Years turn into wind

Chapter 164: Uneasy in Sweetness

The storm subsided, and Ling Xiaotian finally found time to return to the Marshal's Mansion. Cheng Yuwei had expected him to plunge directly into the busy military and political affairs, but unexpectedly, he took her to the mansion's garden instead.

"The weather is nice today. It's a rare opportunity for me to have some free time, so I'll walk with you." Ling Xiaotian said casually as he took out a cloth bag from behind and handed it to her.

"What is this?" Cheng Yuwei took it curiously and opened it. It was a thick chemistry notebook with formulas and annotations that she was familiar with.

"A while ago, I heard you say that the information in your study was limited, so I asked someone to collect some relevant books. I bought this notebook from a professor, and it should be helpful to you."

Cheng Yuwei felt warm in her heart and whispered, "How did you know I needed these? You really took the trouble."

Ling Xiaotian raised his hand and gently scratched the tip of her nose, then said with a smile, "The way you think about it day and night can't escape my attention."

Sweet moments in the garden

The two of them strolled along the path, the sunlight filtering through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, and the surroundings were filled with peace and tranquility.

"Ling Xiaotian, have you ever thought about what you would do when the war is over one day?" Cheng Yuwei suddenly spoke with a serious tone.

Ling Xiaotian pondered for a moment and smiled faintly: "After this is over, I might take you back to the countryside to live in seclusion. There are green mountains and clear waters, no fighting, we can farm and grow flowers, and watch the sunrise and sunset."

Cheng Yuwei pursed her lips and smiled: "Can you give up the military and political power? Even if you can, I'm afraid those people in the world will not let you go."

Ling Xiaotian held her in his arms and whispered, "With you here, I can let go of everything. As long as you're willing, I'll keep you safe for the rest of your life."

Cheng Yuwei leaned against his chest, his steady heartbeat in her ears, as if all the turmoil had nothing to do with them. However, deep in her heart, she felt a hint of unease: Was this moment of tranquility just the calm before the storm?

The rival's renewed provocation

That afternoon, Cheng Yuwei and Ling Xiaotian were sorting out information in the study when Su Yuanyuan was suddenly brought in by the guards.

"Miss Su, what are you doing here again?" Ling Xiaotian's tone was neither cold nor hot.

Su Yuanyuan showed no sign of fear. Instead, she smiled faintly: "Xiaotian, I'm here to say goodbye to you. Since you have already chosen your partner, I should also retreat."

Ling Xiaotian frowned slightly and said coldly, "Ms. Su's decision is very good. I hope you can behave yourself from now on."

Su Yuanyuan didn't leave immediately, but turned to look at Cheng Yuwei: "Miss Cheng, I really envy you. You know what? Xiaotian used to hate it most when others interfered in his affairs, even me. But you are so good, he even shared the information with you, which really opened my eyes."

Cheng Yuwei responded calmly: "Ms. Su, the relationship between people is based on trust. Perhaps you should look for the reason from yourself."

Su Yuanyuan's expression froze. She gritted her teeth and turned to leave. Ling Xiaotian looked at her from behind, a hint of worry between his brows.

"Don't take her words to heart." Ling Xiaotian said softly, looking at Cheng Yuwei tenderly, "She is just trying to sow discord between us."

Cheng Yuwei smiled and shook her head: "I won't fall for her trick. But, I'm a little curious, why did she leave so suddenly?"

Clues of conspiracy

That night, Shen Zhaoning brought an urgent piece of information.

"Marshal, after Su Yuanyuan left today, she actually went straight out of the city and met privately with a suspected spy."

Ling Xiaotian asked coldly, "Have you found out what they talked about?"

Shen Zhaoning nodded. "We sent someone to eavesdrop. She mentioned a batch of supplies that was about to be sent to the front line, and it seemed like someone was trying to tamper with it."

Cheng Yuwei was startled after hearing this: "Ling Xiaotian, I'm afraid this matter can't be delayed. If the enemy attacks the supply, our soldiers will be in big trouble."

Ling Xiaotian pondered for a moment, then gave the order: "Investigate all supply convoys, especially the one that departed tonight."

As they moved overnight, they discovered the replaced supplies in an unremarkable carriage. Ling Xiaotian sneered, "It seems the enemy has reached far enough. However, with us here, their plot is doomed to fail."

The tacit understanding of standing side by side

This action further solidified Cheng Yuwei and Ling Xiaotian's trust in each other. Cheng Yuwei discovered that she was no longer the chemistry PhD who only knew how to conduct experiments, but a partner who could face the ups and downs with Ling Xiaotian.

Ling Xiaotian sighed, "You are my lucky star. Not only do you allow me to see the enemy's tactics clearly, but you also let me know what true unity of purpose is."

Cheng Yuwei teased, "So, you have to listen to me from now on."

Ling Xiaotian laughed: "Of course. From now on, you are my advisor."

The two smiled at each other, with determination and tenderness in each other's eyes. However, they both knew that the real storm had not yet passed, and there were greater tests waiting for them ahead.