Chapter 273
“Chu Lishu, I’ll take you away from here. We’ll leave behind all the grudges and start a new life. I swear, I’ll make you happy every day, never let you cry again. I swear, I’ll take care of you, protect you, and never let you suffer again. I’ll cherish you like the most precious treasure in the world, let you live the simplest and happiest life, far away from all worries and sorrows.”
“I can’t express it, but I’ll help you ascend to the throne, so I can stay. If you don’t succeed, I’ll die…”
…
“Qingyang, don’t lie to me this time. Say that you love me, and I’ll believe you. But from now on, you’ll truly belong to me.”
“Chu Lishu… Yuan Ran, I… love you, admire you, and my heart delights in you.”
“Well said.”
…
“Do you want me?”
“Yes!”
…
“If the prophecy really comes true and something happens to me, the worst, I die. Yuan Ran, you’ll join me in death. We’ll die together, see how that damn prophecy unfolds.”
“Alright, I’ll join you in death.”
…
“Lin Qingyang, you can’t leave me now. Never even think about leaving me.”
“Mmm, I’ll never leave, I’ll always be with you.”
…
Broken lamp fixtures, half of it plunged into his abdomen, the other half grasped by Lin Qingyang and viciously stabbed into her own heart. Blood gushed out, coloring everything red. He watched in agony as Lin Qingyang slowly fell, his heart torn apart… When he woke up again, Lin Qingyang wasn’t by his side.
He hated… he resented it so much. Everyone was against him, except for Lin Qingyang. He only had Lin Qingyang… If he lost him, he would be buried with the whole world.
Yuan Ran suddenly woke up from his sleep. The enhanced sleeping incense beside him was useless; he felt like he had only slept for half an hour.
The fading dreams left Yuan Ran unable to grasp them, only waves of palpitations and anxiety lingering in his body. His heart rate couldn’t seem to slow down.
Yuan Ran gasped for breath as he sat up, his mind blank. With lightning-fast agility, he left the palace, unnoticed by the night guard, Lu Shi, who only saw the curtains of the bed gently swaying.
After the intimate contact with Lin Qingyang today, images he was ashamed of kept flashing in his mind. Yuan Ran was desperate about his past self. Once hailed as the serene and elegant Crown Prince, he didn’t know how others perceived him now.
That feeling of being out of control and unable to predict was terrible. He feared recalling any more disturbing scenes and couldn’t understand them based on his current memories. So, interacting with Lin Qingyang became even more awkward, to the point where he couldn’t even look at him properly. He decided to rest early.
But he still couldn’t sleep. Even in his dreams, Lin Qingyang disturbed him.
Although the memories of the dream were already fading, the heart-wrenching feeling lingered, burning his soul. He had to see Lin Qingyang to calm down.
Lin Qingyang was peacefully asleep in the side chamber, the curtains swaying gently as a hand lifted them. Moonlight streamed in, illuminating Lin Qingyang’s serene form, fast asleep.
Yuan Ran gazed silently for a while, unable to resist sitting down. He reached out and gently touched Lin Qingyang’s warm cheek, feeling his racing heart gradually calm down.
Feeling the touch on his face, Lin Qingyang squirmed a bit, instinctively rubbing his cheek against the pillow. He looked like a child, sleeping soundly and carefree, his posture not quite graceful. But upon closer inspection, he seemed to be embracing the blanket, as if holding someone.
Was it out of habit?
Yuan Ran’s eyes flickered, feeling a slight flutter in his heart. But then he watched as Lin Qingyang suddenly violently threw off the blanket and kicked his feet to the end of the bed.
Yuan Ran: …
Seeing Lin Qingyang sweating on his neck and forehead, it was evident he was feeling hot.
True, it’s the height of summer after all. Sleeping with a blanket in this heat would naturally make anyone feel hot. If only he were embracing me instead, I could use my inner strength to regulate the temperature, maybe make him feel a bit cooler…
Yuan Ran thought to himself, his mind a jumble of thoughts. Suddenly, he realized that this room was indeed hotter than his own.
The side chamber, unlike the main hall, was simpler in furnishings, but why hadn’t the palace attendants prepared some ice to cool Lin Qingyang down?
Yuan Ran looked around and realized that it wasn’t that they hadn’t prepared, but rather that it had already been used up. After all, this wasn’t his usual sleeping place, and the palace attendants couldn’t be expected to be so meticulous in their care. Although it was considered taking care of Lin Qingyang, Yuan Ran felt it wasn’t right given his relationship with him.
How could he be so clueless? Doesn’t he understand his own status? Can’t he learn to be proud of his favor? Haven’t he slept here for a few days without feeling hot? He should have proactively asked the attendants for help. How could he be so careless and indifferent towards himself?
