Chapter 68

Shen Wei held a twelve-ribbed black lacquered gold umbrella. The rainwater cascaded down the umbrella’s surface. Through the veil of rain, she tilted her head slightly upward to look at the familiar face before her. Then, under his smiling gaze, she slowly said, “I’m sorry, Young Master Liang.”

When Liang Lingyue invited her here yesterday, she had hesitated and wavered…

Even today at the Shen residence, throughout the journey to Xishan Temple, and even the moment she saw Liang Lingyue, her heart remained unsettled… She didn’t know what her own feelings or thoughts were.

But just now, when Liang Lingyue spoke those words, Shen Wei thought she would be moved. After all, Liang Lingyue was indeed an exceptional person. Even without his handsome face, his charm and carefree nature would still have attracted her… Yet, she found herself completely unmoved.

Her feelings were calm, so calm that there wasn’t even the slightest ripple. She was grateful for his words and for his affection.

But she indeed…

Did not love him.

With this realization, Shen Wei’s previously confused eyes became clear, and the hesitation in her heart began to ease.

She slightly loosened her grip on the umbrella handle. The rain outside was still heavy but had lessened compared to earlier. The thunder and lightning had subsided, and the dark clouds in the sky were slowly dispersing, revealing the original white sky.

She continued to look up at Liang Lingyue and said, “I am very grateful for your words, Young Master Liang, and I am glad to have your favor. But I’m sorry, I cannot accept your kind intentions.”

Liang Lingyue had not expected Shen Wei to reject his feelings so straightforwardly and decisively. Having traveled the martial world for so many years, he had encountered countless people and received the affection of many women. Among them were respectable young ladies from noble families and elegant courtesans from pleasure quarters, even some prominent families had proposed matches with him.

Yet, he had never imagined—

That the first time he confessed his feelings to someone, he would be rejected so directly and bluntly.

Such a rejection would cause resentment in most men, but Liang Lingyue was different. After a moment of surprise, a smile returned to his face. He looked down at Shen Wei with a gentle gaze, seeing her face regain its calmness. He knew that her words were sincere and free of any other concerns.

She did not reject him because of his reputation, or because she had been married, or any other reason.

She rejected him simply because she did not love him. This realization gave him a mixed feeling he couldn’t quite describe.

With this thought, Liang Lingyue spoke, his gaze fixed on Shen Wei, “Madam, you really do not leave any room for sentiment…” As he spoke, he slightly raised the corners of his lips, his eyes filled with a wry smile, “This is the first time I’ve ever said such things to anyone.”

He paused for a moment before continuing, “Fortunately, it’s just the two of us here today. Otherwise, I fear I’d never be able to show my face in the martial world again.”

After saying this, he shook his head, looking truly helpless.

Shen Wei had been watching Liang Lingyue and knew he was not truly offended. Hearing him speak, she also began to laugh.

Since arriving in this strange world, Shen Wei had rarely smiled. Confined to the inner chambers, she had to hide her true feelings to avoid suspicion. Moreover, there was little in this world to make her truly happy. Except when she was with Huo Feiguang, she felt she could never be completely at ease. Her past months had been filled with repression… But now, facing Liang Lingyue, she smiled sincerely.

The rain outside seemed to lighten further, and the sky revealed more of its original white hue.

Shen Wei looked at Liang Lingyue and said gently, “Young Master Liang is very carefree. I think all my hesitation and doubt would only be a desecration of your affection.”

His feelings were too beautiful, and because of that, she did not want to desecrate them.

Since she was certain of her own heart from the beginning, there was no need to make him wait in vain. Besides, she believed that with Liang Lingyue’s character, he wouldn’t hold a grudge against her for speaking so plainly.

Hearing her words, Liang Lingyue paused for a moment, his gaze unwavering as he looked at Shen Wei. Then he chuckled, a laugh that started low but gradually became hearty and carefree, even lifting his voice slightly.

If at first he was simply drawn to Shen Wei’s uniqueness.

Then Shen Wei’s previous words had indeed touched his heart. In all his years in this world, he had never encountered such a woman, one who faced others’ feelings with such candor, accepting them straightforwardly and refusing them without beating around the bush.

She rejected him not for any other reason but because she did not wish to desecrate his feelings.

Even without the previous explanation, Liang Lingyue would not have minded. He was Liang Lingyue, the Liang Lingyue who roamed the martial world, braving wind and rain without being affected. Although being rejected by Shen Wei was a pity, it wasn’t the end of the world. He had already considered the worst outcome, and today’s meeting with Shen Wei was merely to avoid any future regrets.

But now, hearing such words, he had to admit that the woman before him made his heart beat faster.

Liang Lingyue’s fingers tightened slightly around the jade flute, and his gaze towards Shen Wei became more focused and gentle. He looked at her and said softly, “You are different from others, different from any woman in this world.” Perhaps it was this difference that deeply attracted him, making him restless.

