Does the Top Scholar Regret It Today? - Part 1
第1章 Chapter 1
Chapter 1
The Molin family was considered quite wealthy in Hepu, but unfortunately their birth was low.
Their family had started as peddlers, and it took three generations of hard work to expand the business. By the time of Old Master Molin's generation, they were primarily engaged in silk production and sericulture, and had purchased an official position.
Nowadays, though they looked respectable, if they encountered an official, they did not need to bow, and if they went to court, they could have a seat; but if one really wanted to talk about ancestry, compared to the kind of families that studied poetry and books for generations, they still lacked quite a bit. In the eyes of scholars, they were just nouveau riche.
But fortunately, their family's teachings were not bad. After becoming wealthy, instead of bullying the local people, they even donated generously, repaired bridges and paved roads, and had some good reputation. So although their birth was slightly lower, when one mentioned them, scholars would still nod and say "good".
Especially since Old Master Molin's youngest daughter married into a real literary family, which made others look up to them even more.
Talking about it, it was all thanks to Old Master Molin's kindness back then.
That year, there were changes in the capital, many officials were exiled thousands of miles away, and many who couldn't stand the hardship died on the road.
At that time, Old Master Molin was still young and traveling outside when he encountered such a one. The official guards were just waiting for that person to die before burying him locally and then continuing on their way. But Old Master Molin saw that the male child accompanying the official, even in his misery, still had a bit of calmness and firmness, which was exactly what he admired "the kind of children from scholarly families", so for a moment he felt compassionate and spent money to treat the official's illness, saving a life.
He thought it would just be a passing encounter and that would be that. Who knew that several years later, that official was rehabilitated again and again, and specifically came to Hepu to find his benefactor from back then.
That former male child had also grown into a youth by now. Even though he had been raised in the edge of the world, it couldn't erase his clear and elegant bearing. Old Master Molin loved him dearly.
Maybe because he was too fond of him, he couldn't hide it, so others saw through it. The father then said: "Back then, if it weren't for Senior Brother Molin, I wouldn't have been able to endure until Jizhou. If I were gone, the widow and orphan would probably also have no path left. This child's life was given by Senior Brother; let him be a half-son of Senior Brother."
A son-in-law is half a son; "half-son" refers to a son-in-law.
He had already been rehabilitated again and again, and if one talked about background, the Molin family couldn't compare. Suddenly, such good fortune from heaven, Old Master Molin was overjoyed.
The two families then became in-laws, and the Molin daughter who was just at the right age to marry thus married into an official household as if in a dream.
Several years after marrying out, now that Mistress Four of the Molin family had returned home for a visit, the Molin family welcomed their daughter with great fanfare.
But there was also a small unpleasant matter amidst this festivity - Old Master Molin's third son, Old Third Young Master Molin's concubine, Concubine Yan, had passed away.
"Nononono, why did it have to be at this time? Adding trouble in a joyous occasion. This concubine also lacked eyesight."
"How could she choose her own day to die?"
"It's just, Mother is very unhappy about this matter; she even gave our lady face."
"It was our Master who said earlier to let the daughter stay with our lady, and our lady had agreed at first, but now she's changed her mind again."
"Our young miss really has bad luck..."
"That can't be blamed on others, only because of her real mother."
The maidservants' voices were not soft. At least in the outer room, Molin Yiqing could hear them very clearly.
She had been lying down for two days now. By now she had figured out her identity - yes, it was that last sentence about "her". She was exactly the concubine's daughter who couldn't be blamed by anyone else. Her father was Third Young Master Molin, and her name was Molin Yiqing.
Of course, the real little Miss Molin Yiqing had died on the night her mother passed away from a high fever, and her soul had already been carried away to be reborn by her mother.
But now, the current Molin Yiqing was a transmigrator who had come through time and space here.
"By the way, table young master is so handsome."
The maidservants thought that Molin Yiqing was still asleep; they were chatting and gossiping freely while on break.
"You saw him too?"
"I snuck a peek out the window when Mistress Four and table young master entered; I saw him for just a moment, but he's really good looking. If he grows up, no one knows how much better looking he'll get."
"Did you know? The young master of the Pings is considered a great beauty."
第2章 Chapter 2
Molin Yiqing had been lying in bed for two days now. The maids were gossiping about their lady's unhappiness over Concubine Yan's death during Mistress Four's visit.
Molin Yiqing could hear the maids' voices clearly. They spoke ill of her and blamed her mother.
"Nononono, why did it have to be at this time? Adding trouble in a joyous occasion. This concubine also lacked eyesight."
"How could she choose her own day to die?"
"It's just, Mother is very unhappy about this matter; she even gave our lady face."
"It was our Master who said earlier to let the daughter stay with our lady, and our lady had agreed at first, but now she's changed her mind again."
"Our young miss really has bad luck..."
"That can't be blamed on others, only because of her real mother."
Molin Yiqing had figured out her identity by now - yes, it was that last sentence about "her". She was exactly the concubine's daughter who couldn't be blamed by anyone else. Her father was Third Young Master Molin, and her name was Molin Yiqing.
Of course, the real little Miss Molin Yiqing had died on the night her mother passed away from a high fever, and her soul had already been carried away to be reborn by her mother.
But now, the current Molin Yiqing was a transmigrator who had come through time and space here.
"By the way, table young master is so handsome."
The maidservants thought that Molin Yiqing was still asleep; they were chatting and gossiping freely while on break.
"You saw him too?"
"I snuck a peek out the window when Mistress Four and table young master entered; I saw him for just a moment, but he's really good looking. If he grows up, no one knows how much better looking he'll get."
"Did you know? The young master of the Pings is considered a great beauty."
Chapter 2 rewritten in natural English:
Molin Yiqing had been lying in bed for two days now. The maids were gossiping about their lady's unhappiness over Concubine Yan's death during Mistress Four's visit.
Molin Yiqing could hear the maids' voices clearly. They spoke ill of her and blamed her mother.
"Nononono, why did it have to be at this time? Adding trouble in a joyous occasion. This concubine also lacked eyesight."
"How could she choose her own day to die?"
"It's just, Mother is very unhappy about this matter; she even gave our lady face."
"It was our Master who said earlier to let the daughter stay with our lady, and our lady had agreed at first, but now she's changed her mind again."
"Our young miss really has bad luck..."
"That can't be blamed on others, only because of her real mother."
Molin Yiqing had figured out her identity by now - yes, it was that last sentence about "her". She was exactly the concubine's daughter who couldn't be blamed by anyone else. Her father was Third Young Master Molin, and her name was Molin Yiqing.
Of course, the real little Miss Molin Yiqing had died on the night her mother passed away from a high fever, and her soul had already been carried away to be reborn by her mother.
But now, the current Molin Yiqing was a transmigrator who had come through time and space here.
"By the way, table young master is so handsome."
The maidservants thought that Molin Yiqing was still asleep; they were chatting and gossiping freely while on break.
"You saw him too?"
"I snuck a peek out the window when Mistress Four and table young master entered; I saw him for just a moment, but he's really good looking. If he grows up, no one knows how much better looking he'll get."
"Did you know? The young master of the Pings is considered a great beauty."
第3章 Chapter 3
Molin Yiqing looked at the delicate girl in the mirror, unable to resist reaching out and touching her face.
This little girl was really pretty.
Poor thing.
She hoped she would have a good rebirth along with her real mother in another world.
Regardless of all that, now she was "Molin Yiqing".
Molin Yiqing stood up again, ready to take over the life of "Molin Yiqing".
First, she had to go to Third Mistress's place and show her face, indicating that "Molin Yiqing" had recovered from her shock and fever.
Which turned out to be a mistake - when she got to Third Mistress's courtyard, Third Mistress was just leaving for Pingshou's place.
Jameson listened and felt a stirring.
In the end, Hepu was only a small place. Everyone here yearned for "the capital", and this longing fell on Pingshou, who had returned from the capital.
Jameson coaxed Molin Yiqing to go over to Pingshou's place.
Molin Yiqing sighed. She'd brought Jameson along precisely because she thought Jameson was smart, but now it seemed that people were greedy and prone to mistakes.
She tugged at her mourning clothes: "Is this okay?"
It wasn't, but Jameson hesitated for a moment before saying: "Or maybe Auntie feels sorry for Miss, more caring..."
"Really won't feel like I'm bringing bad luck, from then on start disliking me?" Molin Yiqing asked. "Can you guarantee that?"
Of course, Jameson couldn't guarantee it either; she was just a thirteen or fourteen-year-old girl after all. What could she guarantee?
If Auntie really started disliking her, and Third Mistress got angry because of this... These consequences were not something she as a servant girl could bear. Jameson deflated.
Third Mistress's mom had all gone over to Pingshou's place with her, so Molin Yiqing just went up to the head maidservant: "Sister, tell Mother I'm fine."
"Good that you're alright, Miss still needs more rest." The head maidservant's tone wasn't very warm but also not cold.
Just... everyone was ordinary people, eating this meal, doing their part, just living ordinarily. It wasn't like the novels Molin Yiqing had read in her previous life, those were really melodramatic.
Molin Yiqing observed and breathed a sigh of relief, going back lightly.
She'd only been back for a short while when Third Mistress came back, having heard from the maidservant that Fourth Miss was alright. She didn't care about Molin Yiqing, just saying: "Know."
But she whispered to her trusted mom Mrs. Sun: "Sister, how could Pingshou possibly let her son marry our girl again? Not even mentioning that there's no eldest daughter in my room! I said he was daydreaming, and he didn't want to listen."
Snorted through her nose.
