Shao He leaned into his embrace and whispered, "We have just returned from Jingzhou, and if we bring up marriage now, I'm afraid you will be the subject of much gossip, with people saying you are eager to marry to gain advantage through my status."
If they proposed marriage at this critical moment, people outside would certainly gossip. She wasn't concerned about the views of society, but she was worried about Pei Huaian's reputation being damaged.
"Don't worry about what people outside think, I just want you to be happy. Besides, we are going to get married sooner or later, so there's no harm in doing it a bit earlier."
Pei Huaian, holding Shao He's hand, gently stroked the back of her hand and said earnestly, "I know you are worried about me, afraid that people will speak ill of me because of our marriage, but I'm not afraid. As long as I have you by my side, I am willing to do anything, especially since your medical skills are so formidable—who would dare gossip indiscreetly?"
