I am aging gracefully in the world of famous books

"Miss Gladstone, may I first understand what you need? Then, what can I give?"

Pei Xiang took two steps back with his hands behind his back, his gaze swept over the tall yew tree, and then settled on Mycroft's calm face.

"Mr. Holmes, you and I both know that the primary problem I face at this moment is how to get rid of the earl's interference and control over my life's major events as soon as possible."

Mycroft's voice was clear: "The most convenient way to solve this trouble is to change from 'Miss' to 'Madam'."

Pei Xiang smiled slightly, and stared at Mycroft with full eyes:

"This sentence is a bit redundant, Mr. Holmes. You should know that getting married is just changing from a dependent under the patriarchal authority to an appendage of the husband's authority. I still have to be subject to many restrictions.

"What I want is to be at ease from now on, and no longer worry about someone deciding my future without my consent, or even... after hurting me, those people can get legal and moral support. I don't want Waste your short life on other people's desires and selfishness."

The morning light fell on Mycroft's gray eyes through the branches of the trees, adding a few fragments of light to his calm pupils.These false refractions are extremely easy to create an illusion, making people think that the owner of the eyes is a gentleman with a warm heart.

However, both people present knew that they were engaged in a very serious negotiation.

"If your future husband respects your free will, doesn't interfere with your pace of life, and doesn't intervene in your pursuit of interests, can Miss be satisfied?"

"That is a very fine suggestion, but Mr. Holmes, where do you want me to find such a perfect man?"

Mycroft looked at the rose bushes not far away for a while, and those love poems with beautiful words but which he dismissed suddenly appeared in his mind. After a while, he made a choice.

"There is one in front of you." Mycroft looked at Pei Xiang seriously, "However, it is definitely not a perfect candidate, because apart from respect and loyalty, he may not be able to give more things to his future wife."

"for example?"

"Such as passion and admiration, such as a happy and warm home life, such as a truly unreserved trust. Before this, he never intended to spend his life with another person, relying on each other to be honest. So, when the change came suddenly, He can only promise to be a trustworthy and reliable companion, not a real one."

Pei Xiang drew a meaningless arc on the grass with her toes, and when she heard Mycroft so solemnly mention the relationship issue after marriage, she was a little puzzled, and then suddenly realized:

"Mr. Holmes, do you think that once a marriage contract is concluded, it will become a real couple? Even if there is no love between a man and a woman in each other's hearts, but because you have sworn an oath before God, you are admitting this The solemnity and truthfulness of the marriage?"

Mycroft also showed a surprised expression, and then frowned. He heard Pei Xiang's subtext, and this young lady was less responsible than he was.

"I don't accept false marriages, Miss Gladstone. Let's not talk about whether your social status allows us to have twists and turns in our private love life, but only about efficiency. As far as I am concerned, finding another love after marriage, It is a waste of energy and boring and troublesome in itself. Besides, how many couples in the upper class are together because of their deep feelings?"

Pei Xiang blinked, and suddenly realized that this person was really lazy and hated trouble.

"Mr. Holmes, please wait a moment, let me sort out the opinions and differences between the two of us. First of all, we both believe that the easiest way to solve the problem is for me to marry you. Then, you will not interfere with my future life , I got rid of the hidden worry of being strongly controlled by my father and a certain husband in my life choices?"

Mycroft nodded slightly.

Pei Xiang went on to say:

"Then, my opinion is that we become the Sherlock Holmes couple in name, and our private lives do not interfere with each other. Of course, in order to repay your protection, I will show some small skills I have mastered. Between us There will be a long-term cooperative relationship between each other for mutual benefit.

"Well, next, because there is no emotional bond between you and me, so, from my point of view, one day in the future, both you and I will be very lucky to meet a soul mate, then, let's It's easy to get together and get away. As for the way of breaking up, I think, with the wisdom of the two of us, we can solve the problem satisfactorily."