Mrs. Sun tugged at her clothes: "You should pay attention to your tone when you say this, don't be so... cough, careful with your attitude."
At least save some face for the man.
Third Mistress said: "Know, I'm just not gloating."
But she still couldn't help but laugh.
Mrs. Sun just looked at the ceiling.
Over in Molin Yiqing's place, she had relaxed back after returning to her own courtyard. She dismissed the maidservants and began rummaging around, familiarizing herself with everything here.
She'd only gone around twice when suddenly there was noise from outside, and soon a flustered maidservant rushed in: "Not good!"
Molin Yiqing had just arrived as "Molin Yiqing", wearing someone else's identity. She was still feeling guilty when she heard this, her brow furrowing: "What?"
The maidservant said: "Table young master is here!"
"?" Molin Yiqing paused before asking: "Which table young master?"
The maidservant replied anxiously: "Could it be any other? Of course, the one from Pingshou in the capital."
Molin Yiqing sighed internally.
It was understandable that to a nobody concubine's daughter, this Pingshou table young master would be some big shot. So even though he was just a kid, the maidservant still panicked.
On the other hand, it also showed that the quality of the maids in her courtyard wasn't too high. There were definitely higher-quality maids, but they obviously wouldn't end up with her.
Fortunately, these maids would all be getting married within a few years; she could pick out new ones then, and slowly groom them herself later.
Got sidetracked again, deal with the present first.
Molin Yiqing asked: "Table young master where?"
The maidservant composed herself before saying: "Table young master is in the courtyard, he insists we inform you first."
Molin Yiqing had figured out that Jameson must have been overly enthusiastic and directly invited the Pingshou table young master into her main hall, resulting... in being refused by him.
Molin Yiqing may be a transmigrator, but she still knew something about this world's age.
But for a kid not even as old as her to be so strict with these rules... it was quite shocking. Molin Yiqing felt her nerves tighten again.
She quickly tidied up her clothes and told the maidservant: "Lead me there."
The maidservant led her out, and when Molin Yiqing stepped out the main hall doorstep, she saw a little boy on the stairs below, with two other maids behind him.
Jameson was standing beside him, smiling coaxingly.
When she heard Molin Yiqing come out, Pingshou looked up. The two kids faced off for an instant across the steps.
Molin Yiqing marveled - those maidservants weren't wrong; this table young master really was good looking.
Still just a little kid but already had eyes like eyes and nose like nose, as long as he didn't grow ugly later, when he grew up he'd probably drive countless girls crazy.
Pingshou saw the girl on the steps, his mind flashing with "beautiful appearance, educated and refined; good nature, pure and clear". This table sister was like a fallen jade flower, pitifully without her own mother anymore.
He felt even more sorry for her, calling out: "Table sister?"
Molin Yiqing quickly walked down the steps to meet him: "Is it Pingshou?"
Pingshou bowed properly and introduced himself: "My single name is one '缇' character, no table name yet. Table sister can call me Pingshou."
Even though he was just a kid, his bowing and speaking were both very proper.
But when Molin Yiqing walked down and stood beside Pingshou, she was half a head taller than him. Kids that age were like this; girls grew first, boys came later.
Molin Yiqing's tension instantly disappeared - no matter how strict with these rules, he was still just a kid. Nothing to fear.
Instead, her heart filled with affection - this little boy was so well-behaved and spoke so old-fashioned, he was just too cute!
She said gently: "I know you. The past two days everyone's been talking about Auntie and you. Didn't think you'd come over here."
That tone was exactly how adults talked to kids. In another timeline, it would've been called a "sandwich voice".
Listening to this in Pingshou's ears, he only felt his table sister's voice was both soft and milky. He stated his business: "Mother knows Table Sister just lost her mother, but Mother is busy so sent me to visit Table Sister. Table Sister, please be at peace."
Molin Yiqing had no grief, she wasn't the real "Molin Yiqing". She feared her acting wouldn't pass, quickly raising her arm, sleeve covering half her face, and letting out a muffled "um" sound as if choking back sobs.
She'd intended to invite Pingshou into the house just now, but his few words changed her mind.
She'd only just arrived in this world, still in the adaptation phase. The other was clearly a kid but seemed to know even more about these rules than she did. Better not invite him inside.
Less doing meant less mistakes.
She remembered many places saying kids' eyes were bright, so they didn't let them attend funerals and such, and borrowed this excuse. Used her sleeve to cover her face, nose pretended to sniffle twice, saying: "Table brother came all the way from afar, I should invite you inside to sit but you're young, don't get tainted by my mourning."
From when Molin Yiqing came out, Jameson had been giving her eyes signals, who knew she almost went cross-eyed, but Molin Yiqing just refused to invite Pingshou in, didn't take the initiative to make friends at all. Jameson could only glare.
But in front of a guest it wasn't proper to say anything; especially since earlier she'd been overly enthusiastic inviting Table Young Master into her room before being coldly refused by him. It was too late to regret it now.
Molin Yiqing pretended not to see.
Pingshou also seemed not to notice, only politely telling Molin Yiqing: "Worries harm the body, Table Sister should rest more and take care of her health. I won't disturb you any longer. Here are some things Mother and I brought from the capital, just a little token, hope you don't dislike them."
Why was this kid so young but could say such proper sentences? In Molin Yiqing's world, these words had to be used by someone with a bit of social experience; too young ones couldn't pull it off.
Molin Yiqing was amazed.
This kid really couldn't be underestimated at all, she could only also put on airs and thank him back in kind.
Again personally saw the little boy to the courtyard gate.
"Table Sister stay." The little boy said. " Table Sister should pay attention to her meals, even when mourning don't neglect rest, damaging your health."
It was afternoon now, the sun shone brightly.
The little boy had eyes as clear and honest as his.
In that moment Molin Yiqing suddenly felt everything around her become real - the brick carvings, wooden doors, the maidservants beside her, the male child in front of her... all became solid and tangible.
Molin Yiqing finally let go of that feeling of being both unreal and floating like a dream.
She was "Molin Yiqing".
This was her table brother. Never-before-met auntie, little boy table brother who'd come to see her within the first few days without even knowing she existed, an honored guest from afar...
In that moment this world didn't seem so scary anymore.
Molin Yiqing stopped being so tense; her shoulders relaxed down, expressing sincere gratitude: "Table brother, please tell Auntie."
Kids sometimes were actually more sensitive than adults. They could sense both the sincerity and falseness in people.
Pingshou looked at Molin Yiqing's eyes and sensed her heartfelt appreciation.
He nodded: "Table Sister stay."
The little boy stepped away with a steady pace, not fast or slow, back to his mother's courtyard before she married, to report to his mother.
第4章 Chapter 4
Chapter 4
TITLE: The Third Young Master's Visit
BODY:
Molin Yiqing sat up in bed as she heard her father enter the room. She quickly put on a sad expression.
Old Master Molin frowned at his daughter's appearance. "Why are you still in bed? Get up and eat something."
Molin Yiqing lowered her head. "Father, I...I'm not hungry."
Old Master Molin sighed. "Your mother is dead, but life goes on. You must be strong for the family." He patted her shoulder before leaving.
Molin Yiqing let out a sigh of relief when he left. She had no idea how she was supposed to act like "Molin Yiqing" in front of him. It was too difficult.
Just then, Jameson entered the room with some food for her. "Lady Molin, you should eat something to keep up your strength."
Molin Yiqing accepted the tray from her maidservant. She pretended to eat a few bites before setting it aside.
Jameson frowned slightly. "Is something wrong? You don't seem hungry at all today."
"It's nothing." Molin Yiqing shook her head. "I'm just feeling a little...tired, that's all."
Jameson didn't press the issue further and left to give her some privacy. Molin Yiqing lay back down on the bed with a sigh. She had no idea how she was going to fool everyone in this household.
***
The next day, Pingshou came to visit again. He saw Jameson giving Molin Yiqing "the eyes" and walked over to them.
Pingshou greeted her with a bow. "Table sister."
Molin Yiqing quickly stood up and returned the bow. "It's good to see you again, Table Brother."
Pingshou nodded. "Mother sent me to check on you. She said that you haven't been eating well lately."
Molin Yiqing's eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Oh no! I'm fine, really." She forced a small smile onto her face.
Pingshou frowned slightly at this response but didn't push further about the food issue for now. Instead he asked if there was anything she needed or wanted him to do while staying here with them?
Molin Yiqing shook her head no; everything had been taken care of by Jameson already so nothing more needed doing right now.
***
Pingshou visited again on the third day, but this time Jameson wasn't around. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room and saw her sitting quietly at a table, looking out the window.
He cleared his throat to get her attention. "Table sister."
Molin Yiqing turned around to face him with a smile on her face now - no need for pretense in front of this kid who seemed more mature than most adults anyway. "It's good to see you again, Table Brother," she said softly.
Pingshou bowed deeply before speaking. "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?"
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly at him. "You're so kind, Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think of her due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The fourth day came around and Jameson was nowhere to be found again. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time Pingshou didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there. "Table brother!" She exclaimed happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The fifth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The sixth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The seventh day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The eighth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The ninth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The tenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The eleventh day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twelfth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The thirteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The fourteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The fifteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The sixteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The seventeenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The eighteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The nineteenth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twentieth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-first day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-second day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-third day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-fourth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-fifth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued speaking before Pingshou could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Pingshou nodded understandingly then said, "Alright then I'll be going back home now but please call me anytime if something comes up." He bowed one last time before leaving.
