Married to a Villainous Minister - Chapter 64

Yu Qizhe’s hand, hanging at his side, clenched slightly. He lifted his gaze to Yu Jiao’s smiling face, and in that moment, the words he had just begun to say, left unfinished, suddenly felt like a cruel joke.

The light in his long, peach blossom eyes dimmed slowly, replaced by a faint, nearly imperceptible cold edge. The memory of her telling Yu Zhizhou to marry her that night echoed in his ears. Staring at Yu Jiao, he asked in a low voice, “Is that funny to you?”

Yu Jiao was caught completely off guard. She had no idea why he suddenly turned cold. Her smile froze and faded. In a soft voice, she said, “It’s not funny. I won’t laugh anymore, okay? Don’t be upset.”

Her gentle tone made Yu Qizhe slowly release the fist he had tightened in his sleeve. His expression softened slightly, but the playful, tender atmosphere that had just begun to form between them had vanished without a trace.

Yu Jiao felt a little guilty. She inwardly scolded herself for getting carried away, for forgetting what the original “her” had done, and for foolishly teasing someone like Yu Qizhe, so rigid and proper, a man raised under a feudal dynasty’s ideals. The two of them walked toward the main hall in silence, without another word exchanged.

A breeze passed through the courtyard. Though it was summer, Yu Jiao felt a sudden chill.

Inside the hall, Yu Ruhai greeted them cheerfully. He grabbed Yu Qizhe’s hand and said with warmth, “This is my fifth grandson.” Then, turning to Yu Qizhe, he added, “Come quickly and greet Master Mu.”

Yu Qizhe shifted slightly, smoothly withdrawing his hand from Yu Ruhai’s grip without making a fuss. He stepped forward, gave Mu Yan a small, respectful bow, and said evenly, “Greetings, Master Mu.”

Mu Yan rose with a smile. He’d heard of this young man, who had once swept the provincial exams and made a name for himself in Changkui County. Though now clearly pale and frail, Yu Qizhe still had strikingly handsome features. Were it not for his sickly appearance, he’d be the very image of a proud, refined young scholar.

“No need to be so formal. Three years ago, the name of Yu Wulang was already well known in Changkui,” Mu Yan said with admiration. “It’s a pity I was still in Qingzhou at the time and never had the chance to meet you. Now that I finally have, you certainly live up to your reputation.”

The Mu family had ties to government officials and placed great importance on scholarly success. Mu Yan himself was no exception. He had a genuine appreciation for someone like Yu Qizhe, who had won top honors through his own ability.

Unlike the rest of the Yu family, who were nervous and eager to please, Yu Qizhe remained calm and composed in the face of praise. “My reputation far exceeds my actual worth. Master Mu flatters me,” he said quietly.

Mu Yan grew even fonder of him upon seeing his modest and composed demeanor. “No need to be so humble, Fifth Young Master. Have you kept up with your studies during your recovery these past few years?”

Yu Qizhe lowered his eyes and replied evenly, “Due to my weak health, I’ve only read occasionally.”

Mu Yan had already heard from Mu Nianjiu about Yu Qizhe’s poor health, which explained why he had never taken another exam after his early success. With a gentle tone, he said, “Studying is important, but your health must come first.” 

“With your talent, once you recover, you’ll surely achieve great things again. If you ever plan to take the exam in Qingzhou, let me know. The Mu family will be sure to offer you some support.”

The moment those words left his mouth, everyone in the room reacted differently. Madam Zhao clenched her teeth in jealousy. According to Yu Jinshu, the Mu family had connections with the governor of Qingzhou. With their help, it might even be possible to stand out in front of the examiners, a rare and priceless opportunity.

Yu Jinshu had gone to great lengths to befriend Mu Nianjiu precisely in hopes of gaining the Mu family’s favor. Who would’ve thought that this sickly boy from the second branch would strike gold so easily, gaining the personal promise of Mu Yan himself?

Yu Ruhai beamed with delight. “Master Mu, your kindness overwhelms us. Let me thank you on behalf of my fifth grandson!”

But Yu Qizhe’s face showed no trace of joy. His expression remained calm and unshaken, which only made Mu Yan admire him more. Though the other sons of the Yu family came from the same background, none could compare to this frail Fifth Young Master’s quiet steadiness.

With a smile, Mu Yan said, “You’re still recovering. Go get some rest.”