Chapter 008: Memories Best Left Unremembered (4)
“Get up if you’re awake.” The cold yet melodious voice rang out again, jolting Jin’er back to her senses. Her cheeks flushed as she sat up from the ground.
He handed her two wild fruits, each about the size of an egg, their deep red hue irresistibly enticing.
Jin’er took them in surprise, turning them over in her hands. “Are these edible?” she asked him innocently, shaking the fruit in her hand.
“If you couldn’t eat them, why would I give them to you?” He frowned slightly, a hint of impatience flickering in his icy gaze.
Afraid he might be displeased, Jin’er quickly answered with a meek “Oh,” and took a large bite. Instantly, a sweet fragrance filled her mouth; the tangy, refreshing flavor was delightful, and joy sparkled in her eyes.
“It’s delicious! What’s this fruit called?” Jin’er said excitedly as she chewed.
He didn’t even glance at her, ignoring her surprise and not bothering to answer.
Jin’er stuck out her tongue and said nothing more, savoring the fruit. She had never tasted anything like this in the palace, much less in the modern world. This was a truly wild, natural fruit, and she adored its flavor.
In no time, Jin’er finished the fruit, licking the sweet juice from her lips with lingering satisfaction. She turned to him with a bright, sweet smile, dimples appearing on either side of her mouth, making her look especially charming.
After eating, Jin’er followed the handsome man with a face as cold as winter. Though he never spoke to her along the way, simply walking ahead with his sword in hand, Jin’er felt an indescribable satisfaction and sense of security watching his elegant, upright back.
How wonderful would it be to stay by his side forever? He was pleasing to the eye, could serve as her protector, and even provided food...
Eventually, they reached the town. Jin’er was taken to buy new clothes; in an instant, she no longer looked like a ragged beggar. Then, the two entered a restaurant together.
As soon as the first dish arrived, Jin’er couldn’t hold back any longer. She grabbed her chopsticks and began devouring the food with abandon.
“Slow down. No one’s going to take it from you.” He frowned slightly, pouring a cup of water and setting it in front of her, his tone indifferent.
Jin’er paid no heed. After the past few days, she was truly famished—nearly starved to death—and now, faced with so much delicious food, how could she possibly restrain herself?
“Brother, what’s your name?” Jin’er looked up at him halfway through her meal.
Receiving no response, Jin’er continued chewing and said, “I’m Jin’er. What about you?”
His cold, handsome face tightened with a faint frown, but he finally replied in a flat tone, “Ye.”
“Ye?” Jin’er nodded thoughtfully as she chewed on a piece of chicken, musing to herself: The name suits him—deep and unfathomable like the night, impossible to read.
Once they were full, the two left the restaurant. Just a few steps outside, Ye pulled a small pouch from his chest and pressed it into Jin’er’s hand.
“Look after yourself. Don’t follow me anymore.” With that, he turned and walked away without a backward glance.
Jin’er squeezed the heavy cloth bag, knowing it was filled with a considerable amount of silver coins. She was deeply moved. In these days, others wouldn’t spare her even a single bun, yet he gave her so much silver. It made her believe that there were still good people in the world.
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