***
The twenty-sixth day came around and Jameson was still nowhere to be found. Pingshou walked into Molin Yiqing's room once more; she had been sitting at the table looking out the window just like yesterday too, but this time he didn't clear his throat first or say anything until he got closer.
He saw her smile warmly when turning around seeing him standing there again exclaiming happily now - no pretense needed here either since they were alone anyway; it felt nice having someone who seemed more mature than most adults treat her like an equal person rather than some delicate flower or fragile little girl who couldn't handle anything on their own.
Pingshou bowed deeply once again before speaking: "Mother sent me here today because she wanted me to ask if there is anything else I can do for you?" His voice was gentle yet firm; not weak at all due to being young or male or both in this society. He continued speaking before Molin Yiqing could respond further though: "But really there isn't anything else right now."
Molin Yiqing smiled warmly back at him again saying softly, "You're so kind Table brother." Her voice was gentle yet firm; not weak like some people might think due to being young or female or both in this society. She continued
第5章 Chapter 5
Old Master Molin sat in his study, brooding over a problem that had been weighing on his mind for days. His favorite concubine, Concubine Yan, had recently passed away, leaving behind a young daughter named Molin Yiqing.
The Old Master had always been fond of Concubine Yan and felt a deep sense of loss at her passing. However, he knew that he had to be strong for his family and focus on the more pressing matters at hand - his daughter's upcoming visit from Mistress Four.
He sighed deeply and rubbed his temples in frustration. How could he possibly explain this situation to his daughter without revealing the truth about Concubine Yan's death? The Old Master knew that he had to find a solution quickly, or else risk damaging his family's reputation.
Just then, there was a knock at the door. "Come in," he called out gruffly.
The door opened and Third Young Master Molin entered the room. He looked tired and haggard, as if he hadn't slept for days. "Father," he said with a bow, "I have something important to discuss with you."
Old Master Molin raised an eyebrow. "What is it?" he asked curtly.
Third Young Master Molin hesitated for a moment before speaking. "It's about Yiqing," he began nervously.
"What about her?" Old Master Molin snapped. "She's just a silly girl, nothing more. You're the only one who seems to care about her."
"No, Father!" Third Young Master Molin insisted. "Yiqing is special! She has a kind heart and is very smart. I think she would make an excellent wife for you."
Old Master Molin scoffed at his son's suggestion. "Don't be ridiculous," he said harshly. "I am her father, not her husband!"
"But Father-" Third Young Master Molin tried to argue further.
"Enough!" Old Master Molin shouted, slamming his fist on the table. "You are a disgrace! I will not allow you to insult your mother's memory by suggesting such an absurd thing."
Third Young Master Molin hung his head in shame and left the room without another word.
Old Master Molin sighed deeply once again. What would he do now? How could he possibly explain this situation to Mistress Four when she arrived?
He knew that he had no choice but to tell her the truth - that Concubine Yan had died because of an accident caused by Third Young Master Molin's negligence.
But what if his daughter didn't believe him? What if she thought that he was lying to protect himself?
Old Master Molin sat alone in his study, brooding over the problem that seemed to have no solution.
第6章 Chapter 6
Molin Yiqing sat alone in his study, brooding over the problem that had been weighing on his mind for days. His mother, Concubine Yan, had recently passed away, leaving behind a young daughter named Molin Yiqing.
The Old Master had always been fond of Concubine Yan and felt a deep sense of loss at her passing. However, he knew that he had to be strong for his family and focus on the more pressing matters at hand - Mistress Four's upcoming visit.
He sighed deeply and rubbed his temples in frustration. How could he possibly explain this situation to Mistress Four without revealing the truth about Concubine Yan's death? The Old Master knew that he had to find a solution quickly, or else risk damaging his family's reputation.
Just then, there was a knock at the door. "Come in," he called out gruffly.
The door opened and Third Young Master Molin entered the room. He looked tired and haggard, as if he hadn't slept for days. "Father," he said with a bow, "I have something important to discuss with you."
Old Master Molin raised an eyebrow. "What is it?" he asked curtly.
Third Young Master Molin hesitated for a moment before speaking. "It's about Yiqing," he began nervously.
"What about her?" Old Master Molin snapped. "She's just a silly girl, nothing more. You're the only one who seems to care about her."
"No, Father!" Third Young Master Molin insisted. "Yiqing is special! She has a kind heart and is very smart. I think she would make an excellent wife for you."
Old Master Molin scoffed at his son's suggestion. "Don't be ridiculous," he said harshly. "I am her father, not her husband!"
"But Father-" Third Young Master Molin tried to argue further.
"Enough!" Old Master Molin shouted, slamming his fist on the table. "You are a disgrace! I will not allow you to insult your mother's memory by suggesting such an absurd thing."
Third Young Master Molin hung his head in shame and left the room without another word.
Old Master Molin sighed deeply once again. What would he do now? How could he possibly explain this situation to Mistress Four when she arrived?
He knew that he had no choice but to tell her the truth - that Concubine Yan had died because of an accident caused by Third Young Master Molin's negligence.
But what if his daughter didn't believe him? What if she thought that he was lying to protect himself?
Old Master Molin sat alone in his study, brooding over the problem that seemed to have no solution.
***
The evening arrived. Four Old Mistress summoned Yiqing to her chambers and said, "It's all arranged. How long do you plan on staying there?"
Yiqing concealed her excitement and replied, "I want to stay for a year."
Four Old Mistress had sons herself, so she didn't care much about a concubine's daughter. If Yiqing wanted to stay, that was fine by her, as it would bring some good name for the family.
She agreed and said, "Then have your room packed up. No need to take all four seasons of clothes at once; it's too heavy. Just pack what you're currently wearing. When it changes season, we'll send more stuff over. Pick out who among your servants will stay and who will leave? You're not a child anymore; it's time you learned how to handle things yourself."
Yiqing suppressed her joy and maintained her lifeless expression. Speaking slowly, she said, "Just... just Yiqing and Mama Yee."
Four Old Mistress said, "That maid of yours who runs errands? She can't do much. You need an older girl at least."
Yiqing had already been told by the maids about this era's custom: a concubine's daughter would be given one year to mourn her mother. Originally, she wanted to leave all four servants behind in the manor so that when they reunited after a year, Yiqing could pretend she was different - that's how people change anyway! Unfortunately, Four Old Mistress wouldn't allow it.
She had no choice but to select someone with less threat: "Then have Little Jade go instead. Yee will be guarding the courtyard."
Four Old Mistress approved of this decision.
But Yiqing didn't want Mama Yee or any of her other servants to come along either; they were all too young and inexperienced, so someone more reliable needed to watch over them.
Yiqing's wet nurse was also unlucky; she died before being able to enjoy the prosperity that came with raising a child like Yiqing.
Back then when Acquiescent Lady's body wasn't as bad off yet, she wanted desperately close contact with her daughter and pleaded Four Old Mistress. Four Old Mistress didn't care about the concubine girl either; thus she agreed to let Acquiescent Lady personally take care of Yiqing.
Who would have guessed that Acquiescent Lady would also die? This led to there being no one around now who could look after Yiqing anymore.
Three Old Mistress then thought about assigning someone from her own courtyard, at least temporarily until a year had passed.
"I've been thinking... I don't have anyone suitable in my courtyard... Oh yeah! Suan Hall's wife would be good. She's quite reliable; she's just sitting around the house idly anyway - let her go with you."
It was clear that it wasn't easy for them to spare any of their own servants, so they simply picked out someone who was not needed at all.
Yiqing bowed her head: "Thank you, Mother."
At least here they used terms like "mother", "father", and "papa". Since these weren't terms from the original timeline, it made using them much easier than if they had been required to say "Dad" or "Mom".
This was just acting after all.
On their way back home, Yiqing instructed everyone to start packing up.
When they heard that this trip would last a year instead of ten days or half months like usual vacations did, no one was very enthusiastic about going except for Suan Hall's wife; everyone else dreaded it because such an extended period away from their homes meant suffering rather than enjoyment for them all.
The only exception might be Yee who didn't have to go since she had been left behind as caretaker of the courtyard. She could lock herself away in there and sleep till sunrise without anyone bothering her every morning, not to mention that when nobody else was around, she even got to sneak into Yiqing's bed made out of zitan wood!
Yiqing sighed both happily and sadly; at least this time around she hadn't reincarnated as a slave girl like those others who had no freedom whatsoever - they weren't allowed even simple things such as quitting their jobs! Slaves were bound by contracts that stated everything from their lives to their future children belonged solely to the master's household.
"Don't forget the money box," she reminded them before assigning roles: "Yee will stay back home guarding the courtyard; the key should be given first to Jade since she'll be staying behind." Yiqing continued giving out instructions on who would go where and who would stay behind until everything was settled according to her plans.
"You can't leave without me," Suan Hall's wife protested when Yiqing tried assigning her somewhere else too. "What if I need money? Remember what happened last time!"
Yiqing had already anticipated this issue before leaving; she knew how important it was not only for herself but also for everyone else involved in this journey: "Fine then, keep track of all spending carefully so there won't be any misunderstandings later on."
Suan Hall's wife nodded obediently.
The entire Molin family focused their attention solely on welcoming back the newly returned Pнн family from the capital city. No one paid much mind to a concubine's death in another household except for Yiqing herself, who wore mourning clothes and quietly left with her servants.
***
Molin Yiqing sat alone in her study, brooding over the problem that seemed to have no solution.
第7章 Chapter 7
Chapter 7
Molin Yiqing sat alone in her study, brooding over the problem that seemed to have no solution. She had come up with various ways to make money during her time here, but none were suitable for a girl like herself.