Mycroft pursed his lips, and then Pei Xiang continued:

"And my opinion is that since a marriage has been concluded, this relationship should be treated seriously. The oath you and I made before God should be true and valid. From what I know about myself, getting married once in this life is enough. I can't imagine that one day in the future, I will be fascinated by someone and can't control the fluctuations in my heart, so, Miss Gladstone, once I agree to the marriage, you will be the real Mrs. Holmes."

"But you can't give me the fiery love."

"I offer respect and loyalty."

"It's rare," Pei Xiang murmured softly, "But, after all, it makes me feel...a bit uneasy."

Pei Xiang lowered her head in thought. She never expected that after traveling through time, there would be a script of marriage first and then love. This is a bit exciting.

——Can I accept being with a good man without love?

——Can I accept living in a marriage without real feelings between men and women for the rest of my life?There is no possessiveness, jealousy, madness, nor fit, lingering, and belonging.

——If I accept, what can I get?A loyal but careless husband, a respectable and respectable wife, the freedom not to hide her true character, and a companionship that needs each other.

——However, on the premise that I have other retreats, when I really want to be here, should I personally kill off the pursuit of love?

——Even if the relationship is extremely unstable and illogical, every investment is a risk.But at the same time, love is also sweet, seductive, full of unknown charm and style.At the moment when the heart is moved, it should be a place where a hundred flowers bloom and cannot compete for beauty. Am I willing to miss such a beautiful scenery?

——Even if you may encounter bitterness and gloom, it is still a wealth of life.As long as I don't lose myself and don't go with the flow, I should wait happily, without fear or worry.I shouldn't have lived Xianyan's life as an 80-year-old who is indifferent and open-minded, seeing through the world, that would be too bad.

Thinking of this, Pei Xiang sighed.

"Mr. Holmes, it seems that we can't agree on the first question. I can't be as calm and restrained as you are, and you don't have high expectations for your love life."

Mycroft carefully looked at Pei Xiang's expression, and found that she was not angry or deliberately retreating, but really did not agree with his proposal.

This discovery made him feel depressed, and even a little irritable.

Even in his previous life, he encountered rejection and disapproval, but he never took it to heart.Because instead of haggling with short-sighted people about explanations, it is better to find another way to achieve the goal quietly.

He never worries about gains and losses because of the attitude of outsiders, at most he just laughs it off.

But today, in this picturesque morning garden, facing Miss Gladstone's green eyes full of vitality, he suddenly felt the urge to argue and explain.

"Miss Gladstone, I think you should know that some of the things you expect are always illusory. Even though it is described in hype and eulogized beautifully, it cannot conceal some cruel truths. That is, too much Exuberant and passionate emotions will interfere with reason, make people uncontrollable, and lose calmness and rigor.

"I don't think that with your intelligence, Miss Gladstone, you can't see the risks and troubles involved, and the elusiveness and elusiveness of some precious opportunities. Miss Gladstone, there is really no need for us to understand things that cannot be controlled by logic." Put too much effort into it, and it will only make people mediocre and confused, and lose their keen observation and reasoning abilities."

"Have you ever been in that kind of chaos, Mr. Holmes?" Pei Xiang asked curiously.

"Not yet, miss."

"That means you're judging something that's never been tried."

"It is impossible for a person to try everything in his life, but he can conclude and make reasonable guesses, so as to avoid detours and mud, Miss Gladstone."

"However, it would be so boring to walk on a flat and straight road all the time. Mr. Holmes, I believe you are not a person who likes dullness and mediocrity. You are in your field, strategizing, and enjoying some invisible pleasure of risk. , and are used to being winners and leaders, so are you hesitating about areas you have never been involved in?"

Mycroft couldn't ignore the bright and lively eyes of Pei Xiang, and at the same time realized that the two of them could not convince each other with just a few words, but they needed to reach an agreement.

Even though Pei Xiang was not afraid of trouble and was willing to spend time fighting wits and courage with people like Lord Gladstone, Mycroft was unwilling to let her struggle in the mud and swamp.Miss Gladstone's talent and sensitivity should be used on the right path and in more meaningful places.

Moreover, he is also very interested in Pei Xiang's disguise and camouflage skills, and he is reluctant to give up on it.Just like a giant dragon that discovered a treasure, how could it turn a blind eye to the golden wealth?