Yuan Ran had more or less figured out Lin Qingyang’s temperament: kind, friendly, not pretentious or willful. He had a very good temper, but he wasn’t the kind of person who would allow himself to be bullied. Most of the time, he seemed indifferent because he genuinely didn’t mind, but to Yuan Ran, it seemed like he was being wronged.
Yuan Ran couldn’t help but reproach his past self for only understanding romance but not taking care of his beloved properly. Instead of nurturing indulgence, he had made Lin Qingyang cautious and guarded. Wasn’t this indirectly reflecting that the past Yuan Ran hadn’t taken good care of him?
Yuan Ran couldn’t help but feel disgusted with himself. Had he experienced great difficulties and then fallen ill to the point where he didn’t care about these details? If not, he would definitely treat Lin Qingyang better than the past Yuan Ran did, being more attentive and ensuring Lin Qingyang received meticulous care. He would make Lin Qingyang understand that his affection could enable him to be proud and unruly, roaming freely in the palace.
Just as he was lost in thought, the quiet environment was suddenly interrupted by the sound of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes were usually repelled in the palace, so how…
Yuan Ran focused his gaze and indeed found mosquitoes. He reached out and killed several of them. Then, he lowered his head to carefully inspect Lin Qingyang and noticed mosquito bites on his neck, occasionally scratching it.
Yuan Ran became somewhat angry. He was about to reprimand the palace attendants outside when he realized the windows in the room were wide open. The palace attendants wouldn’t make such a mistake, so did Lin Qingyang open them himself before falling asleep? And the open windows were directly facing the windows of his own palace.
Was he afraid that something might happen on his side and he wouldn’t be able to know about it right away?
Yuan Ran felt a strange sensation in his heart, a mix of emotions, perhaps jealousy.
Seeing Lin Qingyang still scratching, afraid he might break the skin, Yuan Ran gently moved his hand away and found some anti-itch cream in the room to apply to him.
Yuan Ran was lost in thought when suddenly Lin Qingyang seemed to stir as if he had been disturbed. Yuan Ran instantly snapped out of it, too afraid to move because his actions were not only incomprehensible to himself but also made it impossible for him to explain to Lin Qingyang.
However, Lin Qingyang was still half asleep, just slightly uncomfortable. He moved his neck and reluctantly opened his eyes to take a look. “Stop it… Lishu.”
Those two unfamiliar words, a man’s name, caused Yuan Ran’s body to stiffen instantly. A surge of nameless anger rose within him. How could Lin Qingyang, his own person, call someone else’s name in his sleep?
Lishu… Lishu… Wait? Isn’t that my name?
Emotions churned within him for a moment, but Yuan Ran quickly realized. He suddenly felt as embarrassed as a deflated balloon. That was the alias of his former identity. It was normal for Lin Qingyang, who was half asleep, to call him by that name.
“Shouldn’t you be calling me Yuan Ran?” Yuan Ran muttered discontentedly.
Suddenly, Lin Qingyang unconsciously grabbed the hand Yuan Ran was applying ointment with, as if soothing the restless hand, and gently placed a kiss on his wrist.
“Sleep well.”
Yuan Ran’s hand trembled slightly, feeling something unusual where he was kissed, tightening his chest involuntarily.
But soon, Lin Qingyang followed the motion of grabbing his hand and fell asleep again. Yuan Ran couldn’t help but feel helpless. “You sleep so soundly.”
With his amnesia, not being able to sleep together, not being close to him, he didn’t feel sad at all.
Yuan Ran wanted to pull his hand back, but he couldn’t move it, and he didn’t dare to wake him up by pulling too hard. After a moment of contemplation, he glanced around, ensuring that there was no one around, before flipping over and lying down beside Lin Qingyang.
Inwardly consoling himself, he was just trying to see if he could only sleep peacefully beside Lin Qingyang. After all, he needed rest too.
Yuan Ran lay stiffly, except for the wrist held by Lin Qingyang, he barely touched the other.
But Lin Qingyang was different. Sensing the familiar presence, he instinctively curled up in the person’s arms. Knowing that this person’s embrace was warm in winter and cool in summer, and free from mosquito disturbances, it was the most comfortable place to sleep.
However, Yuan Ran was disturbed. Lin Qingyang’s hands and feet were all over him, and eventually, unable to withstand the strange tingling sensation in his heart, he turned over and let Lin Qingyang hold him in the most comfortable position.
Once Lin Qingyang settled into a peaceful embrace, Yuan Ran was shocked. He regretted his reaction immediately. How could he have compromised so easily, allowing himself to be held by another man? It must feel so awkward! He was used to sleeping alone, and having someone close made him vigilant, making it impossible for him to fall asleep. Even when it came to spending nights with Lu Yi and Lu Shi, he always maintained a distance.
