The atmosphere was somewhat awkward.
Gu Sinian had no intention of speaking first.
Gu Changwei ultimately had to take the initiative, "A Nian, how have you been lately?"
The words, dry and perfunctory, only deepened the awkwardness.
Gu Sinian spoke, his voice clear and cold, "Duke, to what do I owe the honor of your visit?"
His demeanor suggested he wanted them to state their business and leave if there was none.
"It's about your elder brother." Gu Changwei had initially hoped to ease the tension between them, but Gu Sinian was uncooperative, forcing him to state his purpose.
"Oh?" Gu Sinian raised an eyebrow.
"He made mistakes, but... it's not entirely his fault. Over the years, I neglected his upbringing and indulged him too much, which led him to commit grave errors." Gu Changwei took responsibility, unaware that his words were deeply ironic to Gu Sinian.
As sons, he and Gu Siya were worlds apart.
"The Duke is indeed self-aware."
He knew everything, yet still acted as he pleased.
"I know you resent me." Gu Changwei lowered his stance. "I know I was wrong now, and in the future, I will do my best to compensate you."
"Resentment? The Duke is overthinking. There is none," Gu Sinian replied.
He didn't care, so there was no resentment.
Gu Changwei looked bitter. "I... I have wronged you and your mother."
"Does the Duke not think it's too late to say this now?" Gu Sinian's words were devoid of emotion.
"Yes, it is late. If it weren't for this matter, I wouldn't have the face to see you." Gu Changwei said, "Regardless, you and Siya are brothers. He knows his mistakes now, so please help him."
"I cannot help," Gu Sinian refused flatly.
"You have influence with His Majesty. Your words would surely be heeded by the Emperor." Gu Changwei pressed.
"Is the Duke not afraid of bringing trouble upon himself by saying this? As a subject, to sway the Emperor's decisions? The Duke has lived long enough; I have not. As the Duke just said, you are sorry to me and my mother and wish to compensate. Then I ask the Duke not to make things difficult for me. Consider this your compensation." Gu Sinian stated.
"A Nian!" Gu Changwei's voice held a plea.
Gu Sinian remained unmoved.
"Your grandmother is old. Can you bear to see her worry herself sick over these matters?" Gu Changwei appealed.
"Since you know my grandmother is old, why do you still trouble her with such matters?" Gu Sinian retorted.
"Siya is also your grandmother's grandson," Gu Changwei emphasized. Regardless, this was a fact. However, he couldn't understand why his mother hadn't agreed to help after two days of pleading, leaving him no choice but to seek out A Nian.
Gu Sinian sneered.
Over the years, Gu Siya, relying on Gu Changwei's backing, had never truly shown respect to their grandmother.
"So, the Duke means my grandmother sent you?"
"Then I must go ask Grandmother how she wishes me to proceed."
With that, Gu Sinian prepared to leave.
Gu Changwei quickly stopped him, "Your grandmother did not send me."
"A Nian, tell me, what would it take for you to help Siya? Name your price, and I will agree to it all."
Gu Changwei's tone was urgent.
"I have no demands of the Duke."
He had no demands of someone who was irrelevant to him.
Gu Changwei was about to say more when an imperial envoy arrived, summoning Gu Sinian to the palace immediately. Gu Sinian left after uttering, "Farewell," without looking back.
Gu Changwei stood stunned for a long moment, then walked out dejectedly.
Did he really have to beg Tingxue?