"Miss Gladstone, let me confirm again. The current difference between you and me lies in this: Regarding the matter of marriage, you have held the attitude that you will inevitably separate in the future, right? My thoughts are Yes, since the wedding has already been held, it is better to follow the trend and maintain this relationship for a long time to become a real couple."

Pei Xiang nodded and said sincerely:

"Mr. Holmes, you are right in thinking. But I am only this year, and I don't want to set a framework for the next few decades at such a young age. Gentlemen value promises, and I also want to be responsible for my words." So, since there was hesitation and reluctance from the very beginning, I can't deceive you. Mr. Holmes, to be honest, the only thing that can keep me is sincere feelings. I can fight for other things by myself. .”

"Sincere feelings," Holmes sighed with a smile, "that's a very precious thing. The lady's eyes are really picky. Temporary sincerity is easy to get, but a lifetime of sincerity is a rare treasure. Then, I hope you can get what you want, miss. .”

"Thank you for your blessing, Mr. Holmes, what about our deal?"

After pondering for a moment, Mycroft decided to make some compromises:

"Then, Miss Gladstone, do you think this is okay? Let's make a time appointment, for each other."

"Appreciate further details."

"We use ten years as a deadline. During these ten years, we will cooperate and work hard to cultivate our relationship. Don't think about separating. After ten years, if you still want to change your life style, let's figure out how to break up decently and return to our respective lives. Live independently, okay?"

"Break up decently, well, after ten years, you won't despise trouble?"

"Miss, this is my plan to slow down the war. I bet that you will be more open in the past ten years. You must know that people's hearts are fickle and things are impermanent. I have a high chance of winning the bet. Of course, if I lose the bet, I will be very happy, because my friend I have obtained a rare treasure, and I will always send my sincere blessings."

Pei Xiang felt relieved, and at the same time was willing to give up three points:

"Mr. Holmes, thank you for your understanding and connivance. I think ten years is enough to change many things, such as your attitude towards some things, for example, I teach all the things I have mastered, and let some people master them." Essence."

Mycroft raised his eyebrows: "Miss intends to teach you everything?"

Pei Xiang smiled: "As a teacher, I plan to do so, but the aptitude of a student is beyond my control. Mr. Holmes, I am still learning about the skills of disguise and disguise. It will take ten years. , not only your people are absorbing knowledge, but I will also continue to improve. I have always believed in my ability, and I believe that I will not become a worthless collaborator."

"Although we have only known each other for a few days, I believe in Miss Gladstone's wisdom. You are the brightest pearl, but you have been covering up your brilliance. In fact, I am looking forward to more surprises."

Pei Xiang knew that Mycroft was further probing her details, and a shrewd and calm smile suddenly appeared in his eyes:

"Mr. Holmes, what are you thinking? I am only able to master such a magical skill this year. I admire myself. How can I have the extra energy to learn other knowledge? Those rumors and evaluations about me before... I think you I’ve heard it before, but in fact, most of those rumors are true.”

"for example?"

"For example, I don't have any talents that a lady must have. For example, I can't play the piano, female celebrities are very bad, I can't speak French and Latin well, I lack knowledge of contemporary literature and history, etc., etc., are very credible .In a way, I'm really ignorant."

Mycroft smiled gently: "But you have something to say, you are rational and sober, and you are sharp enough. Miss Gladstone, when evaluating a person's talent, sometimes you cannot judge from the perspective of the secular public."

"That's quite a compliment, especially coming from your mouth."

"You are also complimenting me."

Pei Xiang frowned, and suddenly suggested: "Mr. Holmes, since we have reached the first agreement, it means that our relationship has changed. Now, you can call me by my name."

The tall gentleman's lips curled up slightly, and he readily accepted the suggestion: "Doris, please call me Mycroft."

The two changed their address to each other, and the atmosphere became slightly strange.

Pei Xiang looked around and didn't know what to say for a while, so he coughed softly.

Mycroft thought it was the morning breeze, so he invited Pei Xiang to go back.

"Doris, I noticed that you just said that we have reached the first agreement, so what is the second or third agreement?"

