Chapter 88
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Celebration was certainly out of the question. Not to mention that Lin Qingyang couldn’t eat much, his body also showed some signs of trouble.
On that evening, after excitedly exploring their new courtyard and the one next door prepared for Chu Lishu, Lin Qingyang finally settled down and felt a bit of pain at the wound.
When he lifted his clothes to check, he found that the wound had somehow opened a bit, oozing a mixture of red and yellow fluid. Fortunately, they had brought a physician from the Marquis’s residence, the same old man who had scolded Lin Qingyang last time.
Before the physician had even finished setting up his new medical station, he was summoned to examine the wound. He was quite infuriated and almost scolded Lin Qingyang again.
Lin Qingyang originally intended to return to the academy tomorrow, but now he truly couldn’t go and had to rest for another day.
When the clock mercilessly struck 10, Lin Qingyang finally set out on the road back to the academy.
It was relatively close to the new estate to the academy, and he could probably make it to the literary class.
However, when he arrived at the foot of the mountain, Lin Qingyang felt a bit troubled.
Immediately, Shuncai volunteered, “Young Master, I can carry you up.”
Looking at Shuncai’s small arms and legs, then at his own taller and bulkier stature, he didn’t think Shuncai could carry him up these steps. Should he go up and find some sturdy academy servants to help?
Just as he was thinking about it, two sturdy academy servants descended the steps, each carrying a sedan chair.
Lin Qingyang: Did I just think and it happened? Is my luck really this good?
Shuncai was also surprised and hurriedly approached to inquire. As it turned out, they were there to pick up Lin Qingyang.
“Who sent you here?” Lin Qingyang asked in confusion.
“It was your cousin, Young Master Chu. He gave us a commission to come and escort you up.”
Upon hearing this, Lin Qingyang felt a mix of guilt, surprise, and gratitude.
Lin Qingyang felt guilty because he had previously pretended to agree to meet Chu Lishi after the New Year, but Chu Lishi arrived only three days later.
He was surprised that Chu Lishi knew exactly when to come!
What touched him was that Chu Lishi was very understanding and had made thoughtful arrangements. It seemed that their upgraded relationship was indeed something special. A tool in the hands of the male lead was treated exceptionally well.
It appeared that his previous worries might have been needless concerns.
With these thoughts, Lin Qingyang happily settled into the sedan chair and was effortlessly carried into the academy.
The head master of the academy was quite surprised to see Lin Qingyang, as Chu Lishi had previously mentioned that he would come after the New Year. Initially, the head master felt a bit regretful because Lin Qingyang had been performing well recently. His work at the Ministry of Rites was commendable, showing great potential. However, with this sudden leave, there was a concern that his momentum might be disrupted, and he could miss the opportunity to continue being a study companion.
Unexpectedly, this determined young man with physical challenges had persevered and arrived. The head master was pleased with his dedication and approved his request to rest from other martial arts classes.
When Lin Qingyang arrived at the Bamboo Garden, he surprised a group of people. These individuals had heard about his encounter with bandits. When they asked the other members of the Marquis’s residence studying at the academy, those individuals didn’t dare to speak casually. They only mentioned that he was resting at home, but they didn’t know the specific details. Consequently, many assumed he wouldn’t return, similar to his younger brother.
Due to the improvements in cuju matches, Lin Qingyang had received praises from the academy teachers recently. Additionally, his efforts in the Ministry of Rites had gained recognition, making him a model of a diligent student who turned the tide. Lin Qingyang’s interpersonal relationships seemed to have improved, with people actively greeting and caring about him.
After exchanging pleasantries for a while, Lin Qingyang didn’t find Chu Lishi in the crowd. Just as he was wondering, he heard a voice from behind.
“Brother Lin, why are you here?” exclaimed Xu Wenze in surprise.
As Lin Qingyang turned around, his gaze immediately fell on Chu Lishi. However, the curve of his lips froze under the icy stare from Chu Lishi.
“Uh… good… good morning,” Lin Qingyang greeted awkwardly.
Xu Wenze took a step forward, expressing concern, “I heard you were injured. How’s the recovery of your wound? Are you really not forcing yourself to come back to study?”
Lin Qingyang immediately seized the opportunity, saying, “No, not at all. I recovered quickly, and now I can do everything except attend martial arts classes.” While speaking, he sneakily glanced at Chu Lishi.
Whether it was his imagination or not, Chu Lishi’s expression seemed to darken. In the end, without saying a word, he turned and took a seat.
It seemed he was genuinely upset.
Xu Wenze also noticed and patted Lin Qingyang on the shoulder. “It seems that Brother Lishi is a bit startled. Don’t mind it. Come on, let’s go over and sit down.”
Lin Qingyang was not surprised; he was angry that he took action without authorization. Indeed, he believed that the male lead’s magnanimity was just a facade.
