Chapter 131

Nianxi was greatly envied by many noble ladies in the capital in her previous life, primarily because Pei Jian was known for his unwavering integrity. At that time, countless women sought to align themselves with Minister Pei. Now, however, a mere courtesan like Qing Rong dared to use her charms to captivate the man before her. How delusional.

Even as she knelt before him, Pei Jian’s expression remained completely indifferent.

The night had grown late, and the entertainment establishments had quieted down. The guests mostly finished their drinks, prepared to return home, or indulged in other pleasures, each going their separate ways.

Pei Jian, tired from days of work, was already weary. He disliked such occasions, finding the overpowering fragrances of the women headache-inducing. However, official banquets often included such situations.

Ever shrewd and pragmatic, Han Lin immediately noticed Qing Rong’s failed attempt and Pei Jian’s intent to leave. He quickly stepped forward with a smile, saying, “This courtesan is quite insensible—don’t let her ruin your enjoyment, my lord.”

Turning to Qing Rong, he continued impatiently, “Why aren’t you leaving already?”

At that moment, Qing Rong seemed to lose her reason. She tilted her head, gazing longingly at the man before her. His long, thick eyelashes curled slightly at the ends, and with every blink, they cast shadows on his eyelids.

They say men with long eyelashes are unfeeling, but Pei Jian possessed a pair of beautiful almond-shaped eyes that naturally conveyed deep emotion when looking at someone. Yet, upon closer inspection, a subtle coldness and detachment could be found, making it hard not to fall for him.

In the world of romance, nothing was more taboo than bringing emotions into play.

At this moment, Qing Rong couldn’t care less about such rules—she only wished to grasp the hem of his robe and pour out all the affection in her heart.

However, it was ultimately impossible. He pushed her hand away, using only the jade flute on the low table.

Qing Rong’s face turned pale. She finally understood that this Pei gentleman despised her purity so much that he wouldn’t even allow her near him.

Stunned by the courtesan’s audacity, Han Lin quickly grabbed her arm to pull her away. Afraid of offending Pei Jian, he immediately apologized, saying, “This courtesan doesn’t please you, my lord. I’ll find someone more sensible for you another day.”

Pei Jian glanced briefly at the collapsed Qing Rong on the ground and said calmly to Han Lin, ‘No need, I already have someone in my heart.’

He was already aware of Xu Wanxin’s malicious intentions—perhaps even in his past life, she had disgusted Nianxi with her ambiguous and manipulative words. He could only blame himself for being deaf and blind back then, completely oblivious.

But today, he wanted no more misunderstandings. Whether it was with Xu Wanxin or any other woman, he no longer wanted to give anyone the slightest chance for speculation or opportunity.

Han Lin could never have imagined hearing such words from the mouth of this cold-faced statesman. Judging by his usual decisive and ruthless demeanor, he did not seem like someone capable of deep affection. Yet, looking at him now, he appeared as if he intended to preserve his virtue for the one in his heart.

Han Lin, being shrewd and insightful, was baffled by the idea of a ‘man being deeply in love,’ but it didn’t stop him from playing along:

“For someone to be cherished by Minister Pei, she must certainly be a lady of noble birth.”

The private room grew quieter, and the laughter softened. Those present to accompany the group were evidently intrigued by Pei Jian’s beloved and wanted to uncover her identity.

Among those present, only Qin Lang knew the truth.

Qing Rong refused to leave, wanting to hear more about the extraordinary woman who could hold such a reserved and dignified man’s heart and be openly acknowledged by him.

“I only hope to be fortunate enough to gain her favor,” Pei Jian’s peach-blossom eyes lifted slightly, his expression carrying a touch of gentleness. “Naturally, one must cherish and reflect upon oneself to be worthy of her.”

These words were spoken humbly, placing the lady on an exalted pedestal.

The dynasty’s youngest and most influential minister, not to mention his graceful and refined demeanor, expressing that he “hopes to gain her favor”…

It must be a profound and heartfelt sentiment.

Yet, he did not reveal who she was.

Today, Qing Rong had already decided to lay everything bare, even at the cost of her life, bowing her head again in supplication. “I beg my lord to disclose the name of the virtuous lady.”

Everyone in the elegant chamber was curious about “her” identity and instinctively turned their gaze to Pei Jian upon hearing this.

Pei Jian lowered his head, sitting upright and sipping his tea. His long lashes cast shadows over his eyes, unaffected by the flickering candlelight under the gauzy curtain. He remained silent, not even glancing at Qing Rong, who was prostrate on the ground, like snow on a mountaintop—aloof and unattainable.

In such a lowly setting, even mentioning her name would be a form of desecration.

Han Lin dared not give Qing Rong a chance to keep entangling the matter, hastily instructing others to drag her away.

