Chapter 3 (1/2)

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Before the butler could finish, a feeble voice traveled from inside the bedroom, punctuated by a cough. “Is that you, Tang Qiu? Come in.”

Tang Qiu arched one brow at the butler, who had no choice but to step aside and let her in.

Jiang Shaocheng’s bedroom was sparsely furnished, a stark canvas of black and white that was almost stifling to look upon. He was still in his wheelchair. He coughed several times before turning his gaze to Tang Qiu in an unspoken question.

“I’ve never been anyone’s wife before,” she explained. “I thought I’d… come and ask what duties are required of me.”

The words were poised to leave Jiang Shaocheng’s tongue, to assure her that nothing was needed of her, but then he changed his mind. “The room is a little warm. If you don’t mind… you could help me change my clothes.” He was still dressed in his formal suit from the wedding.

Tang Qiu nodded, moving to unbutton his suit with deft fingers. As she was removing his jacket, their eyes met. She didn’t resist, allowing him to observe her. Once his jacket was off, Tang Qiu reached out to unbutton his shirt, but he stopped her, saying, “I can manage this on my own.”

Tang Qiu didn’t argue. “Okay. You might have a harder time with your pants, though, so let me help you with them.”

Jiang Shaocheng didn’t respond.

Despite her initial assertiveness, Tang Qiu soon found herself struggling with the task. She had never had cause to unfasten a man’s belt before, and after several failed attempts, she was forced to ask for help. “Could you show me how to do this?”

Wordlessly, Jiang Shaocheng took hold of her soft, small hands and guided them to the hidden buckle at the side of his belt. With a click, the belt came undone.

“A hidden buckle,” Tang Qiu murmured, fascination playing across her face. “I see.” Briskly, without giving him a chance to refuse, she pulled down his pants.

Jiang Shaocheng had been prepared to tell her to let the butler assist him instead. He fell silent, feeling the chilly air caress his lower body. While removing his pants, Tang Qiu could not help her skin grazing his. Her fingertips were warm and soft, brushing across his legs like the kiss of a feather. Her eyes traveled the length of his legs–slender, well-muscled, and full of strength.

Jiang Shaocheng found himself helpless but to sit under her unconcealed scrutiny. He placed both hands on his knees in a futile attempt at modesty. “Thank you. Please ask Uncle Wang to come in.”