"Mycroft, after we get married, I want to go out and do something as Klaus."

"This is your freedom, Doris. As long as I don't go to the casino and the tavern to bring back the drunken Mrs. Holmes, I won't interfere too much with you."

These words made Pei Xiang burst into a smile: "Oh, Mycroft, what did you think before you agreed to marry me? I always feel that according to the scenario you imagined, you agreed to marry me, and you really did a great job. sacrifice."

"It's not about sacrifice, I trust your self-control and reason. However, it cannot be denied that once the restrained young people get the long-awaited freedom, they always have to indulge at the very beginning. So , Doris, maybe you think I'm going to break the contract, but I still solemnly tell you that I will not prohibit you from contacting some depraved things, but I will definitely not allow you to indulge in them. For example, drugs, alcohol and gambling."

"I'm glad we share the same opinion on this, Mycroft."

With the promise, Mycroft looked satisfied, and he asked curiously:

"So, Doris, what are you going to do with Klaus' identity?"

"Mycroft, I hear you have a brother?"

"My brother? Yes, Sherlock Holmes, I suppose. You'll see him on the eve of our wedding. He's sixteen and a very lively young man."

"He hasn't gone to college yet?"

These words made Mycroft guess Pei Xiang's plan, and a smile mixed with surprise appeared between his brows: "Do you want to go to university?"

"Yes, I think, when you arrange schools for Sherlock, you can arrange one more person."

"Doris, I really support your idea." Mycroft glanced sideways at the girl beside him, and said in a teasing tone, "It's just that, before going to university, do you have to make up some basic cultural courses?"

Pei Xiang blinked: "Give me a year, it's enough."

The two were talking slowly, and they walked out of the stone arch in the garden after a while.

In front of the wide porch of the main house, they met the Earl of Gladstone, who was going out for a walk.

Under the earl's surprised gaze, Mycroft decided not to waste any more time. He watched Pei Xiang walk into the hall first, then turned around and followed the figure of the earl.

By the time of breakfast, the entire Gladstone Manor had heard the news that the eldest lady and Mr. Holmes were going to get married...

A month later, Pei Xiang met Sherlock Holmes who came to the wedding.

Sherlock Holmes was sixteen years old, tall and tall. Compared with Mycroft's tall and manly physique, he looked a little thin and thin, but it was not difficult to see that he would be a tall and straight gentleman in the future.

The appearance of the two brothers is relatively similar. They both have a pair of sharp and calm gray eyes and a tall hooked nose. Their faces are sharp and angular, and their jaws are square.

"Mr. Sherlock Holmes, hello! I'm Doris Gladstone, and I've had a hard journey."

"Miss Gladstone..."

"Sherlock, call me Doris, we'll be a family soon."

Sherlock Holmes glanced at his elder brother standing aside, feeling really puzzled in his heart.

He couldn't understand why Mycroft, who had always regarded marriage as troublesome, was suddenly ready to get married?Moreover, he also chose Miss Gladstone, who had an unusually sweet and enthusiastic smile.

Mycroft was indifferent to Sherlock's puzzled eyes. He remembered how he had been cheated by his fiancée for several days, so he didn't want to explain too much at all.

After Pei Xiang greeted the absolute protagonist in the world of Sherlock Holmes, he began to chat with other relatives and friends of the Holmes family.

After a group of people took their seats in the living room, Pei Xiang had already started talking about the new lace on the wedding dress with great interest, and the female guests beside her were also very interested in this topic.

When we meet for the first time, we naturally have to talk about some safe content that does not touch personal privacy.At this time, talk about the style of the bride's wedding dress, the flowers and jewelry at the wedding, and then talk about the scenery along the way and the details of the Queen's wedding, which quickly broke the unfamiliar atmosphere.

Everything is fine and normal, but it all makes Sherlock Holmes feel weird and uncomfortable.

He wasn't bored, because he was busy analyzing whether there was anything hidden about his brother's marriage.For this reason, he listened carefully to every word Miss Gladstone said, observed her every frown and smile, and tried to find evidence of the other party's extraordinary intelligence or siren witchcraft.

