Reborn: The First Rank "Madam"

C65 – Sentimental!

After changing into a fresh set of clothing, Zuo Shaoqing could finally relax a bit. He ran his hand over the silk robe he was wearing. Though not extravagant, it was quite thick and had an elegant simplicity.

Lu Zheng draped a scarlet red cloak over his shoulders, fastened the ties, and remarked, “I’m quite skinny, hardly an ounce of meat on me. It’s like touching a skeleton. I should consider putting on some weight.”

Zuo Shaoqing adjusted the obviously oversized cloak and made up his mind that from the next day onward, his meals would include plenty of meat.

“It’s a bit short, just a tad longer,” Lu Zheng commented, ruffling his hair.

Zuo Shaoqing took a deep breath, “I’m only 14 this year!” He was at that stage of life where growth was inevitable, and he would surely grow taller in the future! Even if he ended up only reaching Lu Zheng’s chin, that should meet Master Lu’s expectations, right?

Lu Zheng arched an eyebrow but didn’t say anything. He tossed a dry cloth at Zuo Shaoqing and instructed, “Dry your hair properly. With your delicate constitution, you should be careful not to catch a cold.”

It was only when Lu Zheng had embraced the person in front of him that he realized just how slender this individual was, and how soft and tender their skin felt even before he touched it. Every movement had to be cautious, as he feared applying too much pressure might break the person’s skin.

If that happened, it would require a period of careful healing before they could proceed with their marriage.

Zuo Shaoqing felt a bit discontented. His physique had undergone significant changes after months of hard work. Most hooligans were no match for him now. How could he be as weak as Lu Zheng claimed?

Little did he know that Lu Zheng intended to plump him up before taking their relationship to the next level, which would have been far from his thoughts.

Zuo Shaoqing was still concerned about Master Luqiang’s emotional resilience. He could sense the desire from the other party, yet it had quickly subsided and returned to normal.

Was it because his own allure wasn’t strong enough, or was Master Lu’s self-control simply exceptional? Based on Zuo Shaoqing’s understanding of men, Lu Zheng’s demeanor didn’t align with typical male behavior.

This realization greatly surprised Zuo Shaoqing. The elation he felt from successfully seducing Lu Zheng was instantly overshadowed.

He shot a sidelong glance at Lu Zheng’s composed expression and clenched his teeth. He refused to believe that this man could always maintain such restraint. He was determined to make him surrender completely.

Unaware that Zuo Shaoqing had misunderstood his momentary lapse of resolve as an unappetizing dish, Lu Zheng would come to appreciate the passion hidden within this seemingly delicate frame for a long time to come.

Observing Zuo Shaoqing’s furrowed brow due to his long hair, which was initially soft and jet-black, now tousled in all directions, Lu Zheng had no choice but to remove his own cloth, using his inner energy to gently dry and style the long locks.

Zuo Shaoqing watched in astonishment. In his two lifetimes, this was the first time he had seen inner energy used in such a manner. Previously, he had only known it could be used to boil water.

It seemed that even without Lu Zheng, he would have to diligently train and acquire such abilities. With this skill, life was about to get much more interesting.

Lu Zheng combed the long, dry hair straight with his fingers, securing a few strands with a white jade hairpin to form a bun. “There we go,” he said, stepping back to admire his handiwork with satisfaction.

Zuo Shaoqing lowered his head, his heart pounding harder than ever before, even more so than when he was in love. His face slowly turned a deep shade of red.

He never expected Lu Zheng to possess such a tender side. How could this man keep teasing him?

He raised his head and expressed his gratitude. Then, he gently touched the jade hairpin and inquired curiously, “May I ask about this?”

“I selected it from the gifts provided by the Cao Sect.”

Zuo Shaoqing’s lips twitched slightly. Could it be that the Cao Sect had discovered Master Lu’s unique taste? Why else would they gift a man a hairpin instead of the usual women’s hair accessories?

It was no wonder that such an exceptional young man had emerged. But when had Master Lu’s unconventional preferences become public knowledge?

In reality, Zuo Shaoqing’s assumption was off the mark. The members of the Cao Sect weren’t aware of Master Lu’s true nature; they had sent numerous attractive women, but none had been permitted into Master Lu’s residence. Eventually, they had a change of heart and went to great lengths to find a handsome male servant. Little did they expect to be rejected once again.

After this incident, no one dared to send anyone to Master Lu’s bedchamber.

The man, with a slightly sour mood, pondered to himself, “Has Master Lu not yet realized this?” Or did he look down on those sent by these mundane folks?

Even if he was simply a fledgling, he should have displayed some reaction when encountering a beautiful woman with alluring curves. If not that, he should have cast more than a few glances at this exceptionally handsome young man.

Pondering it this way, certain aspects of Master Lu’s discernment came into question. Could it be that he had suffered a secret injury during his time on the battlefield?

