Chapter 243 - 243: Coincidental Encounter in the Stable
The atmosphere on site had turned chilly.
Zhou Xi, standing beside Shen Jun, was known for his approachability and knack for easing situations, a role he typically played in such circumstances.
With a warm smile, Zhou Xi stood up and strolled over to the other grill tables, as if nothing had occurred. He gestured towards the grill and remarked, “You guys are still learning. The charcoal fire is a bit strong, which makes it easy to overcook. Gao Qu, take out two pieces and re-grill them.”
Gao Qu snapped back to reality and noticed that the fire was now at the right temperature. Hastily grabbing the fire tongs from the side, he rescued two almost-extinguished charcoal pieces before setting them aside.
One of them moved, and the others slowly escaped from the suffocating shackles just now. Only those who were on good terms with Zhu Ming dared to help him to the bathroom and treat the blood on his face.
Taking this as a cue, Zhou Xi continued, “Little Master Shen rarely returns to the capital. Today, everyone’s here to hang out, feast, and drink. If you need anything, just find me. I’ll have it replenished right away.”
Observing the crowd’s reactions, the more perceptive individuals began conversing once more, and the atmosphere gradually regained its cheerfulness.
Meanwhile, Shen Jun was grilling skewers for Wen Nian, who obediently accepted them and indulged in eating.
It was rare to see Wen Nian like this. Shen Jun chuckled and said, “Did I scare you?”
Wen Nian nodded and quickly shook his head. Shen Jun reached out and rubbed Wen Nian’s head dotingly.
During the last incident where Wen Nian was “caught in the act,” Shen Jun had vented his anger. She wasn’t afraid of Shen Jun’s anger per se, but rather concerned about any possible misunderstandings. Just earlier, Shen Jun exuded an aura that seemed to sap the very oxygen from the air, producing an oppressive and suffocating ambiance. This invoked genuine fear deep within people’s hearts—a superior’s aura.
Wen Nian did feel a bit scared, yet she knew Shen Jun wouldn’t harm her. Her fear was limited, a mere twinge rather than anything overwhelming.
Jiang Zhen and Lin Yang looked at each other and completely changed their attitude towards Wen Nian.
After Wen Nian was full, Shen Jun took her to the racecourse to change into the riding clothes that he had already prepared.
Looking at Wen Nian in the mirror, Shen Jun raised his eyebrows.
Shen Jun didn’t let the staff follow him and pulled Wen Nian into the stable.
Wen Nian glanced at the horses, their glossy coats shimmering in the light, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Seeing Wen Nian like this, Shen Jun brought her straight to the last room. A reddish-brown horse was eating grass inside.
At the sight of his master, the horse abandoned its meal, moving closer to Shen Jun and affectionately nuzzling his head against Shen Jun, seeking to be caress
Observing the close interaction, Shen Jun grinned, his hand caressing the horse’s fur. He conversed with the horse as though addressing a friend. “It’s been a while.”
Wen Nian looked at their intimate actions and was a little envious.
Noticing this, Shen Jun bent down and retrieved some grass from the ground. Offering half to Wen Nian, he encouraged her, “Feed it a bit to acquaint it with your scent.”
Wen Nian took the grass and fed it like Shen Jun.
After seeing Wen Nian’s practiced movements, Shen Jun introduced him to her. “This horse is called Jueying. It was a loth birthday gift from my grandfather. It took me a long time to tame it. At that time, it was only three years old, so we grew up together.”
Wen Nian wasn’t well-versed in equine knowledge, but she could tell from its appearance that it was an exceptional horse. She extended her hand to touch it, but hesitated, wary of any sudden kicks.
Observing that Jueying displayed no aggression towards Shen Jun, Wen Nian’s envy resurfaced. “Did you name it Jueying because it’s really fast?”
Shen Jun nodded, a hint of pride in his tone. “It’s so swift that even its own shadow struggles to keep up. A bit exaggerated, perhaps, but it’s not far from the truth.”
Shen Jun took Wen Nian’s small hand and touched the tuft of hair on Jueying’s head. “Jueying, this is my future wife. When she rides you later, don’t resist.” Wen Nian flushed at Shen Jun’s words. His future wife? How had things escalated to this point?!
Wen Nian glared at Shen Jun coquettishly and pursed her lips to hide the smile on her face. “Who’s your wife? What nonsense are you talking about?”
Shen Jun was about to tease Wen Nian when he was interrupted by an excited voice.
“Brother Shen Jun! What a coincidence. I didn’t expect to meet you here. We’re really fated.”
The voice sounded incredibly familiar to Wen Nian. She and Shen Jun turned towards the source and spotted Wei Lai hurrying towards the stall housing Jueying.
Several paces behind her were three individuals—Jiang Chun, Jiang Ning, and to Wen Nian’s astonishment, Wei Xiao!