However, after listening for half an hour to Miss Gladstone's opinion on popular wedding dress styles, he gradually lost his patience.

He glanced at Mycroft, who had been sitting beside him all the time, and couldn't help showing surprise. He actually felt that... the other party listened with gusto!

When the interview was finally over, Sherlock Holmes caught a gap and took the time to have a few words with Mycroft.

"Mycroft, I sincerely hope you can explain something to me, otherwise I will feel that my brother has been tricked."

"Explain what? Sherlock, we've met for so long, and you haven't congratulated me yet."

"If this is indeed a marriage worthy of congratulations, I will definitely not hesitate to express my joy. However, after getting along for a long time, I haven't seen anything about that noble countess that attracts you. It even made you willing to walk into the marriage hall, which is so unusual."

Mycroft knew his brother was not easy to deceive, so he said very calmly:

"Sherlock, our family owes the old Earl Gladstone a favor. He once saved half of our father's life, so I have to take care of Doris for him."

"But I think there are many ways of taking care of you, and you don't necessarily have to marry each other. To be honest, Mycroft, aside from our blood relationship, I have to say that the girl may be suitable for a younger and sincere person. not you."

"That's quite a fair sentence, but I have to remind you, Sherlock, your brother and I are only 23 years old this year."

This answer made Sherlock Holmes raise his eyebrows, because he finally caught a trace of real emotion from his brother's calm tone.

—Just because I said he wasn't suitable for her, Mycroft's mood fluctuated?

Sherlock rolled his eyes calmly.

Mycroft patted Sherlock on the shoulder, and gently persuaded:

"Don't worry about it. At the beginning, I really didn't make up my mind to agree to this marriage. You know, I never planned to get married. But when I first arrived at Gladstone Manor, I found that Doris was in a very dangerous situation .Her generous dowry has attracted a lot of covetous eyes, and even before I arrived, she had already experienced an unsuccessful murder."

Sherlock has always liked to pay attention to news in this regard, and immediately said:

"As far as I know, the murderers have been arrested. The danger around Miss Gladstone has been eliminated."

"Sherlock, money touches people's hearts. If there is a first wave, there will be a second wave. Moreover, you have also met the Earl of Gladstone, and you can probably guess what kind of person he is. If I don't agree to this marriage, If I let them manipulate Doris, I will face endless troubles in the future. At least, I don’t want to face Doris’ future husband’s doubts and embarrassments all the time because of a property entrustment. Although I am not afraid, But I prefer quiet days."

Sherlock Holmes gave his brother a strange look:

"So, you just agreed to this marriage by yourself?"

Mycroft nodded, taking it for granted.

The 16-year-old Sherlock felt that this reason was too far-fetched, but it was also strangely logical, and Mycroft really liked this simple way of solving problems.

A Sherlock Holmes cannot ignore the kindness of life-saving, so since it is necessary to protect Miss Gladstone from harm, it is better to arrange people around.In a way, it's all done once and for all.

"By the way, Sherlock, I remember you were very interested in disguise and acting?" Mycroft interrupted Sherlock's thoughts indiscriminately.

"Yes, I hope to imitate people with different identities, clothing, temperament, accent and shape, all aspects."

"After I get married, I will live with Doris in London. You should come with me too. I will introduce you to a teacher who can teach you a lot of real things."

Sherlock Holmes immediately became energetic. The other party's evaluation from Mycroft showed that he was very capable, and he would definitely learn a lot of useful skills from it.

At this time, Pei Xiang came from not far away, holding a large cluster of blooming flowers in her hands, walked briskly to Brother Holmes, and greeted Brother Holmes with a smile.

Like all young girls about to marry, Miss Gladstone was all about sweetness and happiness.She looked at Mycroft with tender eyes, coupled with her beauty, no matter how hard-hearted a man is, he would be moved by such a wholehearted attachment.

Mycroft pulled out a pale pink rose from Pei Xiang's bosom, and inserted it obliquely on her hair temples with natural movements, also full of affection.

Sherlock Holmes: "..."