What a pity…

It wasn’t that it was a pity for the first time he confessed his feelings to someone and got rejected, but a pity that the one who rejected him was Shen Wei. This woman was so interesting and delightful; each interaction seemed to make him understand her a bit more, and the more he understood her, the harder it was to forget her.

She had a unique aura, or rather, her soul was unlike anyone else’s.

If he could spend time with such a woman, he imagined the rest of his life would be very enjoyable and free…what a pity.

This was the second time Liang Lingyue felt regret today, but aside from this regret, he was also somewhat happy…happy that his feelings were not trampled on.

Even though she rejected him, she returned his sincerity with her own.

Thinking of this, the smile on Liang Lingyue’s face deepened.

The wind and rain gradually subsided, and the sky became clear. The plum forest became quiet without the sound of wind and rain. It didn’t take long for the birds, which had taken refuge elsewhere, to return. Some flew across the sky, creating faint silhouettes, while others perched on the branches, chirping softly.

Liang Lingyue put away his umbrella and then looked at Shen Wei, smiling again, “If we had wine now, I would definitely drink with you until we were both drunk.”

This was the first time he had such a desire to drink, and it was with a woman, not for any other reason, but for her words… Unfortunately, at this moment, even if there was wine, it wouldn’t be good wine.

Thinking of this, he smiled again, “After today, it might be difficult to see you again. If there is a chance in the future, I would like to take you to a villa… It is situated by the mountains and water, with a spring-like climate all year round. I think you would definitely like it.” In his heart, he felt that the space in Bianliang City was too narrow for her. Such a warm and picturesque place should not imprison her.

How strange—

Clearly, the woman before him was born and raised here, yet he always felt that this place was not suitable for her.

The intrigues, the wealth and power in this city were too deep and unfathomable. The woman before him was more suited to ride a small boat and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the world.

Thinking of this, Liang Lingyue said to Shen Wei again, “If you ever want to leave this place, just let me know. Even if you don’t accept my feelings, you saved my life… Besides, I truly consider you a friend.” This was his second proposal.

If the first time was just a casual remark.

Then this second time…

He was sincere.

If Shen Wei truly wanted to leave Bianliang in the future, he would spare no effort to help her.

Although Shen Wei did not agree to this, she did not reject it either. She thought that if she really had the chance, she would indeed like to see the villa by the mountains and water that Liang Lingyue mentioned…and other places as well.

She smiled lightly, then also put away her umbrella. Without the wind and rain, the person before her appeared less hazy. She smiled at him and said softly, “Thank you, Mr. Liang. If there is such an opportunity, I would definitely drink with you until we are both drunk.”

Liang Lingyue’s smile deepened upon hearing this.

The birds on the branches continued chirping, and Liang Lingyue walked out with Shen Wei. As they were leaving, he seemed to remember something and said, “Was the person you mentioned that day your beloved?”

After saying this, he noticed Shen Wei pausing and followed her gaze.

Seeing the slight daze on Shen Wei’s face, Liang Lingyue added quickly, “I was just asking casually, you don’t have to take it to heart.”

Shen Wei’s previous daze gradually faded upon hearing this. She turned to look at Liang Lingyue and then smiled, “There’s nothing to take to heart. I was just thinking about something earlier…” With that, Shen Wei resumed walking, not too fast, speaking as she walked, “He was indeed my beloved before.”

As she said this, her gaze remained ahead, her eyes filled with a gentle smile.

Over the years, she rarely thought of him, perhaps restraining herself from thinking of him, thus pouring all her energy into work. Only in the depths of night did she unconsciously wonder what he was doing now… She avoided all possible encounters with him, even refraining from attending any university reunions.

Back then, everyone thought they would always be together…

But unexpectedly, they broke up right after graduating from university.

In fact, the reason for their breakup wasn’t a big deal; they were both too proud back then, so proud that they never thought of turning back once they decided to part ways.

Shen Wei thought about it and a smile spread across her face. She tilted her head slightly upward to look at the sky. The post-rain sky looked even fresher than before. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and after exhaling the lingering breath in her chest, she opened her eyes again and smiled at Liang Lingyue, “I have to thank you, Young Master Liang.”

If it weren’t for Liang Lingyue’s confession, she might not have realized that she had already let go of him.

That person would always be an indispensable and even precious memory in her life. She would always remember him and their past feelings, but she would no longer be haunted by them.

For so many years, she had lived in the past, imprisoning herself in the cage of memories, unwilling to move forward.

But now, it was time to let go.

They were almost out of the plum forest, and Shen Wei could even see the figure standing under the corridor, dressed in blue. She stopped again, and without explaining the puzzled look on Liang Lingyue’s face, she smiled and said, “Young Master Liang, you will surely meet someone more suitable for you in the future. I also hope you will find sincere love.”

Likewise—

She hoped that person could let go of the past just like her.

Although Liang Lingyue didn’t understand the meaning behind Shen Wei’s earlier “thank you,” he didn’t ask further. Listening to her words, he smiled gently. Finding a perfect match was not easy, but he didn’t say much, only nodding with a smile, “That is my wish for you as well.”

Although he didn’t know what kind of man could win her heart, he did hope she could find someone truly suitable for her.

