but unfortunately, it had not received much recognition in this time and era, where business was still not highly valued.
"Did you learn anything from that, Oak?"
"Mother, if one wants to truly become wealthy and successful in business, they can only do so by applying their wisdom and embarking on the path of true prosperity."
"Hmm! Well said, Oak. Now, analyze for me—what business is the quickest to get started with?"
Su Zimo decided to test her son's understanding.
Su Li pondered for a moment, his eyes suddenly lighting up, and he said, "Mother, everything is interconnected. People nowadays are most concerned about food, clothing, women's accessories, elixirs, and various daily necessities. The affluent individuals are pursuing a luxurious and high-quality lifestyle. If we make a breakthrough in these areas, we can become excellent businessmen."
"Well said, Oak. Your mother wants to reward you. What would you like?" Su Zimo asked, opening up the possibilities.
Su Li blinked his clear eyes, feeling a little embarrassed to say, "Anything is fine, Mother."
"Of course."
"Mother, can Oak sleep with you tonight? Oak misses the warmth of your embrace."
Perhaps in Su Zimo's arms, Su Li could still be the carefree five-year-old child, occasionally displaying a bit of coquettishness like his mother.
"That's such a simple request. How could I refuse? Let's go, let's rest early. Tomorrow, Que'er will fight for the glory of our Bright Moon Villa." Su Zimo picked up Su Li and walked towards their room.
Unknown to them, Su Qi had already finished getting ready for bed and was waiting for them, accompanied by Xin'er.
"Qi'er, why don't you come and join in the fun with your uncle?"
"Hmph! Mother is biased and never invites me."
Su Qi climbed onto the bed, pouting as he rested his chin on his hands, looking displeased.
"Alright, alright! I'm not biased. But you're not allowed to fart during the night, you hear?"
"Mother, Qi'er stopped eating anything that causes farting a long time ago." Su Qi felt a bit embarrassed. Farting wasn't something he intended to do. It's just that sometimes a fart would slip out, and he didn't want to be scolded for it!
A year ago, Su Zimo had allowed the two brothers to sleep on their own, and she had been sleeping with Xin'er. Perhaps because Xin'er was still young and lacked her father's company, they always wanted to sleep with their mother.
"Then tell us a bedtime story tonight!"
Xin'er happily lifted the quilt and climbed in.
"Alright, tonight, it's up to you." Su Zimo felt that there was no happier time than this. She didn't need much. This simple happiness was enough.
The three siblings smiled instantly. Their favorite thing was listening to their mother's bedtime stories. Even if they heard the same stories every night, they never grew tired of them. Through these stories, they learned many valuable lessons.
"There once was an old horse and a young pony living in Ma Pengli. One day, the old horse said to the pony, 'You have grown up, and now you can help your mother with something...'" Su Zimo told them the story of the pony crossing the river. After telling five stories in a row, the three siblings gradually closed their eyes.
Su Zimo smiled happily as she adjusted their blankets and prepared to sleep. However, she heard a noise on the roof.
Alert, she immediately got up.
Mu Yunxuan suddenly appeared in her room.
With his magnificent and peerless demeanor, he exuded an elegant aura. His deep black eyes gazed intently at Su Zimo.
Su Zimo's tone was rather unpleasant as she asked, "Why are you here?"
Mu Yunxuan seemed jealous, his attitude towards Murong Shaofeng being completely different from his attitude towards him. This obvious contrast made him feel very unhappy.
It's no wonder that Su Zimo saw Murong Shaofeng as a godsend, while Mu Yunxuan had been the one who pushed her into despair.
Frowning, Su Zimo was displeased. "How long have you been here? Your presence went unnoticed by my people. What level of cultivation have the two of you attained?"
"I arrived when Murong Shaofeng did," Mu Yunxuan replied without hiding anything. After Yun Han left, he realized that Murong Shaofeng might visit Mingyue Villa today. The thought consumed him, making it impossible for him to sit still. He immediately went to Mingyue Villa, but he didn't expect to encounter a completely different Su Zimo. In front of him, she acted cautiously, like a defensive tiger. However, in front of Murong Shaofeng, she revealed her true self without pretense.
Their meeting had redefined their relationship. Since they had met, their story had been filled with surprises. It was Su Zimo who stirred up a storm in his heart, responsible for everything until the end. Mu Yunxuan's feelings were singularly focused, and Su Zimo had left a unique impression on him. Seeing her again only reignited his concern and attraction.
The night was calm, with moonlight softly filtering through the window screens, casting a gentle glow over their figures.
In the quiet night, tears welled up in front of the window. Their reunion stirred up sorrow and pain.
Su Zimo shook her head and let out a soft breath. "You're not welcome here. Leave!"
"Do you think I came to see you? I'm here to see my children."
Mu Yunxuan's jealousy and anger were evident in his handsome face, which had turned terrifyingly grim. Even Su Zimo, who stood not far away, could sense the chill emanating from him.
Mu Yunxuan walked towards the bed, gazing at the three children who resembled him and each other. Remembering the heartwarming scene earlier, he felt as if he had a place in that picture. The warmth and happiness it depicted captivated him, making it impossible to tear his eyes away. Although he also had parents, they had never shown him such warmth.
"Su Zimo, thank you! Thank you for taking such good care of them and teaching them so well."
Mu Yunxuan turned his back to Su Zimo, his handsome face expressing gratitude. He could imagine that it hadn't been easy for her.
Su Zimo looked at Mu Yunxuan's back, momentarily lost in thought. She hadn't expected him to say such words. In life, everyone experiences sorrow and joy, and grievances are difficult to tally. Su Zimo didn't know if she harbored hatred or unwillingness towards him, but she knew that she felt anger and resentment every time she saw him.
"You don't need to thank me. They are my children, and it's natural for me to take care of them."
"Su Zimo, I'm sorry. Regardless of what happened in the past, I hope you can forgive me. Our marriage may have resurrected you and me. It signifies the intertwining of our fates, which will endure throughout our lives. No one can escape it."
After speaking, Mu Yunxuan turned around, cast a deep gaze at Su Zimo, and vanished from the room.