After Xu Wenzhe finished speaking, he reached out to try to support Lin Qingyang, seemingly instinctively worried about him pulling on the wound while moving.
When Lin Qingyang cautiously sat next to Chu Lishu, he saw that he only had a stern face without driving anyone away. Judging by the anger level, it shouldn’t be too high, salvageable.
Lin Qingyang quickly smiled and said, “Cousin, the move was successful. I’ve also arranged for someone to handle your courtyard. When you go see it later, if there’s anything unsatisfactory, we can make changes.”
Chu Lishu’s expression eased slightly, but he still remained silent.
Just then, Cheng Yi walked in and saw Lin Qingyang chatting attentively with Chu Lishu. He immediately frowned and said, “Lin Qingyang, you actually came back.”
Lin Qingyang looked at Cheng Yi with confusion, “When did Young Master Cheng become so concerned about me?”
“Pah, I’m not concerned about you. I pity your cousin. Finally, he could have a peaceful time without being harassed by you, and now you’re back to cling to him like a shadow.”
Before Lin Qingyang left, there were various rumors circulating, and Cheng Yi was referring to Chu Lishu’s previous attitude towards him, using very explicit language. It immediately triggered memories among the onlookers.
Lin Qingyang’s face turned unpleasant, “Young Master Cheng, it’s better to spend more time on your own studies and not waste time paying attention to others.”
Cheng Yi knew that Lin Qingyang was mocking his lack of accomplishments in literature, and he immediately retorted, “I heard that County Princess Yawen is on the verge of death, you don’t even accompany your mother. Instead, you follow your cousin every day. It’s truly pathetic.”
Lin Qingyang was instantly provoked and was about to stand up when his shoulder was held down. Turning his head, he saw Chu Lishu giving him a warning look.
Chu Lishu quickly changed his tone and said politely, “Young Master Cheng misunderstood. Aunt’s condition has improved a lot, and she’s stable now. Aunt has always hoped that Cousin could focus on his studies. Even though Cousin’s injuries haven’t fully healed, he was urged by Aunt to come and study. It’s out of filial piety that Cousin is so obedient. As younger generations, discussing the elder’s health in such a manner, and using those words… we naturally know that Young Master Cheng has no ill intentions. However, if it spreads, and Aunt happens to be in a bad condition at that time, then…”
Cheng Yi’s face changed instantly, angrily saying, “What nonsense are you talking about? When did I curse anyone!”
Lin Qingyang slammed the table abruptly, showing intense anger as he glared at Cheng Yi, saying, “I’m going to see the head master.”
Xu Wenzhe immediately cooperated, “Ah, we’re all classmates. Young Master Cheng probably didn’t mean it. Young Master Cheng, you should apologize quickly.”
Cheng Yi found himself in a difficult situation, looking at the gazes of the others. Filled with anger, he trembled all over, and in the end, he could only swallow this humiliation, saying, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean anything bad about County Princess Yawen. I hope she’s healthy and lives a long life!”
Although his tone was not good, forcing Cheng Yi to apologize was still quite satisfying.
Cheng Yi was about to leave, but then Chu Lishu spoke again, “As for the term follower, it’s really a misunderstanding. Cousin has been working hard to study lately, wanting to accelerate his progress, so he has been discussing and studying with me daily, creating a misunderstanding. I’m really sorry.”
This time, Cheng Yi was really upset. He was about to turn around and scold, but Wang Tong’en happened to come in. As soon as he entered and saw Lin Qingyang, he laughed, “Oh, you really came. Not bad, not bad. Cheng Yi, I won the bet. Hand it over, one hundred taels!”
Lin Qingyang then realized that Cheng Yi targeted him because of a bet with Wang Tong’en. These two were really inserting themselves into each other’s contests. Cheng Yi wasn’t doing it for the one hundred taels; he just didn’t want to lose to Wang Tong’en. So, he took it out on Lin Qingyang.
With this disturbance, Cheng Yi’s attention shifted, and he focused on dealing with Wang Tong’en. Lin Qingyang immediately smiled and approached Chu Lishu, using a coquettish tone, saying, “Cousin…”
“What are you twisting your body for? Sit up straight, don’t lean over. I’m afraid you might strain your wound,” Chu Lishu sternly said.
Scared, Lin Qingyang hurriedly sat up straight, only daring to turn his head, looking at Chu Lishu with a face full of grievances.
Chu Lishu, however, continued to read his book, seemingly unwilling to pay attention to him.
Lin Qingyang was about to say something when someone stopped in front of him, “Here?”
Damn, do I still have such good popularity? So many people care about me? Why didn’t I have this treatment before? Lin Qingyang once again felt the difference between being a toolman and cannon fodder.
Lin Qingyang looked up and saw it was Pei Jin.
Pei Jin’s expression was somewhat complicated. After glancing up and down, she turned and left.
Lin Qingyang: ????
“Don’t look.” Suddenly, Chu Lishu’s voice came with a chill.
