Chapter 368: 375: Being Clever by Oneself

Han Yu furrowed his brows when he heard that his wife would be put into a difficult position. He was the type of man who would rather inconvenience himself than his daughter-in-law. Moreover, incidents from his previous life were nothing but illusions to him, as they never actually happened. Since his daughter-in-law married him, he had seen all that she had done for him and all the grievances she had suffered. Even though his career was very important to him, she was equally important in his heart. He would never sacrifice her for his career. If it really was not workable, he would bear it temporarily and think of another way.

Upon seeing Han Yu’s reaction, Yan Pingdao knew that Han Yu was unwilling. He didn’t even ask what his plan entailed; that he wasn’t willing to let Madam suffer even the slightest grievance showed how much she meant to Master. However, this was definitely not the time for romantic sentimentality.

“Master, this subordinate understands that you cherish Madam greatly and would rather make matters even more difficult and complicated than see her wronged. But this might not necessarily be to Madam’s benefit. Firstly, from this subordinate’s perspective, Madam harbors deep feelings for you as well, and she certainly wouldn’t want you to sacrifice so much for her. Furthermore, compared to Madam’s safety, a little indignity is nothing. As long as she is safe, we still have many days ahead of us. Up to now, Master has not found a perfect solution to the current issue. If Madam were to fall into danger because of this, that would be a true loss,” Yan Pingdao advised, knowing what mattered to Han Yu and how to persuade him. The Master must not be dragged down by romantic entanglements, and what Yan Pingdao said was indeed a fact. He believed the Master could weigh what was more or less important.

“Let’s hear it then, what’s your idea?” Han Yu was clearly persuaded by Yan Pingdao. What he cared about most was the safety of his wife and child, as long as it was not too excessive…

Seeing Han Yu’s openness, Yan Pingdao’s face lit up with hope. He leaned in close and whispered a few words in Han Yu’s ear. Han Yu instinctively felt it was unacceptable: “Absolutely not. I promised my wife that in this life, she would be the only woman for me, and I would never give my heart to another, even if it’s just a temporary expediency. With my wife’s temperament, if there were another woman intruding upon our relationship, she would rather break than bend. I cannot bear the consequences. If it really came to that point, even if I succeeded, what would it matter?”

Han Yu’s reaction was not about being unswervingly loyal or believing in monogamy; after all, he was a man born and raised in the Daming Dynasty and his thoughts were no different from the men of his time. It could only be said that Su Wenyue’s influence over time was commendable, making Han Yu understand the gravity of the situation. Han Yu did not want to lose his wife, so naturally, he would not let another woman come between them.

Seeing Han Yu speak like this, a hint of disappointment flickered in Yan Pingdao’s eyes. Master was excellent in all respects, but he cared too much for personal affections. Although Madam was indeed a very fine woman who greatly benefited the Master, the only downside was that she was too jealous and overbearing, not allowing the Master to have other women. It would be good to seize this opportunity to break the status quo.

In his heart, Yan Pingdao did not truly believe that Su Wenyue would leave Han Yu if he took another woman. After a woman marries, she lives for her husband, and society definitely would not tolerate such jealous actions from her.

“What this subordinate means is not necessarily for Master to actually engage with another woman, just to create such an illusion without any real relationship. Even if Madam doesn’t understand at first, Master can explain the truth later and clear up any misunderstandings,” Yan Pingdao said, sensing Han Yu’s stance. Truly taking another woman was out of the question; he could only settle for a lesser alternative. Yan Pingdao was not targeting Su Wenyue personally; he was just too loyal and self-righteous.

Hearing Yan Pingdao’s explanation, Han Yu thought it could be workable. This wouldn’t count as betraying his wife, but merely a temporary expedient. Even if it was cleared up later, it was certain that his wife would feel hurt for a while, and he was reluctant to let that happen, showing hesitancy on his face.

Seeing this, Yan Pingdao urged more strongly, “Master must have faith in Madam’s trust in you. If Madam truly cares for Master, how could she not understand what kind of person Master is? Naturally, she won’t be deceived. Moreover, considering what Master has shared before, Madam is quite intelligent. She may very well discern Master’s intentions. Besides, it’s common for a man to have multiple wives and concubines. It’s just a woman to distract others and won’t affect Madam’s status.”

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.