The Ger's Contract Marriage [BL]
Chapter 435: A New Coachman

Chapter 435: A New Coachman

Xu Zeng stole a glance at Bai Mo sitting across from him, who was fussing with his robes, before turning his attention back to the passing scenery outside the carriage.

Memories of their stop at Bai Mansion earlier that morning played through his mind.

He much preferred the lavish carriage, it was softer and he could lay across the seat comfortably and take a nap if he wanted.

It was more lavish than the cars he’d seen in the other world, although he was sure there were cars for the rich in that world too, he just hadn’t sat in one.

.

.

.

** Flashback to Bai Mansion earlier in the morning **

The sun began its slow ascent as the servants welcomed them to Bai Mansion. Unlike the lush abundance of foliage at Nanshan Estate, the mansion grounds were impeccably manicured, giving it a more refined air.

The greenery there also seemed to obey the seasons without the overabundance of vitality—Xu Feng’s doing.

As the group descended from the opulent G-Wagon of carriages, Xu Zeng found himself reluctant to leave the plush cushions behind. Yet, the sight of the provisions prepared by Bai Mo’s people spurred him into action.

With his white mask securely in place, Xu Zeng observed Bai Mo’s interactions with his servants.

There was a subtle shift in Bai Mo’s demeanor—he exuded a quiet confidence and authority, it was similar to that of a proud demon beast among its kin.

His leadership style was evident in the crispness of his commands, yet there was warmth and respect in the way his servants regarded him.

He wasn’t in Nanshan Estate anymore, and he initially didn’t care about Bai Mo’s people, but as he watched them greet the fox eared ger, Xu Zeng couldn’t help but smile slightly.

Bai Mo was still Bai Mo, but subtly different. It was a good look on him, but it didn’t take away from his usual charm.

Though they mistook him (Xu Zeng) for Xu Feng, it didn’t stop him from taking in the new experience. They even spoke to him with respect and admiration, and he wouldn’t correct anyone.

Still, he didn’t want to be stared at by strangers, so he kept the new white mask on firmly and answered politely but a bit indifferently.

Meanwhile, Xu Hu Zhe remained dependable as usual, standing by Xu Zeng’s side, a reliable presence in the middle of the bustling activity.

Together, they stood apart from the crowd, declining offers to retire to an inner room as Bai Mo attended to various arrangements.

It was an unfamiliar sight to witness the typically bright and happy Bai Mo assume a more serious demeanor, but his competence in managing his household was unmistakable.

With Xu Hu Zhe’s reassuring presence at his side, Xu Zeng felt a sense of comfort in the midst of the unfamiliar surroundings. He guarded his back like a shadow with the two excitable eggs securely in the large back basket away from any wandering eyes.

"Are you nervous?" The raven haired and towering masked man asked softly, almost under his breath, but Xu Zeng heard everything clearly as intended.

"Why would I be nervous?"

...

The bustle of servants continued as they moved goods between the carriages systematically. Some occasionally bowing in their direction. It seemed Xu Feng was very well known in the Bai Mansion.

"Do you like your new mask?" Xu Hu Zhe asked.

"It’s sufficient." It was.

It kept Xu Zeng secure. The presence of the man beside him also helped. No one could see him, and he was safe. Safe with...Xu Hu Zhe...

...

"I like yours better." As the words left his lips, Xu Zeng felt strange. It was just words, why did his chest pull and tighten? He did like Xu Hu Zhe’s mask better, what was wrong with that?

...

The silence wasn’t too jarring as the surroundings were full of motion, but Xu Zeng felt like the world would hear the beating of his heart.

It was like a caged thing lived in his chest, and was dying to be set free. Free to explore the world.

Xu Hu Zhe gently tugged Xu Zeng towards a secluded corner, his warm palm wrapped around Xu Zeng’s wrist, offering a sense of comfort.

He could withdraw his hand from the other’s grip easily, but the silver haired ger didn’t. He didn’t want to.

As they retreated from the prying gazes of onlookers, Xu Zeng felt a wave of relief wash over him. He hadn’t realized just how uneasy he had been until the reassuring presence of Xu Hu Zhe enveloped him.

In the quiet corner, Xu Zeng stood beside Xu Hu Zhe, grateful for the retreat from the curious stares. Their standing positions was careful orchestrated by Xu Hu Zhe, and Xu Feng was placed inward.

This kept him even more out of sight.

With a practiced motion, Xu Hu Zhe removed his mask and handed it to Xu Zeng, who reciprocated by offering his own mask in return.

The new mask provided a semblance of anonymity, but it lacked the familiar scent and sense of security that came with wearing Xu Hu Zhe’s mask.

Nevertheless, as they exchanged masks, Xu Zeng felt a weight lift off his shoulders, allowing him to breathe more easily. After a few moments, he spoke.

"We can go back," Xu Zeng suggested, not wanting to keep Bai Mo waiting any longer than necessary.

The trio boarded a less conspicuous carriage without incident, the sun now fully risen in the sky, signaling the start of their journey. Though the newest carriage was a far cry from the BMW carriage of Nanshan Estate or the G-Wagon, it served its purpose in keeping them under the radar of potential threats.

With the exchange complete in a mere quarter of an incense stick, only about 15 to 30 minutes had gone by.

The three adults had safely boarded the carriage with the two hidden eggs in tow, and another man hooked up a horse to the rental. They rode out of town with the light of day leading their way.

** Back to the Present **