Chapter 6

Chapter 6

After saying my piece, I coaxed my reluctant younger brother away.

I took a deep breath and pushed open the half-closed door.

The room was so quiet that I assumed Cui Shao was already asleep. To my surprise, when I pulled back the bed curtains, I was met with a pair of cool, indifferent eyes.

“You’re still awake… I mean, did you hear what was just said?”

Although I had only spoken that way to counter Cui Zishu, I had still technically badmouthed the Cui Family. Facing Cui Shao now, I felt a twinge of guilt.

It felt like I’d been caught red-handed doing something naughty.

Cui Shao lay on his side, his expression unreadable as he sized me up. “You certainly have a sharp tongue.”

The Chen Family was never short of people who spoke with sarcasm and hidden barbs; I had long since learned to take such comments as compliments.

“Thank you for the praise, Husband!”

A flicker of emotion crossed Cui Shao’s eyes, but his voice remained steady. “Your attempt at a show of authority was a bit clumsy.”

“You noticed? I’ve usually only watched others do it. It’s my first time, so it’s bound to be a little rough. I’ll get better with practice. Honestly, I was quite nervous-my heart is still thumping!”

I poured a cup of water and downed it in one go, finally soothing my parched throat.

“That’s my cup.”

“What’s yours is mine; there’s no need to be so formal.”

I was still holding my bundle of belongings, but I was exhausted. I set it on the table and began to undress for bed.

Cui Shao frowned and discreetly averted his gaze.

“Go sleep in another room. We…”

I knew what he wanted to say, but I didn’t want to hear it.

“And where would I go? To Zishu’s room? You heard her; she doesn’t exactly like me. I certainly can’t stay with Qingshan, as he’s looking after my brother. That leaves your room, unless you want me to freeze to death?”

As expected, Cui Shao fell silent, though his clenched fists betrayed his emotions.

I shook my head. Ten years had passed, and he was still as reserved and restrained as ever-so restrained he hardly seemed like a living, breathing person.

Sighing, I pulled back the silk quilt. Cui Shao hadn’t expected me to be so forward, and a flush of heat finally appeared on that usually calm, expressionless face.

Beneath the quilt, he was bare-chested.