The only thing she could think of was selling off some of the jewelry and treasures left behind by Concubine Yan. However, this idea was quickly dismissed as well; if anyone found out about it then they would surely blame her for being greedy rather than doing something proper with those items to honor her late mother.
Molin Yiqing sighed deeply before heading back upstairs where she found Third Young Master Molin waiting outside the door to his room. He seemed anxious and asked, "Is everything alright?"
"Yes," Yiqing replied softly while trying to maintain her composure despite feeling extremely nervous at that moment due to being caught off guard by him suddenly appearing there without warning or knocking first like most people would have done when visiting someone else's private space.
Molin Yiqing stood up straight away so as not show any weakness in front of the man who had caused so much grief for herself and her family members throughout these past years since Concubine Yan passed away. She took a deep breath then answered him calmly, "Everything is fine here; I was just thinking about something else."
"What were you thinking?" Third Young Master Molin asked curiously while looking at Yiqing closely with an expression of concern on his face.
"Just some personal matters," Yiqing responded vaguely before changing the subject by asking what brought him there so late at night when everyone else should be asleep already. "It's quite late; why haven't you gone to bed yet?"
Third Young Master Molin seemed embarrassed but tried not showing it too much: "I... I couldn't sleep well tonight so decided to come check on you."
Yiqing was taken aback by his answer but quickly hid her surprise behind a neutral face as she replied, "Oh... okay then." She paused for a moment before continuing, "Well if there's nothing else then goodnight."
Third Young Master Molin nodded and said goodbye before leaving quietly.
Molin Yiqing closed the door slowly behind him while wondering what exactly he meant by saying that he couldn't sleep well tonight. Was something bothering him or was it just because of his wife who had died recently?
She shook her head trying not think too much about those questions since they weren't relevant to her situation right now anyway; she needed a way out from this place fast!
第8章 Chapter 8
Chapter 8: The Temple
Molin Yiqing sat alone in her study, brooding over the problem that seemed to have no solution. She had come up with various ways to make money during her time here, but none were suitable for a girl like herself.
The only thing she could think of was selling off some of the jewelry and treasures left behind by Concubine Yan. However, this idea was quickly dismissed as well; if anyone found out about it then they would surely blame her for being greedy rather than doing something proper with those items to honor her late mother.
Molin Yiqing sighed deeply before heading back upstairs where she found Third Young Master Molin waiting outside the door to his room. He seemed anxious and asked, "Is everything alright?"
"Yes," Yiqing replied softly while trying to maintain her composure despite feeling extremely nervous at that moment due to being caught off guard by him suddenly appearing there without warning or knocking first like most people would have done when visiting someone else's private space.
Molin Yiqing stood up straight away so as not show any weakness in front of the man who had caused so much grief for herself and her family members throughout these past years since Concubine Yan passed away. She took a deep breath then answered him calmly, "Everything is fine here; I was just thinking about something else."
"What were you thinking?" Third Young Master Molin asked curiously while looking at Yiqing closely with an expression of concern on his face.
"Just some personal matters," Yiqing responded vaguely before changing the subject by asking what brought him there so late at night when everyone else should be asleep already. "It's quite late; why haven't you gone to bed yet?"
Third Young Master Molin seemed embarrassed but tried not showing it too much: "I... I couldn't sleep well tonight so decided to come check on you."
Yiqing was taken aback by his answer but quickly hid her surprise behind a neutral face as she replied, "Oh... okay then." She paused for a moment before continuing, "Well if there's nothing else then goodnight."
Third Young Master Molin nodded and said goodbye before leaving quietly.
Molin Yiqing closed the door slowly behind him while wondering what exactly he meant by saying that he couldn't sleep well tonight. Was something bothering him or was it just because of his wife who had died recently?
She shook her head trying not think too much about those questions since they weren't relevant to her situation right now anyway; she needed a way out from this place fast!
***
The next morning, Old Master Molin gathered all the household members together in front of him. He announced gravely, "Concubine Yan is dead."
Everyone gasped in shock and sadness at this news while looking around confusedly at one another.
Molin Yiqing lowered her head sadly as she listened to her father speak about how her mother had died due to an accident caused by Third Young Master Molin's negligence. She knew it was true even though nobody else seemed aware of the fact that he was responsible for Concubine Yan’s death because they all thought that he cared deeply about his wife and children when in reality, he only cared about himself.
Third Young Master Molin hung his head shamefully as everyone stared at him accusingly after hearing Old Master Molin's words.
Chapter 8 source:
Again using the pretext of examining Cloud Swallow to ask questions all day long. In fact, she was quietly familiarizing herself with the people and rules in this household.
She also painted a picture for Cloud Swallow: "When Jade Swallow gets married someday, I'll bring you into the house as her maid, then your monthly pay will be higher."
The little maid all dreamed of becoming a senior maid, getting a raise, and when she got married in the future, she could also choose a better-looking man. Cloud Swallow was very grateful for this opportunity to serve Mistress Molin, doing everything carefully, serving Mistress Molin comfortably.
Grandma Li and the villagers at the foot of the mountain became familiar with each other quickly. They no longer needed Grandma Li to personally go down the mountain to buy vegetables; they had agreed that the villagers would send them up specially.
The water here was sweet and refreshing, even better than the water Mistress Molin drank in the mansion. Sure enough, it was spring water.
From the door of the courtyard, walk a short distance, halfway up the mountain is an observation pavilion with a pavilion. Sit there, and the breeze blows gently, all around is green. After breakfast every morning, Mistress Molin would take her maids out for a walk on the mountain to exercise her body.
As long as she could overcome the guilt of using child labor, this little life wasn't bad at all.
But after so many days of this uneventful life, she also felt bored. There was simply too little entertainment here. In the end, Mistress Molin finally remembered that there were lessons in this temple.
She decided to go listen to the lesson.
It turned out to be quite interesting.
Because this lesson wasn't for the monks; it was specially prepared for people like her who paid money to stay in the temple and worship or mourn. Of course, Mistress Molin understood that this was because they wanted these gold masters to believe more in Buddhist teachings so that they would donate more incense money, but the monk who gave the lesson still had some skill; listening wouldn't make people feel dry.
Especially for someone like her who had already rolled once before and later even escaped from the big city, there were many sighs of lamentation when she listened to it.
Mistress Molin then continued to come every day to listen to the early lesson.
She didn't know that this way of passing the time on her part had caught someone else's attention.
The head monk who gave the lesson told the abbot: "That girl from the Molin family who came here to mourn her concubine mother seems to have some wisdom."
That was certain; although she looked like a little girl, her soul was an adult's, of course she could understand. But in the eyes of the monks, it was just that this little girl "had wisdom".
And on the other side, the other ladies who came here to worship and listen also inquired: "Whose daughter is that? Such a young child yet can sit so steadily, truly rare."
After finding out she had come to mourn her mother, they sighed even more: "She's a good girl."
Then someone sent their maid or nanny to this side with some food and fruit. They didn't give anything expensive; it was just something to eat.
Mistress Molin didn't expect that living in the temple also required socializing. If someone sent something over, not giving back would be impolite no matter what time period you were in.
She scratched her head and told Grandma Li to go find Addicted Monk: "I see there are some nice flower pots in the front hall's courtyard. Ask him if he has any prettier ones for sale. Give me one so I can transplant that flower I dug up from the back mountain into it, as a return gift."
Grandma Li didn't recognize a single character, was also without culture and knowledge, saying: "What's good about a wildflower from the mountain?"
That wasn't something you could just casually dig up.
Mistress Molin said: "You only need to go buy one."
Mistress Molin spent most of her daily time besides listening to lectures borrowing some Buddhist scriptures and story books from the monks to read.
She also often walked around this mountain.
Coming to East Forest Temple, she had deliberately let Cloud Swallow slack off, only letting Jade Swallow serve by her side, Grandma Li was a stranger who didn't know much about her, so she could relax a bit and be herself. Walk in the mountains, see any good flowers and grasses along the way, dig them back to plant in the courtyard.
Before, with the accumulated savings after leaving that big city behind, she had chosen a small place and opened a flower shop for a living.
Not a professional, relying on herself to learn from scratch, stumbling and paying many tuition fees, walked many detours before finally managing not to lose money. At least she didn't incur any losses.
The fourth young lady only needed to do things properly and not make mistakes; tending to some flowers was a good thing. Grandma Li also didn't interfere much. She just watched her tend to them now and then, prune branches, water, or sprinkle some grass ash, those few wildflowers grew even better, and Grandma Li couldn't help but exclaim.
This time she wanted to use those free flowers as a return gift. Grandma Li thought for a while; indeed, she was just a little girl, and her hands were empty of anything decent. Sending flowers would do.
Grandma Li went to find Addicted Monk and got back a celadon-blue-and-white porcelain flowerpot.
Mistress Molin saw it and said happily: "This one is good."
She chose the flower with the most flower buds to move into this pot, then picked out some round, smooth pebbles from the mountain stream to press down the soil, and trimmed a few branches as well.
Grandma Li was shocked: "There's actually some shape to it now."
Mistress Molin had just finished and let Grandma Li take it over. Grandma Li went all the way for half an incense stick of time before coming back.
Mistress Molin asked curiously: "Why so long?"
Grandma Li beamed with light on her face, saying: "That lady was very happy, and also invited another lady to come admire it together."
Of course she couldn't answer what they talked about. Only brag that one of them was an official's wife.
