Chapter 368 - Chapter 368: Chapter 375: Being Clever by Oneself (2/2)

The more Yan Pingdao spoke, the more he felt he was right, with even a bit of instigation in his words. After all, affairs between men and women cannot be entirely measured by reason. If there is any distrust between them, the outcome will not be favorable. Even if they can maintain appearances outwardly, there will be cracks in their hearts.

Han Yu’s expression turned cold as he looked directly at Yan Pingdao with sharp scrutiny, “Military Advisor, I hope you understand that my wife and I are one and the same. If you serve and follow me, you must treat my wife with the same regard. I asked for your advice, not for you to make decisions for me. Otherwise, I cannot afford such ‘talent’.”

Yan Pingdao was not an Imperial Court-appointed official but rather a talent cherished and hired by Han Yu, not part of the formal system, and Han Yu had sole authority over his retention or dismissal.

Feeling Han Yu’s stern gaze and hearing his words, as if seeing through his own thoughts, Yan Pingdao found sweat beading on his forehead despite the cold weather.

“Master, please forgive me. This subordinate will not dare to do so again,” Yan Pingdao wiped his sweat away. In front of such a Master, his petty schemes were indeed transparent. His words were an attempt at being clever.

“Remember, this is the only time. I will not tolerate any disrespect towards my wife, not even in thought.”

“This subordinate will remember,” Yan Pingdao replied.

Satisfied that Yan Pingdao had truly recognized his error, Han Yu relaxed slightly, but he decided to consider the proposal, as under the circumstances, he could not guarantee complete safety. His wife’s wellbeing was of utmost importance, but he couldn’t inform her in advance to prevent any leaks or because her acting might not be convincing enough. It was a matter of life and death, and he needed to be cautious. He just hoped that his wife would understand him later.

“Arrange things as you’ve described,” Han Yu decided.

“Yes, I will handle it immediately,” Yan Pingdao, warned by Han Yu, thought the matter would not come to fruition and prepared to think of another solution. Yet, considering no better alternatives at the moment and Master’s difficult situation, he didn’t expect Han Yu to agree. Indeed, Master was wise. He resolved to stick to his own duties in the future, letting the Master weigh the rest.

Su Wenyue was rarely so contemplative, quietly waiting for Han Yu to return, but before he did, rumors spread throughout Yiyang Prefecture. It was said that Han Yu had recently taken a liking to a stunningly beautiful woman, proving that even the previously devoted Lord Han was just an ordinary man.