"The eighth of next month."
Pei Songhan hesitated for a moment, unsure if it was his imagination, but he sensed a faint aura of hostility.
Yet when he glanced up, He Siyu's eyes were calm—so calm it seemed as if he couldn’t care less.
He Siyu replied evenly, "Is that so?"
Pei Songhan smiled. "Your return to the capital is quite timely, just a month before my wedding. Otherwise, you might have missed it."
Though Pei Songhan had only spent a month in Youzhou two years ago, he had grown close to He Siyu during that time. He deeply admired the young general.
They were the same age, yet He Siyu had already fought alongside his father on the battlefield, risking life and death.
Even the Emperor had praised him, saying the He family had raised no ordinary son—one who surpassed his father’s legacy.
Pei Songhan, too, longed to carve out his own path, to escape the shadow of his forebears and avoid a life of idle comfort.
He Siyu’s lips curved slightly, but his eyes held no warmth—only a chilling coldness. "Indeed, quite the coincidence."
"Come, let’s head to the outer courtyard. I’d like to see Uncle He as well." Pei Songhan gestured politely.
He Siyu followed, his tone casual. "You’re familiar with this place?"
Pei Songhan chuckled. "Miss Xie and I have been engaged for three years. During festivals, I always come to Xie Mansion with gifts. Of course, I know my way around."
Though each visit allowed only a few fleeting words with her.
The Xie family was strict with propriety.
He Siyu’s expression tightened imperceptibly. Three years of engagement.
No wonder he called her so naturally.
"I mentioned this to you before, didn’t I?" Pei Songhan asked with a smile.
He Siyu remembered now. Two years ago in Youzhou, Pei Songhan had accompanied Duke Ning on official business, and his father had hosted them.
Since they were of similar age, He Siyu had been tasked with entertaining Pei Songhan. After they became acquainted, Pei Songhan had spoken of his betrothed.
"She’s well-read and learned, though her family is strict, and she’s quiet by nature. I rarely get to speak with her."
"But I love her. I loved her from the first moment I saw her, and she loves me too."
"Once we’re married, I’ll bring her to meet you if I can."
The memory resurfaced, and He Siyu’s chest tightened unbearably.
He recalled her leaning into his embrace, her clear eyes gazing at him earnestly as she whispered, "I love you so much."
Yet today, those same eyes had regarded him with cold detachment, as if he were something vile.
"Brother He?"
Pei Songhan noticed his distraction and called out again.
He Siyu finally snapped back to the present, his gaze landing on the familiar face before him—one he suddenly wished to destroy.
But as he stared at Pei Songhan, the restless fury in his heart inexplicably settled.
What did it matter if she had been engaged to Pei Songhan for three years? What did it matter if they were in love?
When she traveled to the modern era, hadn’t she still chosen him without hesitation?
No matter the time or place, Nan Sangning would always be Nan Sangning. Did anyone think she could change at her core?
The suffocating weight in He Siyu’s chest eased considerably, and his expression softened.
"Ah, I forgot."
Pei Songhan didn’t mind, merely smiling. "It’s nothing important, really. And I heard you were gravely wounded in Cangzhou. You must still be weak—why trouble yourself with Xie Mansion’s banquet today?"
He Siyu had been unconscious from his injuries, even missing an audience with the Emperor.
Yet here he was, attending an insignificant birthday celebration at the Xie residence.
"I woke just yesterday. The physician advised me to move about." He Siyu brushed it off casually.
Pei Songhan’s eyes flickered to the faint stain of blood seeping through He Siyu’s left shoulder. Was this really the time for "moving about"?
"Third Young Master, the master has been looking for you!" Fusheng hurried over.
He Siyu strode forward, entering the banquet hall in the front courtyard.
Lord Xie was personally entertaining honored guests. Today, the most distinguished visitors were undoubtedly from the He and Pei families.
"Siyu, come greet Lord Xie and Duke Ning." He Wanjun gestured.
He Siyu clasped his hands in salute, as did Pei Songhan.
Lord Xie beamed. "Young General He truly cuts an impressive figure—worthy of his father’s name! With such achievements, His Majesty will surely reward him handsomely."
He Wanjun waved a dismissive hand. "The boy merely got lucky, exploiting a weakness in the enemy’s ranks. Nothing worth praising. He still has much to learn."
Duke Ning chuckled. "I hear the Third Young Master has yet to marry. Once he does, he’ll surely become more steady."
Lord Xie quickly added, "Indeed. Songhan and He Siyu are the same age, and Songhan’s wedding to my eldest daughter is imminent. The Third Young Master is also at the right age for marriage."
His words, however, were directed at Duke Ning.
Duke Ning’s smile faded slightly. He didn’t respond, instead turning to He Wanjun. "Children must settle down eventually."
Pei Songhan clasped his hands with a smile. "Uncle He, I hope you’ll join us for the wedding next month."
He Wanjun nodded. "Naturally."
Then he glanced at He Siyu, his brow furrowing. "If only he were half as dependable as Songhan! He shows no interest in marriage whatsoever."
No interest? In Youzhou, they had already tried arranging matches for him, but this troublemaker had ruined every one. His notorious reputation had spread far and wide, striking fear into hearts across the region.
The mere thought made He Wanjun seethe. What sin had he committed to be cursed with such a rebellious son?
Yet suddenly, He Siyu clasped his hands and said, "Father, rest assured. I will marry soon."
He Wanjun froze, a flicker of horror crossing his face. Had his son been possessed? Since when was he so obedient?
Lord Xie laughed warmly. "Could it be you’ve already found someone you favor?"
He Siyu lifted his gaze, his dark eyes sharp and unwavering. His voice was calm.
"Yes."
