Knowing that Zhao Yan had met with Shí Hánxiāo, Gu Muling was so excited that she practically wanted to learn every detail of Shí Hánxiāo’s life over the past twenty-odd years. She was still worried about Wú Qiūyān; this man was in his twenties, had no concubines, no handmaidens, and not even a single rumor of a romantic entanglement. She couldn't help but let her imagination run wild.
After some hesitation, Gu Muling voiced her suspicions, "Yan, do you think he’s incapable, or is he perhaps inclined toward men?" It was a rather offensive question, but Gu Muling truly could not fathom how a man with such a good background and handsome features could remain single until now. It was simply baffling. Furthermore, Shí Hánxiāo was an only son; in an environment where concubines’ children were everywhere, the Marchioness of Xuanwu’s household was quite an anomaly.
Regarding Gu Muling’s speculation, Zhao Yan could only offer a wry smile. "I only just met him today, but from what I can tell, it’s not what you suspect. Aside from the fact that he seems a bit difficult to approach, there’s nothing wrong with him." Zhao Yan had deliberately found an excuse to chat with Shí Hánxiāo earlier that day. He could sense that Shí Hánxiāo wasn't as cold as the rumors suggested; on the contrary, he was quite courteous. If one ignored his imposing, muscular physique, he seemed more like a civil official—he spoke in a measured, deliberate manner, and it was clear he was well-read, not just a braw…
Chapter 617