Even if they said his habits had changed, now that he had amnesia, he was definitely not accustomed to it. How could he have thought he could give it a try?
Yuan Ran repeatedly blamed himself for his foolishness. Even with amnesia, his principles of conduct shouldn’t have changed. Why did he make so many exceptions?
This is too strange.
Yuan Ran shook his head. He had his own reservations. Without a big wedding, without an official appointment, how could… they be sleeping like this? How would he explain it in the morning? Forget it, he needed to get up quickly.
Yuan Ran couldn’t resist the urge to break away from this position anymore. But as soon as he moved slightly, there was the risk of waking Lin Qingyang.
Lin Qingyang opened his eyes drowsily, his voice soft and moist, murmuring, “Yuan Ran?”
Yuan Ran quickly stopped moving. Suddenly, he felt a sense of discomfort even if Lin Qingyang didn’t call him by his pseudonym. It was as if his future empress were calling out another man’s name.
Even the name “Yuan Ran” felt unfamiliar to him.
Yuan Ran furrowed his brows involuntarily and couldn’t help but complain, “What’s the use of calling him? He hasn’t remembered anything.”
“Yuan Ran?” Lin Qingyang maintained the posture of embracing the other, his sleepy eyes blurry and unable to focus, his tone slightly questioning, as if confirming the person beside him.
Yuan Ran hesitated slightly, but ultimately responded before Lin Qingyang could furrow his brow, “I’m here.”
The sound that came out was unexpectedly soft, like a gentle breeze, as if afraid of waking someone.
Lin Qingyang seemed to relax, but in the next moment, he leaned forward habitually and planted a kiss on Yuan Ran’s lips.
In the quiet room, under the gentle canopy, the light kiss fell like a feather. Yuan Ran suddenly widened his eyes, holding his breath involuntarily. He could feel Lin Qingyang brushing against him before withdrawing, leaving Yuan Ran stunned by the lingering sensation.
A kiss… This was the first time in his memory.
Every bone in Yuan Ran’s body trembled because of this casual kiss.
Yuan Ran lowered his gaze, and in an instant, his pure black eyes deepened. It wasn’t the beautiful obsidian anymore; it turned into a bottomless abyss. But when the warmth returned to his lips, Yuan Ran suddenly snapped out of it. His eyes cleared, and he realized that he had followed Lin Qingyang’s lips and leaned in, covering them again.
It was almost like… seeking a kiss actively.
This… this… crossing boundaries while someone slept was too much.
Yuan Ran immediately felt like a guilty party. He quickly straightened up, then awkwardly pressed his lips together and resumed lying straight, assuming the posture of a qualified pillow.
This time, Yuan Ran really dared not move.
He had thought it would be another sleepless night, but gradually, he found himself drifting off amidst the calming rhythm of Lin Qingyang’s breathing and the comfortable warmth.
When he woke up, sunlight was already streaming in.
Yuan Ran felt like he hadn’t slept this well in a long time, especially with the comforting feeling of being held in someone’s arms… Wait a minute! In someone’s arms!
In an instant, Yuan Ran jolted awake, opening his eyes to see Lin Qingyang tightly embraced in his arms.
Their positions had changed, with Lin Qingyang now facing away from him, nestled in his embrace.
Yuan Ran couldn’t escape even if he wanted to, as his arm was currently serving as Lin Qingyang’s pillow.
Seeing Lin Qingyang about to wake up, Yuan Ran, in desperation, pinched the back of Lin Qingyang’s neck to keep him in a state of drowsiness.
Only then did he extricate himself from the situation and make a hasty escape.
As Yuan Ran swiftly escaped through the side hall’s gate and just managed to stand firm, two figures descended before him—it was Lu Yi and Lu Shi, the two guards stationed here. Meanwhile, the palace attendants who should have been outside were all arranged to leave.
While Lu Yi calmly observed Yuan Ran, Lu Shi was full of resentment. It was his turn for night duty last night, but when Lu Yi came to relieve him this morning, they found their master missing. Lu Shi received a severe reprimand, but the two guards quickly determined where their master was.
Sure enough, he was with Lin Qingyang.
And they were sleeping together.
What on earth was going on?
Lu Yi spoke up, asking, “Has Master regained your memory?”
Yuan Ran, feeling uneasy, shook his head. The morning breeze reminded him of the absurdity of last night, making him too ashamed to face what he had done. It was rude and illogical. Wanting to avoid the topic, he lifted his foot and headed towards his main hall.
Lu Shi, impatiently, asked, “Then why didn’t the master say anything last night before…” Although Lu Yi and Lu Shi were Yuan Ran’s bodyguards, their martial arts skills were no match for Yuan Ran’s. If Yuan Ran wanted to avoid them, they would find it difficult to notice.
