Hu Yan reached the riverbank, his golden eyes scanning sharply. But no matter how he searched, Su Qinglan was nowhere to be found. His chest tightened. Where did she go?
Before he could move further, a loud voice boomed from behind.
"Oii! Hu Yan!"
He turned and suddenly half a dozen beastmen had surrounded him, grinning like foxes that found a chicken.
"We heard the news!" one shouted, slapping him on the back so hard his tall frame almost staggered.
Hu Yan frowned. "What news?"
Another leaned close with a wicked grin. "Don't play dumb. You've mated with Su Qinglan, haven't you? Our Hu Yan has already become her first beast husband!"
The group erupted in whistles and laughter.
Hu Yan's ears burned red instantly. His face, usually calm as stone, was turning crimson. "Nonsense," he said stiffly, trying to push past them.
But they only followed, blocking his way.
"What's it like, ah? Being pampered by a female?" one teased, wagging his brows.