The official wasn't a position; the official was a rank. From the scholar's degree to the jinshi, from the jinshi to the zhuangyuan, this zhuangyuan was a high ranking title. Although it wasn't an official position, after becoming a zhuangyuan you could start working as an official. This "official wife" was probably the wife of some official.
But she didn't say what position her husband held; it seemed she didn't want to say. Actually, Mistress Molin didn't think there was anything special about this second young lady who had only become a zhuangyuan scholar.
But Grandma Li's expression made it clear that the "official" was something extraordinary in this era.
Mistress Molin sighed; she hadn't expected to have to socialize when living in the temple. She just wanted to live out her days quietly, but if someone sent something over, not giving back would be impolite no matter what time period you were in.
So she scratched her head and told Grandma Li to go find Addicted Monk: "I see there are some nice flowerpots in the front hall's courtyard. Ask him if he has any prettier ones for sale. Give me one so I can transplant that flower I dug up from the back mountain into it, as a return gift."
Grandma Li didn't recognize a single character, was also without culture and knowledge, saying: "What's good about a wildflower from the mountain?"
That wasn't something you could just casually dig up.
Mistress Molin said: "You only need to go buy one."
Mistress Molin spent most of her daily time besides listening to lectures borrowing some Buddhist scriptures and story books from the monks to read.
She also often walked around this mountain.
Coming to East Forest Temple, she had deliberately let Cloud Swallow slack off, only letting Jade Swallow serve by her side, Grandma Li was a stranger who didn't know much about her, so she could relax a bit and be herself. Walk in the mountains, see any good flowers and grasses along the way, dig them back to plant in the courtyard.
Before, with the accumulated savings after leaving that big city behind, she had chosen a small place and opened a flower shop for a living.
Not a professional, relying on herself to learn from scratch, stumbling and paying many tuition fees, walked many detours before finally managing not to lose money. At least she didn't incur any losses.
The fourth young lady only needed to do things properly and not make mistakes; tending to some flowers was a good thing. Grandma Li also didn't interfere much. She just watched her tend to them now and then, prune branches, water, or sprinkle some grass ash, those few wildflowers grew even better, and Grandma Li couldn't help but exclaim.
This time she wanted to use those free flowers as a return gift. Grandma Li thought for a while; indeed, she was just a little girl, and her hands were empty of anything decent. Sending flowers would do.
Grandma Li went to find Addicted Monk and got back a celadon-blue-and-white porcelain flowerpot.
Mistress Molin saw it and said happily: "This one is good."
She chose the flower with the most flower buds to move into this pot, then picked out some round, smooth pebbles from the mountain stream to press down the soil, and trimmed a few branches as well.
Grandma Li was shocked: "There's actually some shape to it now."
Mistress Molin had just finished and let Grandma Li take it over. Grandma Li went all the way for half an incense stick of time before coming back.
Mistress Molin asked curiously: "Why so long?"
Grandma Li beamed with light on her face, saying: "That lady was very happy, and also invited another lady to come admire it together."
Of course she couldn't answer what they talked about. Only brag that one of them was an official's wife.
The official wasn't a position; the official was a rank. From the scholar's degree to the jinshi, from the jinshi to the zhuangyuan, this zhuangyuan was a high ranking title. Although it wasn't an official position, after becoming a zhuangyuan you could start working as an official. This "official wife" was probably the wife of some official.
But she didn't say what position her husband held; it seemed she didn't want to say. Actually, Mistress Molin didn't think there was anything special about this second young lady who had only become a zhuangyuan scholar.
But Grandma Li's expression made it clear that the "official" was something extraordinary in this era.
Mistress Molin sighed; she hadn't expected to have to socialize when living in the temple. She just wanted to live out her days quietly, but if someone sent something over, not giving back would be impolite no matter what time period you were in.
So she scratched her head and told Grandma Li to go find Addicted Monk: "I see there are some nice flowerpots in the front hall's courtyard. Ask him if he has any prettier ones for sale. Give me one so I can transplant that flower I dug up from the back mountain into it, as a return gift."
Grandma Li didn't recognize a single character, was also without culture and knowledge, saying: "What's good about a wildflower from the mountain?"
That wasn't something you could just casually dig up.
Mistress Molin said: "You only need to go buy one."
Mistress Molin spent most of her daily time besides listening to lectures borrowing some Buddhist scriptures and story books from the monks to read.
She also often walked around this mountain.
Coming to East Forest Temple, she had deliberately let Cloud Swallow slack off, only letting Jade Swallow serve by her side, Grandma Li was a stranger who didn't know much about her, so she could relax a bit and be herself. Walk in the mountains, see any good flowers and grasses along the way, dig them back to plant in the courtyard.
Before, with the accumulated savings after leaving that big city behind, she had chosen a small place and opened a flower shop for a living.
Not a professional, relying on herself to learn from scratch, stumbling and paying many tuition fees, walked many detours before finally managing not to lose money. At least she didn't incur any losses.
The fourth young lady only needed to do things properly and not make mistakes; tending to some flowers was a good thing. Grandma Li also didn't interfere much. She just watched her tend to them now and then, prune branches, water, or sprinkle some grass ash, those few wildflowers grew even better, and Grandma Li couldn't help but exclaim.
This time she wanted to use those free flowers as a return gift. Grandma Li thought for a while; indeed, she was just a little girl, and her hands were empty of anything decent. Sending flowers would do.
Grandma Li went to find Addicted Monk and got back a celadon-blue-and-white porcelain flowerpot.
Mistress Molin saw it and said happily: "This one is good."
She chose the flower with the most flower buds to move into this pot, then picked out some round, smooth pebbles from the mountain stream to press down the soil, and trimmed a few branches as well.
Grandma Li was shocked: "There's actually some shape to it now."
Mistress Molin had just finished and let Grandma Li take it over. Grandma Li went all the way for half an incense stick of time before coming back.
Mistress Molin asked curiously: "Why so long?"
Grandma Li beamed with light on her face, saying: "That lady was very happy, and also invited another lady to come admire it together."
Of course she couldn't answer what they talked about. Only brag that one of them was an official's wife.
The official wasn't a position; the official was a rank. From the scholar's degree to the jinshi, from the jinshi to the zhuangyuan, this zhuangyuan was a high ranking title. Although it wasn't an official position, after becoming a zhuangyuan you could start working as an official. This "official wife" was probably the wife of some official.
But she didn't say what position her husband held; it seemed she didn't want to say. Actually, Mistress Molin didn't think there was anything special about this second young lady who had only become a zhuangyuan scholar.
But Grandma Li's expression made it clear that the "official" was something extraordinary in this era.
Mistress Molin sighed; she hadn't expected to have to socialize when living in the temple. She just wanted to live out her days quietly, but if someone sent something over, not giving back would be impolite no matter what time period you were in.
So she scratched her head and told Grandma Li to go find Addicted Monk: "I see there are some nice flowerpots in the front hall's courtyard. Ask him if he has any prettier ones for sale. Give me one so I can transplant that flower I dug up from the back mountain into it, as a return gift."
Grandma Li didn't recognize a single character, was also without culture and knowledge, saying: "What's good about a wildflower from the mountain?"
That wasn't something you could just casually dig up.
Mistress Molin said: "You only need to go buy one."
第9章 Chapter 9
Chapter 9: The Recorded Disciple
Because she had returned home as an honored guest, even her mother-in-law could not treat her like before. Not only that, but with her father and sister-in-law backing her up, she felt more relaxed at home than when she was a maiden.
But the vacation time for new scholars was limited, and in the end, the home was just the home. She was still Pннг Madame at her own house.
She shed tears as she bid farewell to her father and brother-in-law before boarding the ship back to the capital with her son, Pйн Chуn Dдng.
There was also another lady named Zhaо Madame who had come from the capital; she was returning to fulfill a vow for her mother-in-law. The two of them were already acquainted in the capital, and since Madame Pйн had returned earlier, Madame Zhaо knew about it. When Madame Zhao also arrived, she informed her. The two madames just happened to travel back together.
This day, the ship stopped at a certain port to replenish supplies, and Madame Zhao sent someone over to invite Madame Pйn onto her boat.
“Our Madame received a good flower; she specially invited Madame to enjoy it.”
A journey was most afraid of being boring, so Madame Pйн readily agreed to the invitation. She went over to Madame Zhaо's boat and patted Madame Zhao on the arm, scolding: “You specially called me over just for this? What a grand gesture! I thought it would be some rare flower. It’s just jade curtains? Just that? Where is the flower, did you call me here to look at the flower bud?”
Madame Zhaо smiled: “You only need to say if she was raised well or not.”
Madame Pйn examined it carefully; although it was just an ordinary jade curtain, it had been raised with lush stems and leaves and plump flower buds. She nodded approvingly: “She really is raised very well. Who did you prepare this for? Your mother-in-law? You sure are thoughtful.”
Madame Zhaо's family in both her husband’s and her parents’ homes were from Hugui, while Madame Pйn's family was from Hugui; because of this connection, Madame Pйn often interacted with Madame Zhao in the capital and knew about her situation very well.
“But it wasn’t intentional. It really was just a coincidence.” Madame Zhaо said, “My mother-in-law went to stay at East Forest Temple for a few days with my sister-in-law; she liked the little girl for being cute, so she had someone send some snacks over. The little girl was extremely polite and sent this flower pot as a return gift.”
“I was just thinking about what to bring back to solve my mother-in-law’s homesickness when suddenly my sister-in-law called me over to admire the flowers. I took one look and thought: Good jade curtains. You say that wasn’t intentional. Just before I left for the capital, my mother-in-law also mentioned her old courtyard wall's jade curtains.”