Yuan Ran paused in his steps, coughed lightly with his back turned to the two guards, and said somewhat stiffly, “Today’s events… must be kept confidential.”
Lu Yi and Lu Shi exchanged a glance, both puzzled, but as members of the Shadow Wolves, they naturally followed Yuan Ran’s orders.
Later, when Lin Qingyang woke up, he saw the Chief Steward Hai personally coming to apologize to him.
“What’s going on?” Lin Qingyang looked puzzled.
“It’s all the fault of this servant’s negligence. My lord is temporarily staying here, and this servant should have arranged everything properly. My lord, please don’t be angry. Today, my lord will go to court first, and when he returns, he will surely find it more comfortable.” Chief Steward Hai said cautiously, then called dozens of palace attendants to start changing the side hall.
Lin Qingyang was truly full of question marks. When he returned from court, he found that the side hall had become much cooler, and the mosquito repellent used was of the highest quality.
Wasn’t this a bit exaggerated?
Having lived in the palace for a long time, Lin Qingyang naturally understood that such treatment was only for the Emperor and Empress. How could a side hall possibly need such treatment? So when he went to the study later, he couldn’t help but mention the matter and ask Yuan Ran about it.
Yuan Ran continued to review the memorials without lifting his head, saying, “It’s probably because Chief Steward Hai overlooked it before. After all, your status should be served in this manner, right?”
Lin Qingyang was somewhat surprised that the amnesiac Yuan Ran could still consider their relationship and assume that he could be treated this way. It was truly thoughtful and kind of him, worthy of being the Crown Prince.
Lin Qingyang also felt fortunate. His treatment in the palace had improved, and the officials who used to mock him behind his back had stopped. Even last night…
Thinking of this, Lin Qingyang smiled.
“Are you happy?” Yuan Ran heard the voice and stole a glance, unable to help but ask.
Lin Qingyang smiled and said, “Your Highness, did you come to see me last night?”
At these words, Yuan Ran’s hand paused, and he accidentally spilled some ink. Feeling guilty, he stammered, “What?”
Lin Qingyang shrugged it off, “You didn’t come? I thought so. I must have dreamt of you last night. It was a good dream.”
Yuan Ran’s ears immediately flushed. Dreams of kissing and hugging? How could he say such enticing words so blatantly, especially in the study where they should be focused on official matters! Although it was a misunderstanding last night, it wasn’t appropriate to directly mention dreaming of him like this. It was almost like openly seeking favor, strongly implying something, wasn’t it?
Yuan Ran had felt ashamed for the occasional recollection of those images, but now he wondered if it was Lin Qingyang’s proactive actions that led him to do those exaggerated things. After all, he wasn’t that kind of person, and last night it was Lin Qingyang who made the first move.
Looking at the ruined paper, Yuan Ran could only set aside his brush and calmly said, “There’s no need to rush, didn’t we agree on one month?”
“I’m not rushing, it’s just…” Lin Qingyang paused here, unable to help but gaze affectionately at Yuan Ran’s face. Watching him handle state affairs with such seriousness as the Crown Prince always made him distracted, making him unable to resist the desire to get closer, yet having to hold back. Despite knowing this man belonged to him, he couldn’t approach him now, which was somewhat frustrating.
Yuan Ran could clearly notice Lin Qingyang’s intense gaze, naturally attributing it to Lin Qingyang’s instinctive desire to lure him. However, unfortunately, he wasn’t the same Yuan Ran as before.
“Ahem, speaking of which, regarding the Liu family, what do you think? I’ll listen to your opinion,” Yuan Ran tactfully changed the subject to divert Lin Qingyang’s attention.
“Didn’t Your Highness already exonerate the Liu family?” Lin Qingyang asked, puzzled.
Yuan Ran looked at Lin Qingyang somewhat helplessly and said, “I mean, what do you want to do for the Liu family? Have you ever considered granting them grace and rewards?”
Lin Qingyang chuckled, “You have your own standards, and I’ve never interfered in this aspect. So don’t ask me. Besides, the matters concerning the Liu family are all decided by my eldest cousin. Your Highness originally had cooperation with my cousin, and there might have been commitments made earlier. I’m not very clear about the specifics. Maybe you should discuss it with him when he arrives in the capital.”
Yuan Ran frowned and said, “Don’t you understand? Based on our relationship, you can request rewards higher than anyone else.”
Lin Qingyang shook his head, saying, “How could I? You’ve always been fair, regardless of the circumstances.”
