After Shen An spoke, Tom and Jerry nodded in understanding—then immediately continued playing their romantic music.
Their attitude was clear: We heard you, but we'll do what we want anyway.
Watching the inseparable pair, Shen An could only rub his temples in exasperation. Fine, if I can't control them, I'll just let it be.
After all, his relationship with Xue Qinghe was completely proper. He had nothing to feel guilty about.
"Flirting?"
Xue Qinghe's cheeks flushed crimson at Shen An's earlier remark. All the composure cultivated over years of aristocratic training evaporated instantly in the young man's presence.
Xue Qinghe's gaze wandered aimlessly. The atmosphere was perfect, and he'd already obtained Shen An's promise. By all logic, it was time to leave—yet for some reason, he couldn't bring himself to go.
Nearby, Tom and Jerry exchanged exasperated glances as they played. Why were these two only discussing serious matters? Couldn't they indulge in some romance?
What was the point of youth if not for passion and enjoyment?
Abruptly, Tom set down his violin and produced a bouquet of vibrant roses. After stealthily placing them behind Shen An and poking his back with a claw, the cat immediately resumed playing as if nothing had happened.
Strangely, the bouquet simply floated midair. Jerry glanced over but found this perfectly normal.
Feeling something touch his back, Shen An reached behind himself in confusion.
"Huh? This feels solid..."
When he pulled out the bouquet, the sudden appearance of blooming roses—accompanied by a wave of pink, romantic energy that filled the room—left everyone stunned.
"Roses? What's Shen An doing? So embarrassing! But I'm supposed to be male right now—should I accept them?"
Xue Qinghe's normally tranquil heart thumped wildly at the sight of the fresh flowers.
Meanwhile, Shen An had frozen completely. Why did I just pull roses from behind my back? And since when do flowers come with special effects? What's with this pink glow?
His suspicious glare snapped toward Tom, who kept playing violin while innocently whistling and avoiding eye contact.
Case closed. This is absolutely Tom's doing. What's it scheming? Xue Qinghe might misunderstand!
Shen An shot the cat a withering look, then turned to explain—only to notice Xue Qinghe's face had gained a delicate rosy hue. Though reluctant to use such a description for another man, no other words came to mind.
Shen An suddenly recognized the problem. The luxurious romantic music, intimate atmosphere, and now roses—this scenario practically invited misinterpretation. His earlier joke about Xue Qinghe having "certain preferences" now made everything worse.
This misunderstanding has gone way too far! Shen An nearly wept internally.
"Wait, Brother Xue, let me expla—"
Before he could finish, Xue Qinghe's slender fingers gently covered his mouth. The cool softness against his lips carried a faint, soothing fragrance.
Yet beyond the physical sensation, Shen An's mind reeled. How did he move so fast? I didn't even sense it!
Though partly due to his relaxed state, this proved Xue Qinghe's extraordinary capabilities. Even Soul Emperors like Qin Ming couldn't move without Shen An detecting them—yet Xue Qinghe's action had been utterly imperceptible.
"No need to explain." Xue Qinghe lowered his lashes, still cradling the roses. "My younger sister happens to love these. How thoughtful of you to prepare them—I'll bring them to her."
Tom and Jerry secretly cheered. Perfect! This is how you move the relationship forward!
Meanwhile, Shen An numbly wiped his mouth. The touch had been pleasant, the scent lovely—which only heightened his discomfort. I am definitely not into men!
The more Xue Qinghe admired the vibrant bouquet, the more it delighted him.
When he noticed Shen An wiping his lips however, his eyes gained a hint of reproach. I'm actually a peerless beauty—how dare you act disgusted?
...Ah, right. Currently male. Never mind.
Tucking a loose strand of hair behind his ear, Xue Qinghe hastily changed topics:
"Shen An, while I don't understand your desire for fame, you must recognize its double-edged nature. Though it brings renown, without allegiance to a major faction, you'll struggle to benefit from it."
"Many forces are already investigating you due to your current visibility. I've intercepted numerous aristocratic inquiries, but greater prominence will attract attention from the continent's true powers."
"Remember—'the outstanding tree attracts the wind's wrath.' Please be cautious. If possible..." Xue Qinghe's gaze lingered hopefully on Shen An, "I'd like you to reside in the palace. Your safety would be guaranteed there."
The unspoken wish was clear—having Shen An nearby would allow frequent visits.
Of course, the suggestion also stemmed from genuine concern. Not every faction would tolerate a rising genius unchecked.
Take Bibi Dong's Spirit Hall faction, which had planned continental dominance for years. If they identified Shen An as an unconvertible threat, elimination would follow.
The only protection would be marking Shen An clearly as under his wing, making even Bibi Dong hesitate.
Shen An stared wide-eyed. *How did palace confinement enter this discussion? Does he really intend to keep me as some sort of pet?*
"Brother Xue, I deeply value my freedom. As for potential dangers—I'm confident in handling them." His polite refusal carried firm resolve.
Xue Qinghe smiled wryly, unsurprised. He'd only asked on the slim chance Shen An might agree.
Still, frequent interactions during his remaining time here could suffice. Once back at Spirit Hall, openly claiming Shen An as his protege might offer protection.
As for other factions? None posed significant threat. With Ning Rongrong's friendship and Ning Fengzhi's approval, most would balk at offending the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School too.
This realization stirred faint annoyance. Why should my special friend share closeness with others? He should belong to me alone.
Shen An rose awkwardly. "Well, with no further business, I should take my leave." The strange atmosphere had become unbearable.
Hearing this, Xue Qinghe felt an inexplicable hollowness.
With a wave, the roses disappeared into his storage. "Let me escort you out—I should familiarize myself with the route for future visits."