Suddenly, Lu Zheng’s image grew taller and more impressive in the eyes of the men. They no longer felt any embarrassment but rather admired Master Lu’s unwavering determination even more.

“Is it Master Lu’s turn to be a little late?” Zuo Shaoqing suggested with enthusiasm.

Though he had never tied hair before, he believed it should be quite straightforward.

When Lu Zheng sat in front of him, presenting the back of his head to Zuo Shaoqing, the latter found himself in a quandary.

He wasn’t sure how to proceed with Master Lu’s thick and coarse hair. His attempts to fashion a bun resulted in a disheveled mess.

Lu Zheng, growing impatient, turned his head and bestowed Zuo Shaoqing with a somewhat sardonic smile. He expertly crafted a bun and secured his jade crown, quickly tidying his long locks.

Zuo Shaoqing was impressed by his dexterity. Simultaneously, he noticed that Lu Zheng’s attire had some subtle differences this time around. After a moment of contemplation, he understood.

“But…” Master Lu had just turned twenty this year, right? If he recalled correctly, it should be nineteen.

Lu Zheng regarded him playfully. “I’ve already entered adulthood even before reaching twenty. Who would dare say that I’m acting prematurely?”

Zuo Shaoqing was left speechless. There were numerous officials in the imperial court who were hardly considered prudent. Who would be concerned about the way they dressed in robes or hats?

Even a battle-hardened veteran like Lu Zheng, who had achieved great feats, feared that no one would regard him as insignificant.

“It’s getting late; let’s grab a meal!”

Zuo Shaoqing glanced at the sky outside and confirmed that it was dinner time. He hadn’t anticipated spending so long in the room with Lu Zheng.

Seeing Lu Zheng turn and depart, Zuo Shaoqing had grown accustomed to Lu Zheng’s swift and decisive manner, so he quickly trailed after him.

The last rays of the setting sun cast a warm glow upon the tall, imposing figure ahead, reminiscent of a sturdy tree that could bring comfort.

Zuo Shaoqing felt a pang in his heart. He had believed that, as a person with two lifetimes, there was little that could stir his emotions. His actions were usually dictated by utility.

Take Lu Zheng, for instance. First, he was Duke Zhen, then a devoted and handsome man, and Zuo Shaoqing had initially thought he should pursue and possess this man.

However, now he realized that even if Lu Zheng were to lose everything one day, as long as he remained by Zuo Shaoqing’s side, offering his support, Zuo Shaoqing wouldn’t let go.

What he desired was not only power but also the warmth and peace of mind that Lu Zheng provided.

Lost in thought, Zuo Shaoqing sniffled while gazing at Lu Zheng’s retreating figure. Unaware that the man in front of him had suddenly turned around.

He came to a sudden halt, raising his head to meet the face veiled by the interplay of light and shadow. A joyful smile graced his lips.

Lu Zheng furrowed his brows. “Why the mixed emotions? Why are you laughing and crying?”

Did he cry? Zuo Shaoqing touched his cheek in a daze, discovering the cold moisture. He blinked, a bit confused. Why was he crying? What was the reason for his tears?

When was the last time he had shed tears? How many years had it been since he entered the Jiang’s Mansion?

He could still recall that upon realizing his fate was merely to serve as a stepping stone for Zuo Shaoyan, he had cried, pleaded, and caused disturbances. Yet, all of it had ended in failure.

Ultimately, his tears hadn’t softened the man’s heart. It wasn’t until his cultivation skyrocketed due to Qi deviation from consuming random drugs that he was able to leave the secluded courtyard.

It seemed that from the second year onward, regardless of how much sorrow he felt, he couldn’t shed a single tear. He had learned to endure, no matter how much he loathed or hurt, he remained tearless.

Yet, here he was, crying because of a small emotional moment. It felt truly… vulnerable!

A shadow descended, and before Zuo Shaoqing could react, Lu Zheng did something inexplicable.

His lips brushed against the moist corners of Zuo Shaoqing’s eyes, and Lu Zheng licked them with his tongue. In a salty manner, he reached out to wipe away the tears on Zuo Shaoqing’s face, his expression cold as he inquired, “Why are you crying?”

Zuo Shaoqing blushed. A man in his twenties crying over something so trivial was even more embarrassing than their earlier encounter in the room. He replied in a low voice, “No reason, just feeling happy.”

“Happy?” Lu Zheng was initially puzzled, but then he had a realization, and his eyes softened. He extended his hand toward Zuo Shaoqing. “Come on, let’s go. Scholars are known for their sentimentality and compassion!”

Zuo Shaoqing didn’t hesitate to place his hand in Lu Zheng’s. One large, one small, their hands intertwined, the contrast between rough and delicate making for a harmonious union.

Even without any promises exchanged, Zuo Shaoqing understood that this man would be with him for the rest of his life. Lu Zheng’s warmth and domineering presence were meant for him alone!

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