The Bodyguard King’s CEO Wife Chapter 1482: The Guest Overshadowing the Host

With her slender, jade-like finger, Hua Liandie gently pressed it against Ye Shikai’s lips, signaling him to remain silent.

Suddenly, a soft cough echoed from the doorway. Turning their heads, both Ye Shikai and Hua Liandie saw He Linghan standing there, her expression a mixture of shock as she observed the seemingly intimate pair. A moment of awkward silence passed between the three, leaving Ye Shikai feeling incredibly embarrassed.

"Please, continue your conversation," He Linghan said hastily, placing down the teapot she was holding and retreating back inside with a blush. Ye Shikai quickly removed Hua Liandie’s delicate hand.

"Ah, you’ve really put me in a tight spot," Ye Shikai couldn’t help but murmur, expressing his frustration.

"You had better hurry and clarify things with your new wife," Hua Liandie said with a cold, faint chuckle.

"I... I’ll come find you later." Ye Shikai, momentarily speechless, quickly entered the house to explain the situation to He Linghan.

"Ling’er, what just happened... it was an accident. We were discussing some very important matters," Ye Shikai struggled to find words that were both reasonable and wouldn't cause He Linghan to overthink.

"The village is facing a shortage of food, and only Hua Liandie can help us..."

"Alright, there’s no need to explain further. I trust you," He Linghan replied with a smile, instantly easing Ye Shikai’s tension. Her unconditional trust brought him immense relief. He mused that the mindset of women in ancient times was indeed quite different. In modern times, he suspected a lengthy explanation would be required for Su Qingyu, and even then, her disapproving glare would likely be unavoidable.

"Furthermore, if Hua Liandie truly possesses such capabilities, I believe it’s beneficial for her to remain by your side, isn’t it?" He Linghan’s sudden change of subject startled Ye Shikai so much that he nearly choked on his tea. He had never anticipated He Linghan would say such a thing.

"Ling’er, what do you mean by that? Could it be... you’re feeling upset?" Ye Shikai wondered if He Linghan was still harboring secret unhappiness. Otherwise, how could any wife suggest her husband accept another woman?

"Of course not. Didn’t you mention it before? Hua Liandie is an exceptionally capable individual, and having her by your side could provide assistance, perhaps even save you in times of need. As your wife, my wish is naturally for your well-being. If she stays, how could I possibly refuse?" He Linghan responded calmly, as if discussing a mundane topic, a gentle smile gracing her lips.

Ye Shikai was taken aback, finding it hard to believe that the usually gentle and kind Miss He Linghan possessed a "cunning" side. It seemed he needed to "redefine" his new wife. Yet, truthfully, he understood the underlying meaning of her words. After all, Hua Liandie possessed wealth, resources, information, and connections. Given her noble background from the State of Chu, she would undoubtedly know many influential figures from the six other states. Even after Qin's conquest of the six states, these nobles, though stripped of their former privileges, still commanded significant wealth and maintained close ties with local prefectural governors and commanders. Therefore, Hua Liandie must possess an extensive "network of connections."

He also considered that in ancient times, it was common for men to have multiple wives and concubines, often for the purpose of bearing heirs. In essence, even if Ye Shikai were to take a concubine, it would not be seen as an issue. Of course, he would never entertain such a notion...

Evening.

"There isn’t much of considerable value in the village; please forgive us, Miss," He Linghan said during dinner as she served the dishes. It was true that during the Qin Dynasty, ordinary households had limited provisions, and many modern fruits and vegetables were nonexistent.

"It’s quite alright. Miss He is a most gracious host; how could I possibly be displeased?" Hua Liandie replied with a faint smile. Ye Shikai had a sinking feeling that having these two women share a meal at the same table was perhaps the greatest misstep he had taken since arriving in the Qin Dynasty.

"Hua Liandie, the living conditions here in the village are rather basic. Will you be able to manage?" Ye Shikai inquired. In this era, luxury hotels were unheard of, and even well-appointed inns were a rarity, typically found only in larger county towns. It was highly improbable that Shangshui Village would have anything of the sort nearby.

"You underestimate me; of course, I will be fine. Besides, I’ve never experienced anything like this before, so I can take advantage of your wedding to have a unique experience," Hua Liandie stated softly.

He Linghan then brought out the meat and fine wine that Man Cang had procured. Given the scarcity of food within the village, Ye Shikai had instructed that the guards' rations be purchased from Heyang County rather than the village itself. Man Cang had consequently bought a considerable amount of delicacies and alcoholic beverages on his journey.

At least He Linghan remained amicable towards Hua Liandie from this point onward. Letting out a lengthy sigh, Ye Shikai suddenly remembered Hua Liandie's mention earlier that afternoon about her gift being quite special. He mused, why hadn't she presented it yet?

"Miss He, I propose a toast to you." Hua Liandie poured herself a glass of wine, then filled another for He Linghan, nudging it towards her. Typically, the host initiates toasts, making this guest-initiated gesture seem like an attempt to 'steal the spotlight.' This caused He Linghan to hesitate, her gaze seeking Ye Shikai's assistance.

"Ahem, perhaps it's best we don't. Ling'er doesn't typically drink. I noticed Man Cang brought out some potent spirits, and Ling'er has a low tolerance for alcohol. Should she become inebriated, it would prove quite troublesome," Ye Shikai, understanding her intent instantly, intercepted the wine glass and explained.

"I shall gladly consume this glass on Ling'er's behalf."

"Very well, then."

Hua Liandie continued to propose toast after toast, and Ye Shikai downed them all, until his head began to spin and throb relentlessly.

Casting his gaze upward at Hua Liandie, he observed that her fair complexion had taken on a slight flush, yet she exhibited no discernible signs of intoxication. He couldn't help but ponder if this woman's constitution was somehow 'water-based' or perhaps 'wine-based' – her capacity for alcohol was strikingly robust.

To be outmatched in drinking by a woman would, in his estimation, be an exceptionally mortifying experience, particularly when He Linghan was present as a witness.

"The hour grows late; I must take my leave. Farewell to you both." Abruptly, Hua Liandie set down her wine glass, rising slowly and offering a bow as she prepared to depart.

He Linghan rose as well to see her out. Ye Shikai attempted to stand, but the moment he exerted pressure on his legs, they buckled; the wine's potency was indeed considerable.

"It's quite alright; there's no need to see me off. My guards are stationed outside and will escort me back," Hua Liandie stated softly, her eyes briefly glancing towards Ye Shikai within the house.

"How is it? Has she departed?" Ye Shikai, steadying himself against the table, slowly pushed himself upright. Just then, He Linghan entered from outside. Upon seeing his state, she hurried forward to support him.

"Yes, she has just left." He Linghan’s gaze fell upon the empty wine jars scattered across the table, and she couldn't help but gently scold, "Your tolerance for alcohol isn't particularly high, yet you consumed so much."