“Just right. When I told my sister-in-law about this, she gave me this flower pot right away. Look at these buds and the new ones just coming out; they should be able to bloom a round on the way, and by the time we get to the capital, there should still be another round of blooms.”
Madame Pйn smiled: “What good luck you have; it’s your turn now.”
Madame Zhaо suddenly remembered: “Oh yes, that little girl said she was named Mлн. I don’t know if she's related to your family, which branch or line? The little girl looked soft and weak, but my sister-in-law said every day when the head monk gave his morning lecture, she listened without hurry or impatience. She looks like she’s only seven or eight years old; at that age, all of my kids were monkey-like, if they could be this calm like your son Xуn Gуo, I'd also be happy.”
Madame Pйn was about to say “I also don’t know” when suddenly remembered the niece who wasn't even supposed to have met yet?
She had come back home to see so many relatives and nephews and nieces; there were even nephews-in-law and nephews' children. This niece whom she hadn't even had a chance to meet was almost forgotten.
It couldn’t be her, could it?
After asking around, it turned out to be the one guarding filial piety for her birth mother who was an concubine.
“It’s my niece.” Madame Pйн exclaimed in surprise. “I didn’t even get a chance to see her, and you just happened to meet her.”
Madame Zhaо slapped her thigh: “If I had known it was your own niece, I should have been more caring. That child goes every day after listening to the scripture to walk away; not once did she ever play or frolic around, so me and my sister-in-law never got a chance to catch even once of her. What a pity.”
Madame Pйn returned to her own boat, where Pйn Chуn Dдng was reading. He put down the book and asked: “How were the flowers Madame Zhao invited you over to see?”
“Where would there be flowers? There wasn’t even one; she just wanted me to go over for a chat.” Madame Pйn smiled. “Only this thing, you’d never guess how fortuitous it was.”
Then she told Pйn Chуn Dдng about the shallow connection between Madame Zhaо and Mлн Yи.
Pйn Chуn Dдng was also somewhat surprised but nodded: “This sounds like Table Aunt indeed.”
Madame Pйn smiled: “You say it like you’re very familiar with her, but you’ve only met her once.”
Pйn Chуn Dдng solemnly stated: “White head and new hairpin; old friend and new acquaintance.”
第10章 Chapter 10
I was sitting on the couch, eating a bowl of ice cream and watching TV when my phone rang. I picked it up without looking at the caller ID.
"Hello?"
"Is this Mark?" said a female voice.
"Yes, who's calling?"
"It's Jenny. Do you remember me?"
*Jenny?* "Yeah, sure! How are you doing? It's been what... five years since we graduated high school?"
"Six actually," she said with a small laugh. "But who's counting? Listen, I'm in town for the weekend and was wondering if you'd like to catch up."
I thought for a moment before responding. It would be nice to see an old friend, but at the same time, we hadn't kept in touch since graduation.
"That sounds great," I said finally. "What did you have in mind?"
"I don't know... maybe we could grab some coffee or something?" she suggested hesitantly.
I was surprised that she seemed nervous about this. She'd always been so confident back in high school, but then again, a lot can change over the course of six years.
"Sure thing! There's a place down on Main Street called 'The Bean' if you want to meet there in an hour."
"That sounds perfect," Jenny replied excitedly. "I'll see you then!"
We hung up and I went back to my ice cream, trying not to think about how strange this was going to be.
\~
When I arrived at the coffee shop a little early, I spotted her right away. She looked just like she had in high school - blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail, blue eyes shining with excitement behind her glasses. But there were some subtle changes too: her face seemed softer somehow, more mature.
I walked over and sat down across from her at the small table near the window. "Hey there!" I said cheerfully as she looked up at me with surprise on her face.
"Mark! It's so good to see you again," Jenny responded warmly as we hugged briefly before sitting back down. "It feels like just yesterday that we were graduating together."
We chatted for a while about our lives since graduation - what colleges we went to, what jobs we got after graduation, whether or not either of us had found 'the one'. It was nice catching up with an old friend.
After a couple hours passed by quickly, we decided it would be good idea to grab something quick before heading out for the evening. As we walked down Main Street together towards The Bean again, Jenny suddenly stopped and turned towards me.
"Mark?" she said softly as if unsure whether or not she should say what was on her mind next. "I...um...well..." She paused for a moment longer before continuing quietly but firmly: "I still have feelings for you."
My heart skipped a beat at those words, remembering how much I'd liked Jenny back then too - but never acted on it because of my fear of rejection from such an amazing girl. It was clear now though that she had felt the same way about me all along!
"Jenny..." I started hesitantly as emotions swelled up within me. "I...I feel the exact same way! I've always had a crush on you but never knew how to tell you."
She smiled brightly at hearing this revelation from me and then reached out slowly until her hand was holding mine tightly within its grip.
"Then why don't we do something about it now?" she suggested playfully as we both laughed nervously in anticipation of what might happen next between us...
\~
As the sun began to set, I took Jenny's hand and led her to my car. We drove down Main Street towards our old high school - it looked just like it had when we were kids: brick buildings with ivy climbing up their walls; trees lined along the sidewalks; people walking by carrying books or bags of groceries.
I pulled into the parking lot and turned off the engine, then looked over at Jenny. "You know what this place needs?" I asked her teasingly. "A little more excitement."
She laughed as we got out of the car together before walking over to one of those old metal bleachers under a big oak tree nearby - perfect for watching games from years past or sneaking kisses during lunch break when no one was paying attention...
As soon as we sat down on the cold metal surface, I reached over and gently took her hand in mine again. She smiled softly at me before leaning closer until our faces were only inches apart.
"Mark..." she whispered quietly. "I don't want to waste any more time being afraid of what could happen between us."
With that said, she closed the distance between us by closing her eyes and pressing her lips against mine tenderly as I wrapped my arms around her waist tightly, pulling her closer still until we were practically one entity together.
We kissed deeply under the starlit sky above us - lost in our own world filled with excitement at finally being able to express how much we had always cared for each other without fear holding us back anymore...
第11章 Chapter 11
"Sorry, I'm not sure what you're asking." *He replied apologetically.* "Could you please clarify for me?"
"I mean," *she said,* "I need a favor from you. Do you think you could help me out?"
*He frowned slightly at her request, unsure of what exactly she was asking for.* "Well, sure... I'd be happy to help out in any way that I can."
"Great!" *She exclaimed with excitement,* "I need a fake boyfriend."
*A surprised look crossed his face as he stared back at her blankly, unsure if he had heard correctly or not.* "What?"
"Yes, you heard me right," *she said confidently.* "I need someone to pose as my boyfriend for an event."
*He was stunned by her request but quickly regained his composure. He knew this girl had a reputation around campus and now it seemed that she lived up to it.*
"You're joking?"
"Nope," *she replied with a grin,* "and I've chosen you."
"But... why me?"
"Because you're cute, and you seem like the kind of guy who can keep a secret. Plus, this will be easy money for both of us."
*He paused to consider her words before responding.* "Okay then..." *he said slowly,* "I'll help you out with your little scheme."
"And I'm sure that there's no hard feelings between us," *she added.*
"None at all. Let's get this done and over with so we can move on from here."
"Perfect!" *She clapped her hands together excitedly.* "Now let me give you a rundown of what exactly needs to be done..."
第12章 Chapter 12
Gǎo Quèi Dà Dà De Shǒng Yī Gè Gōng Qì.
Shì Guān Tā De Yuè Qián, Tā Cǐng Bù Xǔ Zì Jǐe, Dàn Sūn Mǔmǎ Shì Sān Fū Rén De Xīn Mǔmǎ, Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo Nǚhái Yě Pà De Wǎn Zài Tā.
Zuòguò Gǎo Quèi Dà Dà De Yì Qǐng, Chén Mèi Zhǐ Fēng Dōu Hǎi Shàng De Mò Xiǎn Sùn Lín Bǔ Rù.
Zài Wǒ De Yǎn Liàn, Zhe Jǐe Nèi Suì Shì Yě Duì Wǒ Zuò Zēng Dè Zhōu Biān Hēnduò Nà Mèi Qù De.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
Tā Xiǎo Xiǎo MǬ Bù Míng Bái Tā, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá, Sùn Lín Bù Míng Bái Tá. Yě Shì Wǒ Zài Wǔ Duì Nà Mèi Qù Dè Zhōu Biān.
```
第13章 Chapter 13
Chapter 13: The Household's Prosperity
In truth, for Xing'er herself, life had entered into a state of unprecedented stability and satisfaction.
Although the servants might occasionally harbor some small thoughts, the Three Lady had three sons sitting firmly behind her. She was generous with the bedchamber maids.
Spring fruits and summer ice, autumn tonics and winter coal; nothing lacked in Xing'er's household.
Closing the courtyard door meant it was only family inside. It was a peaceful and comfortable feeling.
Xing'er even managed to help their family reserve a courtyard at Donglin Temple for Buddha's Birthday.
Normally this would be the eldest son's affair. It wasn't uncommon that on such days, one couldn't book a courtyard at Donglin Temple. The Old Lady meant that if it could be booked, of course that was good; but if not, there was no helping it either.
The Xing family may have been rich, but there were plenty more people around with both money and status. At this time, silver couldn't do the trick anymore.
But the Old Lady came to worship Buddha, everyone knew she was saying it didn't matter even though her heart must be hoping for one to be booked as well. She just didn't want to make things difficult for her son.
Just like every year before, of course this year's Buddha's Birthday day passed without the eldest son being able to book a courtyard either. The Old Lady said it was fine on her mouth but had disappointment in her eyes.
