### Chapter 361: Forever a Young Master’s Person
Thanks to Tao Jiu’er’s tireless efforts and meticulous care, Yun Zhonghe was able to fully focus on preparing for the upcoming intense competition, without getting sidetracked by daily chores.
Tao Jiu’er not only took charge of taking care of Chen Leling, but also handled all the housekeeping and meal preparation single-handedly.
After the three of them had a simple dinner together at the dining table, Tao Jiu’er would prepare to return to the girls’ dormitory.
Every time it was time for her to go, she would head back alone.
But this time, Yun Zhonghe insisted on seeing her off.
“Young Master, you should just concentrate on training. It’s very safe in the sect, and I can make it back on my own no problem.”
Clearly, she didn’t want her presence to interfere with Yun Zhonghe’s rest—he had already been swamped during the day.
Yun Zhonghe, of course, wasn’t worried about Tao Jiu’er’s safety at all. He just wanted to spend some extra time with her.
“I haven’t spent any alone time with Jiu’er in ages. I just want to hang out with you more today—is that too much to ask?”
Yun Zhonghe’s straightforward words left Tao Jiu’er momentarily speechless.
Her eyes, as bright and captivating as peach blossoms, blinked softly. A barely noticeable hint of shyness and warmth flashed through them: “Well… if you say so, Young Master. Of course, I can’t argue. But what about Leiling? Isn’t she going to stay home alone?”
Yun Zhonghe responded, “Don’t worry, Jiu’er. Leiling has grown into a responsible girl who will stay home and behave herself.”
Moreover, Yun Zhonghe decided to temporarily release Xue Yunjian to keep an eye on Chen Leling, making sure she didn’t wander off.
Xue Yunjian grumbled internally: **Why do I always have to do this? The owner hasn’t paid me any attention, and now he wants me to be a glorified babysitter.**
She felt neglected herself over these past days and hadn’t had any fun at all.
Yun Zhonghe could see Xue Yunjian’s ethereal form slowly materialize in his mind, her image clearly annoyed and pouting.
She was too enthusiastic—couldn’t Yun Zhonghe give his other sword partner Gildu some vacation time?
Despite her reluctance, Xue Yunjian finally consented.
“Okay, Jiu’er, let’s go.”
Turning to Tao Jiu’er, Yun Zhonghe gently nudged her out the door when he noticed her hesitation.
Even though she still had reservations, she eventually gave in and followed him on this serene nightwalk.
The night was beautiful and deep.
Tonight’s moonlight appeared particularly enchanting.
Stars glittered like diamonds, shining brightly in the sky.
Side by side, they walked. No words were exchanged at first; only the gentle breeze brought with it the delicate fragrance of flowers, creating a soothing atmosphere.
Tao Jiu’er cast a sidelong glance at the man beside her. Unbeknownst to her, Yun Zhonghe seemed to have grown taller again, making him seem even more manly.
His maturity and composure stirred unusual feelings within her heart.
“Jiu’er,” Yun Zhonghe suddenly broke the silence.
“Huh? W-what?”
Surprised, Tao Jiu’er’s face flushed pink immediately, taken aback by his sudden call.
Yun Zhonghe smiled at her: “Are you tired from walking, Jiu’er? Do you want to take a break?”
“Huh?”
Tao Jiu’er was bewildered. They had barely walked a few steps, how could she feel tired this quickly?
But Yun Zhonghe had ulterior motives. He gently took her hand, leading her away from the path bathed in moonlight, to a secluded spot unseen by others.
Tao Jiu’er’s heart tightened. She tried to guess Yun Zhonghe’s intent, but couldn’t figure it out.
Here, it was just their breaths and heartbeats audible.
Yun Zhonghe grinned as he pulled her into a quiet corner: “Sit here, Jiu’er.”
Though unsure of what he wanted, she obeyed.
Her heart raced like a deer, as she sat down where he indicated, hands folding together on her lap.
As her heart fluttered uncontrollably, she thought he might do something strange…
But instead, Yun Zhonghe sat down beside her, right next to her!
“Y-Young Master?” Tao Jiu’er’s voice trembled slightly.
Without speaking, Yun Zhonghe rested Tao Jiu’er’s head on his shoulder, leaving her confused.
Then, he gently pointed towards the sky, guiding her gaze to the vast, starry expanse: “Jiu’er, look how beautiful tonight’s night sky is.”
Since her head was resting on Yun Zhonghe’s shoulder, Tao Jiu’er could easily look up at the celestial ceiling without straining.
The Milky Way stretched across the entire night sky, seeming almost touchable.
Tao Jiu’er was stunned for a moment.
“How beautiful!” she exclaimed genuinely.
The night scenery of the Xuantian Sect was a stark contrast to Cangzhou City. It was far more beautiful here.