A heaviness settled in Yuan Ran’s heart. Indeed, he had always strived for fairness; otherwise, he wouldn’t have treated the Xie family as he did. Yet, he was also human, with his own biases, though they tended towards fairness. But Lin Qingyang was different. Yuan Ran knew that his past self would have made exceptions for Lin Qingyang, even at the expense of his principles. And now, he… was willing to be biased.
However, Lin Qingyang continued to shake his head, as if everything were expected. If it were anyone else, Yuan Ran might have thought they were being overly cautious. But Yuan Ran knew that Lin Qingyang simply understood him too well and held him in her heart, unwilling to see him compromise his principles in any way. Lin Qingyang naturally upheld those principles for him.
Even Jiang Rouyin, the former fiancee of the Crown Prince, although polite and humble, knew how to leverage the Crown Prince’s name for her own benefit. Yuan Ran considered this behavior normal. But Lin Qingyang was different; he seemed to give unconditionally, without expecting anything in return.
Why was he like this? Did loving someone wholeheartedly really make them behave this way?
Yuan Ran couldn’t understand, but he couldn’t help feeling envious. Yet, the thought of this person belonging to him made him proud.
“Alright, I’ll wait for Cousin Liu to return to the capital,” Yuan Ran said with a faint smile.
But Lin Qingyang was happy all day simply because of Yuan Ran’s natural use of the term “Cousin Liu.” He couldn’t help but think that the Crown Prince was really gentle.
That night, after tossing and turning, Yuan Ran got up again and headed towards the side hall.
He just wanted to see if the steward had fixed up the side hall…
I just want to sleep well…
I just didn’t want to disturb Lin Qingyang, so I became a pillow…
I just… huh? Why isn’t it happening tonight?
Yuan Ran moved slightly, and Lin Qingyang, half-asleep, couldn’t even open his eyes.
“Yuan Ran?”
“I’m here.”
With a habitual kiss, Lin Qingyang continued sleeping.
Only then did Yuan Ran smile faintly and peacefully fell asleep.
In the morning, as Yuan Ran looked at the expressionless looks of Lu Yi and Lu Shi, he adjusted his inner garment, gently closed the door, and then walked back to his palace naturally, like a gallant lover stealing fragrance at night.
From then on, it was the same every night.
Lu Shi’s face turned green, his fingers trembling as he pointed inside the hall, then gestured towards the Crown Prince.
“Was our Master like this five years ago? And now, not letting us tell Lin Qingyang, isn’t this taking advantage of him?”
Lu Yi raised an eyebrow, adopting a worldly-wise demeanor. “What nonsense are you talking? Isn’t it all good? Lin Qingyang sleeps more soundly, the master can sleep peacefully too, everyone’s happy.”
And the closer the master got to Lin Qingyang, the less likely he would be swayed by others during his memory loss period, and accept proposals like immediately choosing a consort after ascending the throne.
…
Finally, the day of the coronation arrived.
Yuan Ran noticed Lin Qingyang’s particularly excited mood today, a feeling he didn’t understand. But he couldn’t help feeling guilty because last night, his confidants celebrated for him in the palace, they had a bit to drink, and Lin Qingyang slept even more deeply, unconsciously cuddling up to him.
Yuan Ran, being a man of integrity, naturally wouldn’t… wouldn’t… he just felt sorry for Lin Qingyang, trying to help him relieve some discomfort. After all, because of their relationship, he had an obligation to help Lin Qingyang. It was also his first experience with such a strange situation, seeing Lin Qingyang in his arms clinging to him like he was drowning, vulnerable and dependent. Under his control, he made unbearable sounds, his expression gradually becoming alluring. He felt like the whole world had changed, not feeling strange or unclean, just feeling… thirsty.
Of course, he didn’t do anything. Without memories of being in love with Lin Qingyang, he naturally couldn’t easily get close to a man.
But seeing Lin Qingyang so happy made him suspicious. He tried to ask probing questions, but Lin Qingyang always brushed them off in a strange way, saying he would know once he regained his memory. However, he always felt like he was being excluded from Lin Qingyang’s relationship with another Yuan Ran, which made him uncomfortable.
Moreover, on such an important day as the coronation ceremony, Lin Qingyang was actually daydreaming in the court, even though he had been gazing at him affectionately before, his expression almost ecstatic as if he had been reborn. He couldn’t shake off the feeling that he had missed something important, feeling very anxious. He didn’t like seeing Lin Qingyang’s expression at the moment, as if only Lin Qingyang was in a world he couldn’t touch, as if Lin Qingyang would disappear if he didn’t bring his attention back to himself. It was a strange feeling indeed.
When it came to rewards, and seeing that Lin Qingyang hadn’t received any surprised looks from the people below, Yuan Ran finally couldn’t help but call out Lin Qingyang’s name, using it as an excuse to ask what he wanted, to show his concern for him. He didn’t want the courtiers to speculate.
