Chapter 77: Preparations and Promises
Dawn broke over Qinghe Town with a pale wash of light, painting the tiled rooftops silver. The small courtyard outside Su Yanyue's home was filled with the soft clatter of morning chores. She moved briskly, braiding her hair with practiced hands, her heart thundering at the thought of the marquis's invitation.
Inside, the triplets sat cross-legged on the floor, staring at her with wide, anxious eyes.
"Mama… will you be gone all day?" Su Rui asked, lower lip trembling just a little.
Su Yanyue paused, leaning down to smooth his messy hair. "I'll come back before the sun sets, I promise."
"But what if those rich people are mean?" Su Lin demanded, tiny fists clenched.
Su Zhi stood and pulled something from behind his back—a wooden whistle shaped like a phoenix. "Take this, Mama. Blow it if you're in danger, and we'll come save you."
Yanyue's eyes prickled with tears at his serious little face. She accepted the whistle reverently, tucking it into her sash. "Thank you, my brave boys."
A throat cleared quietly behind her. Yu Shiming stepped forward, already dressed in clean robes, sword belted at his waist. His dark eyes held a rare softness as he looked at her.
"I'll go with you," he said. "You shouldn't meet people like this alone."
Yanyue hesitated. "But your injury—"
"It's mostly healed," he interrupted. His gaze grew intense. "And I swore I would protect you."
Their eyes met, unspoken words crackling in the morning air. In that silent exchange, something shifted—an understanding deeper than words. She nodded at last.
They gathered the triplets together, instructing them firmly to stay home and help Auntie Hua with chores. The boys pouted but finally agreed, after Su Yanyue promised them extra sweet buns when she returned.
As she and Yu Shiming stepped out of the courtyard, the triplets lined up by the gate, waving wildly.
"Good luck, Mama!"
"Show them who's boss!"
"Don't forget the whistle!"
Yanyue smiled at them until they were out of sight, then squared her shoulders. The path to town felt longer than ever that morning, the cool air sharpening every step.
Beside her, Yu Shiming walked silently but confidently, his tall frame a comforting presence. When the town's gates appeared ahead, he slowed, turning his head slightly.
"Are you afraid?" he asked, voice low.
"I am," she admitted softly, surprised by her own honesty.
He reached over, callused fingers brushing hers for a heartbeat before he let them fall. "Fear means you know what's at stake. That's strength, not weakness."
They entered Qinghe Town just as shops were opening, villagers sweeping their doorways and calling greetings. A pair of women paused to admire Yanyue's elegant posture, whispering about the beauty with the tall, mysterious man beside her.
As they neared the bustling heart of town, Yu Shiming suddenly stopped. He tilted her chin up gently, eyes boring into hers. "Whatever happens today, remember: your worth doesn't depend on anyone's approval."
She swallowed hard, breath catching at his words. "Thank you," she whispered.
He released her, and they continued walking—side by side, heads high, ready for whatever challenges lay behind the marquis's gilded doors.