After the others had left, Han Lin wiped the sweat off his brow. He was truly puzzled by Pei Jian’s intentions. It was clear that Pei himself had brought up the idea of his “beloved,” yet he forbade anyone else to inquire about it. Was he trying to let people know or not?

“My lord, please forgive me. This was my poor arrangement.” At this moment, Han Lin could only dryly offer a few polite words to ease the situation.

Pei Jian’s obsidian-like eyes were deep and serene. “Thank you for your kind intentions. But in the capital, people always love to spread baseless rumors about such matters. I have suffered greatly from this, so I must uphold my integrity even more.”

Han Lin, who initially didn’t understand, gradually caught on.

It was likely that this “beloved” of his was particularly prone to jealousy and highly possessive. Previously, rumors about Pei Jian having romantic ties with other young ladies had already displeased her.

As for Pei Jian, he remained solitary, busy with documents all day, never showing any leniency or warmth—what romantic entanglements could he possibly have?

Thinking further, wasn’t Minister Xu of the Ministry of War’s only daughter infatuated with Pei Jian for years?

At the start of the year, even the Grand Princess had considered marrying her eldest son, Gaojie, to Miss Xu, but the young lady flatly rejected the proposal.

Understanding the implications, Han Lin could barely suppress his amusement—

No matter how decisive and formidable Pei Jian might be on the court, he was ultimately a man inexperienced with women, who could devote all his longing and passion to just one.

Unlike him—were it not for the Grand Princess’s strict oversight, he could have ensured every woman had a place to call home.

“My lord’s devotion to one person is truly admirable. Rest assured, with Han here, your spotless reputation will remain intact!”

He was asking for a favor, his small eyes darting around quickly, and he couldn’t help but presumptuously add, “Those Miss Liu or Miss Xu, none of them have anything to do with you, my lord.”

Pei Jian’s demeanor became increasingly gentle. “You’re much older than I am; you may call me Shizhang.”

Qin Lang, sitting beside him, was utterly astonished.

Those vague, cloud-like words of Pei Shizhang—if not for knowing the truth himself—would have been entirely indecipherable. This Marquis of Anjing really knew how to read people’s minds. No wonder this nominal marquis, unremarkable in appearance, had managed to marry a princess. He truly had some skills.

When the banquet ended and Han Lin had seen off his colleagues, he finally turned back, affectionately addressing him, “Shizhang.”

Clearly, he had something to say.

Pei Jian complied graciously, sending away all the attendants and leaving only Qin Lang behind. The three of them returned to their seats. “Please speak,” Pei Jian said.

Han Lin’s attentiveness throughout the evening had led up to this moment. He turned back to his seat, glanced at Qin Lang, then shifted forward slightly.

“My lord, may I ask how the investigation into the Lianghuai salt permits case is progressing? Admittedly, such a confidential matter should not be my concern. However, I have a distant nephew who is a salt merchant in Anfeng. I’ve heard he might be implicated in this matter, so I wanted to inquire—for familial reasons, of course.”

The salt tax brought immense profits, and this case implicated numerous influential figures and officials in the capital. Han Lin’s involvement, however, was minimal.

This investigation and enforcement primarily targeted court officials. Even King Jing had not been implicated. Thus, Han Lin’s concern was largely unnecessary.

“Corruption in the salt permits has angered His Majesty. I believe Marquis Anjing is aware of the gravity of the situation.” Pei Jian’s sharp, dark eyes were calm and introspective. “With tensions high at the border, yet corruption amounting to tens of millions of taels uncovered in Lianghuai, His Majesty has ordered a thorough and decisive investigation. No one will be spared.”

Han Lin wiped the sweat from his forehead, stammering out an agreement. He moved his lips, intending to say more, when Pei Jian shifted the tone of the conversation, “However, since you have brought this up, there may be room for leniency.”

Han Lin immediately looked overjoyed, thanking him profusely.

“However, this is a sensitive matter, so it’s best not to publicize it,” Pei Jian said as he stood up, tying the fastener on his cloak. “It remains a private matter between you and me.”

Pei Jian naturally knew why Han Lin had sought him out today.

Han Lin, known for his social savvy among the noble circles, had done this to send a signal.

Hearing this, Han Lin’s face lit up with delight, and he repeatedly voiced his agreement. He personally saw Pei Jian off to his carriage and only felt at ease once the carriage had disappeared into the distance.

During the autumn hunting grounds, Han Lin had already realized that this man was no ordinary figure.

In just a short period, through the Lianghuai corruption case, Pei Jian had essentially grasped control over the lifeblood of the elite class. Nobody’s hands were clean—it all depended on whether he was willing to show leniency.

From what Han Lin knew, at least King Jing had not received even the slightest favor from him.