Lin Qingyang immediately shifted his gaze, smiling apologetically. Just when Lin Qingyang thought the situation of onlookers was finally over, a scream suddenly came from the doorway.
“Ah! A ghost!”
The scream sounded so genuine; it was daylight, where could a ghost come from?
Lin Qingyang turned to look and saw Ying Xiaodie almost sitting on the ground, looking at him in terror.
Lin Qingyang looked around, making sure Ying Xiaodie was indeed looking at him. “Is my face really that terrible now? Like a ghost?”
Xu Wenze shook his head.
Chu Lishu said coldly, “She’s the one with a guilty conscience.”
Lin Qingyang looked puzzled.
However, soon Ying Xiaodie was pulled up by other girls in a fluster, and they hurriedly took her to their seats.
Consider it a little episode.
When the literary class ended and everyone was about to disperse, Chu Lishu still seemed uninterested in dealing with Lin Qingyang. He stood up to leave, but Lin Qingyang quickly grabbed him. “Cousin, I was wrong.”
By now, most people had left. Xu Wenze had initially intended to join them, but seeing their situation, he could only shake his head and smile gently. “I’ll go to the dining hall first.” After saying that, he left.
Now, only the two of them remained in Bamboo Garden.
Chu Lishu directly scolded him with a cold face. “Cousin, you really have some skill. Were you intentionally avoiding my questions before? I don’t believe the physician can let you walk with your current condition.”
Lin Qingyang looked awkwardly at Chu Lishu. “Look at you. When Cheng Yi targeted me just now, you spoke up for me. You didn’t scold me before, and I’ve already apologized. Why are you suddenly so angry? Can we put this matter behind us?”
Chu Lishu became even more infuriated upon hearing this. “I didn’t scold… a relative in public. I was trying to save you some face.”
“Don’t be angry. I know you’re worried about me. You even arranged a wheelchair for me. Thank you.” Lin Qingyang quickly tried to appease him.
“Are you telling me you want to risk tearing your wound by climbing those stone steps? Do you even know the condition of your own body?” Chu Lishu still spoke without much patience.
Lin Qingyang felt guilty and said, “I… I’m really fine.”
“Fine? Didn’t your wound just split open yesterday?” Chu Lishu questioned.
Lin Qingyang was suddenly surprised. “How do you know?”
Chuli Book paused. In fact, he had arranged for Lu Yi and Lu Shi to pay attention to Lin Qingyang’s situation when they went out on a mission. Lu Yi, who came back this morning to report on the mission, mentioned Lin Qingyang’s condition these days. Hearing that he insisted on coming, Chu Lishu was both angry and helpless.
He naturally knew why Lin Qingyang insisted on coming. At that time, he couldn’t stop him and could only make arrangements accordingly. If the situation had allowed, he really wanted to lock Lin Qingyang in the room, tied to the bed, until his body fully recovered before letting him go out.
“I can find out if I want to know.” Chu Lishu perfunctorily said, “So don’t always try to deceive me.”
“Absolutely, absolutely. My wound is healing well now. As long as I’m careful, it’ll be fine. I really have a sense of propriety. I don’t want to make it worse and leave behind any sequelae in the future. Hehehe…” After asking, Lin Qingyang also realized that with Lu Yi and Lu Shi helping him, it would be easy for Chu Lishu to find out what he wanted to know. It seemed that he had to be more careful in the future.
Chu Lishu really couldn’t stay mad at Lin Qingyang for too long in such matters, after all, Lin Qingyang’s intentions made him not too angry. He could only endure it. Seeing Lin Qingyang’s cautious and apologetic face, Chu Lishu sighed silently. “Let’s go. You can’t eat the food in the restaurant now. Go directly back to the courtyard.”
“Sure, my meals will be prepared by Shuncai. I’ll have him bring a portion to you from the dining hall. How about we go back to my courtyard and eat together?”
Chu Lishu glanced at him, not refusing. However, it had only been three days since they last met, and things had turned out like this… sigh.
Lin Qingyang felt reassured when Chu Lishu reached out to support him. Now, his points wouldn’t drop anymore.
As the two walked slowly back, Lin Qingyang finally remembered the strange incident of the day.
“By the way, why did you say that Ying Xiaodie has a guilty conscience? What did she do when I wasn’t around?” Lin Qingyang asked curiously.
“She… she’s the one who ordered the assassination on you,” Chu Lishu suddenly said, causing Lin Qingyang to freeze in his tracks.
“Her?!” It’s not that Lin Qingyang didn’t believe Chu Lishu, but he found it unbelievable. This was a person he couldn’t have imagined. Although the two had some conflicts, Lin Qingyang thought Ying Xiaodie would only resort to small tricks. Murder? She dared to go that far?
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Okay i love this novel a lot im literally hooked like it’s a drug, but also….why are almost all the villains, women 😭 author whyyy