1339 Taken A Fancy To Long Yang Right Away
It turned out that, since a new leading courtesan had been born that night, Peony Pavilion had decided to break their usual rule of auctioning off the loser. Instead, they allowed Luo Xia to choose her own patron from the guests in the hall.
Every guest present was of eminent status. No matter who she chose, Peony Pavilion would receive a generous reward, so they were more than happy to grant her this much kindness.
However, nobody had expected her to take a fancy to Long Yang right away.
Lu Liangwei was still unable to comprehend the situation as she stared at the young woman blocking their way.
“Miss, is there something we can help you with?”
Xia Luo paid her no attention and kept her heated gaze fixed on Long Yang.
All three young men carried themselves with extraordinary grace, but Long Yang, despite his modest clothing, radiated a powerful and intimidating aura amid his composure.
Since Peony Pavilion had allowed her to choose a patron from the guests tonight, she would undoubtedly pick a strong pillar.
Moreover, this man was handsome and distinguished. Even though he was dressed in simple clothing, his innate air of nobility could not be concealed.
She had spent enough time in Peony Pavilion to become a good judge of character.
These three young men were obviously of high status, but this tall and handsome one was definitely a cut above the other two.
Therefore, when Madam Wang had announced that she would select a patron from the guests, he had caught her eye.
Her sudden descent from the stage plunged the clamorous crowd into silence, and all eyes turned to her.
Although Xia Luo had failed to emerge as the leading courtesan, everyone still secretly desired her for her beauty and unique charm.
The last thing they wanted was to return empty-handed after having spent so much money in Peony Pavilion that night. Spending a passionate night with Xia Luo would make the trip worthwhile.
Therefore, there was covetous hunger in the gazes that followed her.
However, they were soon disappointed and jealous when they realized that she had taken a fancy to Long Yang.
In the silence of the crowd, Xia Luo stepped closer to Long Yang and spoke in a voice loud enough for everyone to hear. “I apologize for being rude, sir, but I hope you can stay the night with me.”
The meaning of her words was clear as day—she had chosen Long Yang to be her first patron.
Lin Qingyuan gaped at her in shock.
She had not expected her to take a fancy to the Emperor out of all the people present in the room.
However—
She frowned and glanced at Lu Liangwei in concern.
To her surprise, Lu Liangwei looked flabbergasted too.
She had not understood the meaning of Xia Luo’s actions just now, but after hearing her request for Long Yang to stay the night, she figured it out right away.
Apparently, this young woman had taken a fancy to her husband and wished to spend the night with him.
The smile on her face faded, and she glanced at Long Yang with a small smirk. Before he could lose his temper, she stepped in front of him and tilted Xia Luo’s chin upward teasingly with a finger.
“What awful taste you have, Miss. How could you choose him when I’m clearly more handsome and rich?”
Startled by her teasing action, Xia Luo took a step back.
After she had calmed down, her heart swelled with delight.
Having people fight over her was a good thing; it would only boost her prestige.
However, instead of replying, she glanced at Lu Liangwei fearfully before sidestepping her and hiding behind Long Yang to seek protection.
It was as if Lu Liangwei was some sort of vile lecher.
Unable to hold her anger any longer, Lin Qingyuan was about to give her a piece of her mind when Lu Liangwei caught her hand.
Before Long Yang could act, Lu Liangwei suddenly raised her voice and said in mock sympathy, “Are you sure you want him?”
Xia Luo gazed at Long Yang with shimmering eyes, hesitating to speak. It was a sight that nobody could refuse.
“As long as you’re willing to, I—”
“Unfortunately, this man’s suffering from a secret illness. I’m afraid he can’t spend the night with you.” Lu Liangwei’s words left everyone stunned.