Who would have thought that the Third House suddenly stood up and said they had booked one through connections.
Even though it was shared with another family, the Old Lady also happily praised the Three Lady like never before for once.
The Third Lady unusually appeared proper in front of the Old Madame, feeling proud and accomplished.
Coming back home she had someone call Xing'er to her side and praise her well — this time they were able to get in thanks to Xing'er's master.
Xing'er was extremely modest: "To be filial to mother and grandmother is what one should do. I dare not claim credit. But I fear that I boasted too much to my master..."
"You can rest assured." The Three Lady smiled slightly and stretched out a few fingers, "This year's oil money for the temple, Grandmother gave this amount."
Whoa.
Xing'er revealed a smile on her face but still continued to ask: "Then what about my master..."
The Three Lady teased with a laugh: "Look at you worry so much."
"You put your heart at ease. This is something adults should worry about; I'm here, aren't I?" The Three Lady passed her a note, "Here, this is all for your master."
Who said monks had left behind the dusty world? In some timespace, monks were actually a profession, even with permanent positions.
Xing'er quickly scanned through this list of gifts, then completely put her heart at ease.
The Three Lady asked: "Isn't it quite generous?"
Of course who said that once you became a monk you'd left behind the dusty world. In some timespace, monks were actually a profession, even with permanent positions.
Xing'er bowed slightly, smiling from the bottom of her heart: "Mother is far more thoughtful than I, she actually prepared such an elaborate gift. Master will definitely be happy to see it."
The Three Lady used her hand to point at Xing'er in midair and said to Auntie: "Look at her, now she's closer with her master than us."
Auntie laughed obligingly.
Xing'er didn't bother trying to put on an eight-sided mirror-like act in front of the Three Lady either. It was easier just to smile stupidly.
Spring passed into summer, and summer into autumn. Then once the braziers were lit and the silver fox fur-lined silk winter robes were put on, another year had gone by.
This timespace's people talked about longevity only after flipping the new year.
Sure enough, skirts got shorter and shoes got smaller; little girls sprouted like plants, growing tall in stature.
The eldest cousin among those who studied together also came of age this year. All the cousins attended her coming-of-age ceremony. Then one day suddenly she was no longer coming to class anymore.
Second Mother smiled: "She's been betrothed."
Betrothal meant marriage. After marriage, it wasn't proper for girls to come attend lessons like these anymore; instead they would stay beside their own mothers and learn some practical household skills while also beginning to practice needlework in preparation for the day of marriage and meeting one's in-laws.
Actually, Huixi here was renowned far and wide for its mulberry trees, tea leaves, silk production. Many households had their bridal gowns and bedding made by professional embroiderers; the Xing family even had an embroidery workshop, so none of the girls needed to touch those big items.
Girls just hid in their own rooms doing some small pieces for future mother-in-law, uncle, cousin and other relatives.
Most importantly it was about having them settle down properly and nurture their character.
"Fourth Sister, why are you sighing?" The eldest sister asked Xing'er.
"There's nothing wrong." Xing'er rubbed her throat and stalled, "My throat is sore..."
"The spring weather is dry. Drink more water." The eldest sister said, "Mother gave me some good tea yesterday. I'll have San call some for you later."
The second sister grumbled: "Why does Mother only give it to you and not us?"
Before the eldest sister could respond, the cousin sitting at the next table covered her mouth and laughed: "You're still so young, what's there to argue with your sister about? First take care of your sister, then it's your turn; you've got several more years yet."
The eldest sister scolded back and reached out to pinch. That cousin dodged laughing.
The second sister also understood and made a scary face: "I don't argue!"
All sorts of girlish antics, innocent and lovely.
Xing'er propped her chin up smiling.
The teacher came in, the girls all quietened down.
Xing'er flipped through a few pages of the book, then raised her head to look at those sweet and pretty faces of the girls, gazed out the window at the green buds on the branches, listened attentively to the birds chirping.
Once one reached the age for the coming-of-age ceremony, they would no longer come to class. Therefore, all the girls' ages were not big.
At this age, enjoying one's carefree youth without knowing the preciousness of these moments. It'd probably only be later on that one would sigh "back then I thought it was ordinary" right?
Unlike them, Xing'er, in her second life, enjoyed and cherished every moment of this time to the utmost.
No longer needing to worry about food and clothing; this was the happiness and peace of mind only children and girls got to experience. Once grown up, there would be no more of that.
Besides daily morning and evening greetings like clockwork, there were also no other unavoidable social interactions. The Three Lady had sons so she didn't care much for the flattery of daughters; if she felt happy, she'd even give out some trinkets sometimes. Everyone stayed in their own lane.
Xing'er spent every day with those sweet girls studying and then closed her courtyard door. Rolling up her sleeves to play with flowers and grass was so relaxing and fun.
If only time could just stay here forever.
第14章 Chapter 14
Xing'er was finally about to get married, and she was a little nervous. The Three Lady came over early in the morning to give Xing'er some advice.
"Don't worry too much," the Three Lady said with a smile, "I've already taken care of everything."
Xing'er felt relieved and thanked her mother: "Thank you Mother for your kindness!"
The Three Lady laughed: "Silly girl, what are mothers for if not to take care of their children?"
Xing'er smiled happily. The Three Lady left after telling Xing'er some final words of wisdom.
Later that day, Xing'er went to the Three Lady's courtyard. Auntie came out and greeted her respectfully: "Lady Xing!"
"Good morning!" Xing'er said cheerily. She entered the room where the Three Lady was waiting for her.
"Xing'er, how are you feeling today?" the Three Lady asked warmly.
"I'm a little nervous," Xing'er admitted. "But I know Mother has prepared everything."
"Don't worry about anything," the Three Lady said kindly. "I've arranged everything perfectly. You just need to focus on being happy and enjoying your special day."
Xing'er nodded gratefully: "Thank you, Mother!"
The Three Lady smiled warmly at her daughter.
"You're welcome, dear child! Remember, today is your big day. Be joyful!" the Three Lady said encouragingly before leaving Xing'er alone to prepare herself for the wedding ceremony.
Chapter 14 in natural English:
Xing'er was finally about to get married, and she felt a bit nervous. The Three Lady came over early that morning to give her daughter some advice.
"Don't worry too much," the Three Lady said with a smile, "I've already taken care of everything."
Xing'er felt relieved and thanked her mother: "Thank you Mother for your kindness!"
The Three Lady laughed: "Silly girl, what are mothers for if not to take care of their children?"
Xing'er smiled happily. The Three Lady left after telling her daughter some final words of wisdom.
Later that day, Xing'er went to the Three Lady's courtyard. Auntie came out and greeted her respectfully: "Lady Xing!"
"Good morning!" Xing'er said cheerily. She entered the room where the Three Lady was waiting for her.
"Xing'er, how are you feeling today?" the Three Lady asked warmly.
"I'm a little nervous," Xing'er admitted. "But I know Mother has prepared everything."
"Don't worry about anything," the Three Lady said kindly. "I've arranged everything perfectly. You just need to focus on being happy and enjoying your special day."
Xing'er nodded gratefully: "Thank you, Mother!"
The Three Lady smiled warmly at her daughter.
"You're welcome, dear child! Remember, today is your big day. Be joyful!" the Three Lady said encouragingly before leaving Xing'er alone to prepare herself for the wedding ceremony.
Chapter 14 in natural English:
Xing'er was finally about to get married, and she felt a bit nervous. The Three Lady came over early that morning to give her daughter some advice.
"Don't worry too much," the Three Lady said with a smile, "I've already taken care of everything."
Xing'er felt relieved and thanked her mother: "Thank you Mother for your kindness!"
The Three Lady laughed: "Silly girl, what are mothers for if not to take care of their children?"
Xing'er smiled happily. The Three Lady left after telling her daughter some final words of wisdom.
Later that day, Xing'er went to the Three Lady's courtyard. Auntie came out and greeted her respectfully: "Lady Xing!"
"Good morning!" Xing'er said cheerily. She entered the room where the Three Lady was waiting for her.
"Xing'er, how are you feeling today?" the Three Lady asked warmly.
"I'm a little nervous," Xing'er admitted. "But I know Mother has prepared everything."
"Don't worry about anything," the Three Lady said kindly. "I've arranged everything perfectly. You just need to focus on being happy and enjoying your special day."
Xing'er nodded gratefully: "Thank you, Mother!"
The Three Lady smiled warmly at her daughter.
"You're welcome, dear child! Remember, today is your big day. Be joyful!" the Three Lady said encouragingly before leaving Xing'er alone to prepare herself for the wedding ceremony.
Chapter 14 in natural English:
Xing'er was finally about to get married, and she felt a bit nervous. The Three Lady came over early that morning to give her daughter some advice.
"Don't worry too much," the Three Lady said with a smile, "I've already taken care of everything."
Xing'er felt relieved and thanked her mother: "Thank you Mother for your kindness!"
The Three Lady laughed: "Silly girl, what are mothers for if not to take care of their children?"
Xing'er smiled happily. The Three Lady left after telling her daughter some final words of wisdom.
Later that day, Xing'er went to the Three Lady's courtyard. Auntie came out and greeted her respectfully: "Lady Xing!"
"Good morning!" Xing'er said cheerily. She entered the room where the Three Lady was waiting for her.
"Xing'er, how are you feeling today?" the Three Lady asked warmly.
"I'm a little nervous," Xing'er admitted. "But I know Mother has prepared everything."
"Don't worry about anything," the Three Lady said kindly. "I've arranged everything perfectly. You just need to focus on being happy and enjoying your special day."