Although they had discussed the matter of the Liu family before, they had not discussed Lin Qingyang’s rewards.
Lin Qingyang was indeed lost in thought. With Yuan Ran’s reminder, he finally realized what Yuan Ran had said. Just as he was about to bow, he was stopped by Yuan Ran.
Yuan Ran didn’t like it when Lin Qingyang bowed to him. It just didn’t feel right to him, so he tried to prevent Lin Qingyang from kneeling whenever possible.
Lin Qingyang probably thought Yuan Ran’s sudden question was just a show, so he casually expected some gold, silver, and jewels as a reward. Lin Qingyang didn’t pay much attention, just finished his compliments and got through this ordeal.
Yuan Ran realized he shouldn’t have asked Lin Qingyang. He was afraid Lin Qingyang would misunderstand and think he didn’t want to marry him or make him his consort, which would hurt him.
Actually, Yuan Ran could announce it now, but… he couldn’t even get close to Lin Qingyang. Although they had been secretly sleeping together, he hadn’t thought about taking it further. Even just recalling the images was overwhelming for him. Well, he’d wait until the end of the month, then he’d understand.
Just now, he was momentarily confused and brought up the matter, but quickly shifted the topic.
Now that Yuan Ran has ascended to the throne, there isn’t much that can bother him so much. Only Lin Qingyang disturbs all his thoughts. If Yuan Ran himself is like a tranquil lake, full of vitality and tranquility, then Lin Qingyang is definitely like a gust of wind, making that tranquil lake instantly turbulent, and it never stops.
Wearing the dragon robe and hearing the change in address, Yuan Ran didn’t feel much discomfort. But when he didn’t see Lin Qingyang following him, he felt uneasy.
After asking, he remembered that Lin Qingyang was leaving the palace today.
Lin Qingyang is a free man and it’s normal for him to come and go from the palace for personal matters.
But as Yuan Ran moved his feet, the Silver Rainbow wrapped around his wrist seemed to be restless.
With Lin Qingyang absent, Yuan Ran didn’t have the heart to do anything else, so he could only summon Chang Jun.
Chang Jun is now placed in the Ministry of Works by Yuan Ran. This time, Yuan Ran brought him in hoping that he would renovate the entire palace, especially the bedchambers where he, as the emperor, would reside.
Chang Jun looked at the requirements given by Yuan Ran, feeling puzzled but not daring to ask.
According to his original understanding, the emperor’s bedchambers are meant for solitary occupancy, so the related designs are primarily focused on a single master. Normally, when the emperor visits the harem, lodging in the consorts’ chambers is considered separate. After all, consorts are not allowed to stay in the emperor’s bedchambers.
But the requirements given by Yuan Ran seemed to completely disregard this norm, giving the impression that the emperor’s bedchambers would be used by two masters simultaneously, like an ordinary couple.
Chang Jun could only double-check these requirements several times before preparing the design drawings.
That night, Lin Qingyang did not return. Yuan Ran didn’t have to climb onto the bed in the side chamber anymore, reassuring himself that his insomnia had been cured. However, he still couldn’t sleep because he felt that something was missing.
Yuan Ran couldn’t help but say a word, but was immediately rebuffed by Lu Shi. Naturally, he wouldn’t consider the proposals of ministers, and Lin Qingyang understood him. Even if he didn’t know, even if he did know, he shouldn’t let such matters upset him and not return.
But the next moment, Yuan Ran lost his composure.
What?
Two women?
And they both had feelings for Lin Qingyang? One is… Pei Jin, the fake son of the Pei family? The other is the princess of the Western Moon Kingdom?
Although he knew that these two had also helped him, he could entertain them. But why would Lin Qingyang entertain them?
Previous incidents with Dai Xueyang can be dismissed, as there were no romantic feelings between them, so there’s nothing much to say about their closeness. But Lin Qingyang must have known that these two girls liked him, right? Why didn’t he try to avoid any misunderstandings? With Lu Yi’s reminder, he remembered warning these two girls not to harbor any inappropriate feelings for Lin Qingyang, and they understood. Yuan Ran couldn’t ignore the fact that he had done something so embarrassing before, his mind filled with Lin Qingyang now being in the same room with girls who had feelings for him.
He’s clearly together with me now!
Yuan Ran couldn’t contain his anger, but when Lu Yi suggested bringing the person back, he felt that something was off.
Was he… being too concerned?
Yuan Ran resisted the idea of letting Lin Qingyang’s every move affect his emotions, as if his father was influenced by his mother. Although it’s not necessarily a bad thing, as an emperor, he shouldn’t be like that.