He said this with a smile, and as he saw the blue figure walking towards them, Liang Lingyue smiled and said, “Madam, please go back.”

Shen Wei also saw Shuibi’s figure. Without saying anything, she nodded with a smile to Liang Lingyue and then walked towards Shuibi. Seeing Shen Wei walking towards her, Shuibi quickened her steps. When she reached Shen Wei, she looked at her carefully and then glared fiercely at Liang Lingyue.

After doing this, she took the umbrella from Shen Wei’s hand and said, “Madam, let’s go back.”

This time, Shen Wei smiled and agreed.

She nodded to her and let Shuibi hold the umbrella and support her as they walked outside.

Probably because the rain had stopped—

The once quiet path was now filled with many monks, who were sweeping away the water and leaves blown down by the wind. Seeing Shen Wei coming, they all put down their tools and bowed with joined palms.

Shen Wei also bowed back.

Then she continued to let Shuibi support her as they walked outside.

Li Da had been waiting outside the temple for a long time. Seeing the two coming out, he finally breathed a sigh of relief. He quickly placed a footstool to the side and waited. Once Shuibi helped the madam into the carriage, he asked from outside, “Madam, shall we return now or?”

Shen Wei had just settled down with Shuibi’s help. Hearing this, she lifted the curtain and glanced outside.

The post-rain air was fresh. She held the curtain with one hand and looked out the window, then she lightly laughed and said, “To Sun Ji.”

Sun Ji was a place where she used to drink with Huo Feiguang. Just like Liang Lingyue wanted to drink, she also really wanted a drink today.

Li Da responded lightly. Nowadays, he couldn’t understand the madam’s actions. All he had to do was follow orders. Besides, although the madam’s actions were incomprehensible, she was much more generous than before.

With that thought, he said nothing more and raised the whip to drive the carriage.

As the carriage slowly drove towards the city—

Shui Bi was making tea while occasionally glancing at Shen Wei. Seeing the madam still half-reclining and looking outside, her lips moved as if she wanted to say something, but she didn’t know what to say. She didn’t know what had happened in the plum forest or what was said between the madam and Liang Lingyue.

Liang Lingyue was highly skilled in martial arts. If their people approached, they would surely be noticed.

Besides—

The master disagreed.

Seeing the expression on the madam’s face, Shuibi didn’t know what to think. She watched the madam half-recline, squinting at the sun outside and smiling.

This kind of smile, she had never seen on the madam’s face before… Gone was the hesitation and indecision from before, as if she had let go of many things or figured out many things.

But what this expression meant, whether it was good or bad, she couldn’t tell.

What exactly did they talk about?

Although Shen Wei hadn’t turned around, she could feel Shui Bi’s gaze on her. She knew what Shui Bi was thinking but didn’t want to say more. The sun shone through the clouds on her. Maybe because it had just rained, the sun wasn’t too harsh, and with the warm wind, it felt very comfortable.

She leaned against the window, enjoying the warm sun and wind outside.

After a while, hearing the tea boiling, she glanced at Shui Bi and, seeing her frowning, smiled and said, “The water is boiling.”

Hearing this, Shui Bi came back to her senses. She quickly composed herself and responded lightly. After making a fresh cup of tea, she looked at Shen Wei and couldn’t help but say, “Madam, you…”

“Shh—”

Shen Wei interrupted her. She was still smiling. She lifted the curtain a bit more and said, “Look outside.”

Shui Bi didn’t understand her meaning, but she didn’t speak and simply followed her lead to look out the carriage window. Although the rain had stopped, there was still a faint mist lingering in the mountains. Through this thin mist, a rainbow stretched across the sky. The rainbow extended far and was quite prominent, even with the mist obscuring it.

Aside from her childhood, she had never seen such a rainbow. She momentarily forgot the question she had intended to ask and murmured, “Is this… a rainbow?”

“Yes…”

Shen Wei held the curtain of the carriage with one hand and looked out, gazing at the rainbow in the sky. The smile on her face deepened.

—-

Meanwhile, in the plum grove.

After seeing Shen Wei off, Liang Lingyue had not left. He stood there with his hands behind his back, looking at the rainbow in the sky, a faint smile appearing on his face. He tilted his head slightly to gaze at the arc of the rainbow and softly recited, “Once drunk, I whipped my famed horse, fearing that too much affection would burden the beauty.”

As he recited this poem, a smile lingered on his face, but there was a hard-to-describe feeling in his heart.

This poem was a gift from a friend who once said, “Brother Liang, someone like you may never find a person who suits your heart for the rest of your life…” Now he had found someone, but she didn’t reciprocate his feelings.

Thinking of this, he didn’t know whether to feel helpless or amused, so he shook his head.

The rainbow in the sky gradually faded. Just as Liang Lingyue was about to take a step forward, he heard footsteps behind him. His expression instantly changed, and his grip on the jade flute tightened. But when he turned around and saw the person, he couldn’t tell whether he was surprised or expecting it, and said, “It’s you.”