The night sky was deeper and more majestic, with stars twinkling like diamonds set against black silk, casting a captivating glow.
Yun Zhonghe watched Tao Jiu’er’s face light up with wonder. Secretly, he was thrilled he had planned this moment with help from Xing Bu. She had assured him that this night would offer a spectacular view, perfect for stargazing.
Xing Bu, normally somewhat unreliable, had gotten it right this time around.
This indeed felt like a dream.
“Are you doing this just to show me the night sky?” Tao Jiu’er turned to Yun Zhonghe, giving him an enigmatic look.
Flustered, Yun Zhonghe’s cheeks turned pink as he scratched his head: “Uh… recently, I’ve just been busy with other things, so I feel like I haven’t spent enough time with you, Jiu’er.”
Yes, Yun Zhonghe realized he had mostly enjoyed all the conveniences Tao Jiu’er offered, rarely having the time to be with her. He felt guilty about it.
Back then, she had accompanied him to the Xuantian Sect. Yet, nowadays, he’s been preoccupied with various tasks, leaving little time for meetings.
Yun Zhonghe thought it was time to give her a break and spend more time with her.
Tao Jiu’er’s smile widened: “Hah! Young Master, to win a girl’s heart, you’re a bit old-fashioned.”
Yun Zhonghe: *silence*
He blushed, struggling to find the right words.
“Hahaha!” Tao Jiu’er burst out laughing, doubling over. Her chest moved gently under the moonlight, drawing attention to her curves.
Laughing, she wiped a tear of laughter from her eyes: “But I really love this sweet side of Young Master.”
Though gazing at the stars may be cliché, Tao Jiu’er didn’t mind. After all, Yun Zhonghe’s intention mattered.
As long as she was with him, anything was fine.
Yun Zhonghe awkwardly rubbed his head: “I did this because you’ve been working so hard. I wanted to find a chance to make you relax.”
Tao Jiu’er stretched her slender form: “Yeah, it’s been exhausting. Every day, bustling around like an old woman, tending to trivial details. You know I’m young and beautiful, wishing to see the world and discover new sights.”
With that, she leaned her head comfortably on Yun Zhonghe’s shoulder and wrapped her arms around him.
Completely nestled in his embrace.
At this moment, their hearts seemed intertwined, feeling each other’s warmth and heartbeat.
Tao Jiu’er sighed contentedly: “But there’s no help for it, since I’m a Young Master’s devoted servant. I’ll always belong to him.”
“Jiu’er…”
“But it’s better when the Young Master is busy. His busyness suggests promise and growth for the Yun family. My efforts need a return. I don’t want him to become idle, just indulging in pleasures.”
Yun Zhonghe’s thoughts filled with gratitude towards Jiu’er, who had molded him.
Yun Zhonghe deeply understood the unbreakable bond between them.
“Thank you, Jiu’er, for always taking care of me.” Yun Zhonghe squeezed Tao Jiu’er’s hand tightly.
Tao Jiu’er chuckled: “That’s my line, Young Master. I should be thanking you for bringing you into this world… Because of you, I have found my place…”
Her eyes dimmed slightly.
Like a star occasionally hidden behind clouds, losing its glimmer.
It was as if they held countless untold stories and secrets, some hidden even from Yun Zhonghe.
Holding her tighter still.
In her heart, Tao Jiu’er truly craved these moments of warmth and peace, being close to Yun Zhonghe despite her reluctance to admit it.
With more and more girls around Yun Zhonghe, their relationships flourished, but somehow, she found herself distancing herself.
“Can we spend some more time together, Young Master?”
She asked timidly.
She seldom revealed her vulnerable side.
Jiu’er typically portrayed a perfect, strong, and playful persona.
But cuddled up in his arms, Yun Zhonghe saw a different Tao Jiu’er—a more real, more cherished one.
Yun Zhonghe nodded firmly: “Definitely, or I’d request the same.”
“Hehe, it means our hearts beat together,” Tao Jiu’er teased.
So, Yun Zhonghe stayed in Jiu’er’s embrace for some time.
It seemed like forever before she shook off her drowsy state.
“Yeah, it’s comfortable… really. Almost snoozed off right here, showing how exhausted I’ve been lately.”
“It’s still early, Jiu’er. Rest a while longer.”
But Tao Jiu’er shook her head with a laugh: “No, no. Your shoulders are reserved for other girls. I only needed this little bit.”
Patting Yun Zhonghe on the back playfully, Tao Jiu’er giggled.
Confused, Yun Zhonghe eyed her.
Seeing his puzzled expression, Tao Jiu’er touched his head fondly: “Thank you, Young Master. You’ve done plenty already.”
“That’s good.”
“If anything comes up, don’t hesitate to tell me. I’ll help with everything related to Leiling too. Just focus on your training.”
“Thanks, Jiu’er.”
***
[End]