Moreover, he hadn’t remembered their love for each other yet, so letting it affect him was even more inappropriate. He needed to adjust his mindset before recovering his memories.
Yuan Ran had some reservations about what Lin Qingyang had done this time. How could someone who had shown such good judgment before act like this now?
Suddenly, Yuan Ran thought, maybe Lin Qingyang was angry.
Yes, for Lin Qingyang, it had been many days since they were close. It’s said that they used to be together day and night. At first, Lin Qingyang could understand, but over time, it was inevitable that his mood would be affected. Lin Qingyang didn’t know that Yuan Ran was still his pillow every night, which was a bit… unavoidable, given that the Crown Prince was thin-skinned.
Perhaps out of anger, he deliberately acted in such an inappropriate manner. Yuan Ran had previously thought that Lin Qingyang wasn’t sad or angry, but now it seemed like he couldn’t hold it in anymore, deliberately throwing a tantrum. But in the end, this couldn’t really be blamed on himself, after all, it was due to amnesia.
Yuan Ran kept thinking like this, and unsurprisingly, he didn’t sleep all night.
The next day at court, Yuan Ran decided to give Lin Qingyang a reminder, letting him know that he needed to control his behavior a bit, and by the way… ask him to come back to sleep together. But Lin Qingyang didn’t show up?
Was he with his lover? Skipping court? And there was even a minister proposing the selection of an empress, which was like stepping on Yuan Ran’s sore spot.
“All you ministers don’t care about the suffering of the common people all day, but you’re so concerned about the affairs of my harem. Truly the pillars of the nation…”
Feeling the new emperor’s anger was obvious. A monarch who seldom got angry suddenly losing his temper was even more terrifying, as everyone still remembered how formidable the Crown Prince used to be. Beneath his benevolent facade lay absolute decisiveness, so the ministers dared not say more.
After court, Yuan Ran immediately sent Lu Yi to fetch the disobedient person.
Lin Qingyang hadn’t arrived yet, but Mu Huichun had. Seeing Yuan Ran angry, Mu Huichun asked about it.
Yuan Ran couldn’t quite figure it out himself, so he couldn’t explain his emotions to Mu Huichun. However, he sensed something strange about Mu Huichun. With some knowledge of medicine, he naturally felt something different.
But after learning that Mu Huichun was tasked with making medicine, Yuan Ran regretted asking, feeling embarrassed.
Seeing the look in Mu Huichun’s eyes, Yuan Ran felt unjustly accused. He wasn’t that lascivious person at all. Clearly, it was Lin Qingyang who… when they slept together, he would hold him, kiss him, and even…
It seemed that Lin Qingyang had such needs. Could that be the reason for the recent tension? These days, except for the night before the coronation, he should have endured it. Enduring it for so long, naturally, he would blame this irresponsible amnesiac lover.
How about… trying to comfort him?
That night, he was also a bit… warm.
Maybe it’s worth a try.
Lin Qingyang returned, looking visibly unwell. Yuan Ran didn’t hesitate anymore. He reminded Lin Qingyang, seemingly forgetting that this was still the study, and it was broad daylight.
Yuan Ran stared at Lin Qingyang intently, waiting for his shy and timid improper requests.
But what came out were all sorts of random requests!
Heh, the monarch would never go back on his word. He requested for an outing? Alright, he agreed.
Before leaving, he even requested a hug? Not even thinking about it. If he dared to walk with other women, he shouldn’t expect to hug me.
And Lin Qingyang actually just left like that?
Not even asking for a hug?
He must be sulking. It must be a way of sulking against me, otherwise, why would he make such requests, saying he would never leave me?
Wanting me to beg him, chase after him. Previously, I thought he wouldn’t be spoiled, but it seems he’s just not spoiled in other aspects, but very much so in love. Now he’s gone too far. Probably, he’s like this usually, that’s why I’ve become Yuan Ran who clings to Lin Qingyang in the eyes of others. Otherwise, how could I…
No, calm down. Lin Qingyang is just venting his frustration, I can’t indulge him. Lin Qingyang definitely wouldn’t want to leave. He even wants to be held while sleeping, how could someone so attached to me leave for so long?
Clearly, he’s still unsatisfied with something, so he definitely won’t leave.
I should just focus on what I need to do, I can’t spend all day revolving around love and emotions.
Attend the court!
…
“I heard that this morning, Lord Lin and the beauties went out for a trip together, quite enviable, so let’s discuss it.”
That sentence hit like a thunderbolt, awakening the soul.
Lord Lin? The beauties? Out for a trip… Gone? He’s really gone?
He doesn’t… need him anymore?
A surge of anger shot up to the sky, as if his soul was forcefully ripped away. Something inside him was screaming, his mind almost went blank, uncontrollable hostility enveloped his body, wishing to tie the person in Silver Rainbow and keep him by his side, never to leave even for a moment.
Want to leave?
Want to leave him?
Impossible! In this lifetime, for eternity, it’s impossible!
Lin Qingyang, you are mine!
Yuan Ran wanted to possess Lin Qingyang, relentlessly claiming him in the most insane manner. He listened to Lin Qingyang’s pleas, cries, and forced confessions of love and promises. Lin Qingyang’s lost his senses, only for Yuan Ran to manipulate his emotions. Yuan Ran couldn’t bear to let go of Lin Qingyang, wanting to merge him into his being, never to part. He enveloped Lin Qingyang with his presence repeatedly, layer upon layer, as if marking him as his own, making Lin Qingyang acutely aware of who he belonged to.
The constant tinkling of the silver bells, the movement of the carriage—only Lin Qingyang’s instinctual love could be seen and possessed by Yuan Ran. Even if Lin Qingyang tried to resist rationally, it was futile.
Yes, even without regaining his memories, this person belonged to him. This distance was the right way to be.
In the palace, at night, Yuan Ran finally found satisfaction after watching Lin Qingyang fall into a deep slumber. Afterward, he wrapped himself in his outer robe and headed to the study to pen a document.
The decree to appoint Lin Qingyang as Empress, sealed with the imperial seal, was proclaimed to the world.
This person wouldn’t be able to escape anymore.
However, even so, Yuan Ran wasn’t at ease. He decided to keep Lin Qingyang in the palace before the wedding, always by his side.
That night, Yuan Ran had just carried the unconscious Lin Qingyang back to the sleeping quarters from the study. He personally bathed and changed Lin Qingyang’s clothes, smiling satisfactorily at the Crown Prince’s seal left on Lin Qingyang’s abdomen. He intended to sleep peacefully while holding Lin Qingyang, but at that moment, Lin Qingyang woke up, lazily snuggling against him. It seemed like just a stretch, and he softly asked about the time, but it stimulated Yuan Ran.
Yuan Ran’s hand reached into Lin Qingyang’s robes, but in the next moment, his mind seemed to stop, memories flooding back continuously, yet they were not difficult to accept. It was as if he was gradually regaining his memory in the gentlest way possible.
Without any provocation, he still reacted in the next moment, anger rising.
“Yuan Ran! I want to sleep! If you keep this up, I’ll go sleep in the side chamber, or you can send me back to my residence before the wedding. I…” Lin Qingyang had just opened his mouth to complain when he was instantly suppressed by Yuan Ran’s strong force.
The sudden sense of danger caused Lin Qingyang to widen his eyes and look up at Yuan Ran, instantly realizing that something was wrong.
Yuan Ran’s dangerous eyes narrowed, his black pupils resembling a dark forest, filled with devouring and danger.
Familiar love and madness were hidden in every expression of Yuan Ran, making Lin Qingyang nervously swallow.
“Yuan… Yuan Ran?”
Yuan Ran’s lips curled up on one side, but there was no amusement in his eyes. “Planning to leave me while I’m still suffering from amnesia?”
Alarm bells rang loudly in Lin Qingyang’s mind. “No… it’s just a pre-wedding solo trip… Yuan Ran, you’ve regained your memory? That’s great! You have no idea how upset I’ve been. Lately, the way you looked at me felt so unfamiliar. I even started to doubt if you still liked me.”
Yuan Ran chuckled. “Is that so? Well then, I’ll have to comfort you properly.”
Lin Qingyang swallowed nervously once again. “Um… you’ve already comforted me, I’m fine now. Oh, by the way, our wedding is coming up soon. Now that you’ve recovered successfully, is there anything you want to change?”
Yuan Ran raised an eyebrow slightly, his gaze fixed on Lin Qingyang like a hunter eyeing its prey. Just one look made Lin Qingyang feel like he was being tasted by a dangerous predator.
Danger! Danger! Danger!
Lin Qingyang immediately backed down. “I’m sorry, I was wrong, I really was. I won’t… I won’t…”
Before Lin Qingyang could plead his case, the punishment from the real Yuan Ran began.
Starting with a kiss that seemed to want to take away every breath, for three days and three nights before the wedding, Lin Qingyang never left the bed again.
The author has something to say: I noticed someone mentioned that the ending of the extra seems a bit different from the main text. The extra and the main text are actually meant to complement each other. It’s just a matter of perspective. I wrote them in parallel. There shouldn’t be much discrepancy. If anyone feels that something is off, you can carefully compare them. If you still feel something is not right, feel free to point it out in the comments. Thank you for your support.
I’ll be going out tomorrow to celebrate the festival, so I want to wish everyone a happy Mid-Autumn Festival. See you the day after tomorrow at noon.
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