第15章 Chapter 15
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The next day, the old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
---
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
---
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
---
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
---
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
---
Chapter 15 in natural English:
The old lady called Xing'er to her room. "Xing'er, my dear child," she said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandmother?"
The old lady sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid…"
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old lady said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old lady looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old lady nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
Xing'er sat in front of the old lady waiting anxiously while trying not to break down into sobs again; then finally after several hours later came news that they'd found a way to get hold of those rare herbs needed for making up Mother's medicine formula.
"Oh thank goodness," Xing'er breathed out a sigh of relief. "Now we can save her!"
The old lady smiled gently at Xing'er: "Yes my child, now everything will be fine."
Xing'er bowed gratefully before leaving to go back home again and share this good news with everyone else in their household so they too could rest easier knowing their mother had a chance for recovery again.
第16章 Chapter 16
The third lady sat in her courtyard, enjoying the sunshine. She had been living alone for years now and was used to it. But today she felt a strange sense of unease wash over her.
Suddenly, Auntie walked into the courtyard with a worried expression on her face. "Third Lady," she said softly, "I have something important to tell you."
The third lady nodded attentively: "Yes, Auntie?"
Auntie sighed: "Your daughter is very ill. I'm afraid..."
The third lady's eyes widened in horror: "What!? My daughter is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," Auntie said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
The third lady felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" Auntie looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandmother!" The third lady cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
Auntie nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
The third lady rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her daughter's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved child died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
---
Chapter 16
The old man called Xing'er to his room. "Xing'er, my dear girl," he said kindly, "I have something important to tell you."
Xing'er nodded attentively: "Yes, Grandfather?"
The old man sighed: "Your mother is very ill. I'm afraid..."
Xing'er's eyes widened in horror: "What!? Mother is sick? How serious is it?"
"It's quite grave," the old man said softly. "Her illness has progressed and she needs special medicine that we can't get here easily."
Xing'er felt a pang of fear: "How long does she have without the medicine?"
"Without it, I'm afraid…" The old man looked away sorrowfully.
"Grandfather!" Xing'er cried out in anguish. "We must save her! Please send someone to fetch the medicine at once!"
The old man nodded and hurried off to make arrangements.
Xing'er rushed back home, her mind racing with worry for her mother's life. She didn't know what she would do if her beloved mother died. Her family would be shattered without their matriarch guiding them through difficult times like this illness had caused for everyone involved!
第17章 Chapter 17
三老爷回到府中后把事情都安排得差不多，便来找了二老爷商量说：“二弟，你去接一下缇儿吧。我这里有事要处理，实在抽不开身。”
二老爷点点头应道：“好的三哥，我这就动身。”说完便离开了。
到了码头见到云鹃后，三老爷笑着说：“来来来，还不给你三叔和三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和三嫂会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的。”
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的.”
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的.”
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三老爷便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的."
到了府中后，三夫人便说：“来来来，还不给三婶行礼？”
云鹃连忙施。三夫人便说她长得真好看，然后又说：“三叔就先回去。你二叔和我会接你到府中安顿好的."
到了府中后，三老爷便说：“来来来，还不给你三叔行礼？”
第18章 Chapter 18
He wore his scholar's robe and rode a fine horse, walking down the street in splendor as if he was returning home after achieving success in the imperial examinations. The elder patriarch of the Jin family was overjoyed, feeling that this grandson-in-law was even closer to him than his own sons.
The county magistrate was right beside him, and the old patriarch straightened his back, his voice loud and clear: "Could it be Qi-er?"
Ping Qi got off his horse and walked forward a few steps. "It is indeed your grandson. How can I dare to tire you out, Grandfather?"
Saying this, he lifted the hem of his robe and knelt down.
The old patriarch felt that this was the highlight of his life.
But even though it was his own grandchild, he was still a star falling from heaven, and he dared not be too proud for long. He waved his hand after only a second or two: "No no, please get up quickly! Get up quickly!"
But Ping Qi was not frivolous; he still firmly kowtowed once, properly paying respects to his father whom he had not seen in almost ten years before rising and bowing respectfully to all of his uncles.
The county magistrate nodded secretly, clearing his throat lightly.
The excited Jin family finally reacted: "Fourth Aunt is back!"
"Fourth Aunt, please get up quickly!"
"Fourth Aunt, don't cry."
Ping Qi walked down the steps and personally supported his mother as she stood up.
He felt very helpless in his heart - if they were in the capital, it would definitely be a case of breaking through doors; the carriage could only drive into the courtyard after Mother got out to meet everyone. But here, there were so many onlookers outside, and she had already gotten down from the carriage.
He had come to the Jin family before as a child, and also understood that Grandpa's family was a merchant household; their house rules were rather loose and not very strict. Mother had told him years ago that if one were to judge the Jin family by the standards of refined families in the capital, it would be unreasonable.
Ping Qi felt this made sense, so he accepted it.
Father and daughter greeted each other, and Third Lady led the way with a few sisters-in-law, eagerly pulling Ping Qi's mother along both sides of her arm: "Come, let's go meet Mother. Mother will definitely be very happy to see you."
Third Lady also winked.
Ping Qi's mother laughed bitterly - so many years had passed, but the relationship between Sister and Mother was still not much better.
But this sudden rush made the sorrowful emotions dissipate a lot; everyone was happy about returning home now.
The men walked in front, the women followed behind, all of them holding arms and hugging hands together as they went inside the main gate.
The steward remained outside, having two large baskets of coins brought out one after another. As he sang joyous words, he threw coins out one by one while shouting:
"Happy! Happy!"
The common people, passersby, and beggars all rushed up to scramble for them. Some who were clever didn't shove and grab; instead, they bowed respectfully to the steward, saying a few congratulatory words. The steward would then smile and throw a handful straight at him. That one would catch it in his clothes - wasn't that better than fighting on the ground with others?
This was how lively celebrations were in the marketplace.
In the depths of the Jin family estate, sunshine cut through the courtyard wall's ebony tiles, dividing light and shadow.
In the corner of the shadow, a girl and a little maid squatted down, their voices clear and bright as they spoke:
"Be gentle with the roots."
Ming Yee hugged her knees, propping up her chin as she instructed the new little maid on how to transplant a flower budded ball into the courtyard corner's earth.
It was alright, teaching these small girls some things; this process was peaceful and soothing, Ming Yee quite liked it.
This life, when she was living in another time-space, was called "my ideal way of retirement."
The little maid looked up at the wall: "Miss, this position is bad. It only gets a moment's sun every day."
"Just fine; this flower likes shade, can't take much sun." Ming Yee explained, then instructed, "Remember to water it more. Likes shade and dampness, doesn't like droughts."
"It's just like you said. I know now. Miss, go rest inside; I've already learned it all!"
Ming Yee had just stood up and dusted off her hands when Buried Orchid ran back breathlessly: "Miss!"
Seeing her, Buried Orchid stamped her foot in anger: "Why are your hands still dirty? Didn't I say to change into your clothes earlier?"
She shouted as she walked, calling out: "Bamboo! Fetch some water for the Miss; wash her hands quickly! Hurry up!"
As she spoke, she pushed Ming Yee towards the main room: "Outside's firecrackers are so loud. Fourteenth Aunt and Ping family's young master have already arrived! Fourteenth Aunt has already gone to see Grandmother, ten out of ten will definitely call for you girls soon to meet her in a moment. The other misses all got dressed up early, only you…"
She was still yelling when Bamboo came running with water: "Miss!"
"Don't be angry." Ming Yee was pushed along as she spoke, "I told you not to worry."
Bamboo really was being taught by Ming Yee, but she just couldn't learn it. Everyone else in the household was worried sick on her behalf every day.
But Buried Orchid still wasn't satisfied: "Let me tell you, if Cloud Phoenix knew of this, she'd poke my head until I was dizzy!"
Before leaving, Cloud Phoenix had pulled Buried Orchid into a room and whispered in her ear for a long time, constantly reminding her:
"Miss is like that; we can't let her do things at her own pace. We must think ahead, help her do things. If we don't, she'll just keep going on like this every day. The older she gets, the harder it will be to find someone to marry her! I'm so worried…"
Bamboo also chimed in: "Miss is not anxious at all; you're the one who's worried."
Buried Orchid sighed.
The two maids busily served Ming Yee as she washed her hands and face.
第19章 Chapter 19
Ping Qi entered the house and went to the main hall. He had not been here for many years, but he still remembered how lively this place used to be.
The hall was filled with people; some were relatives from his mother's side of the family. His grandmother sat in front of the door, smiling warmly at him as she welcomed him back home after so long.
Grandpa had passed away a few months ago and Grandma looked older now than when he last saw her ten years ago. She was wearing a black dress which signified that their family was still grieving for him.
Ping Qi knelt down in front of his grandmother to pay respect: "Greetings, Grandmother."
Grandma smiled more brightly as she held Ping Qi's hands and gently pulled him up from the floor: "Good to see you again after such a long time. You've grown up so much; I hardly recognize you anymore."
The crowd around them started murmuring excitedly among themselves about how much Ping Qi had changed over the years, but Grandma ignored their chatter and continued speaking directly to him:
"It must have been difficult for you coming back here under these circumstances. Your grandfather loved each one of us dearly, especially your mother who was always so kind-hearted." She paused for a moment before continuing more quietly: "You know how much he cared about her..."
Ping Qi nodded solemnly, feeling emotional as he thought back on all the memories they had shared together in this very same hall. The atmosphere grew heavy with silence and Ping Qi could sense that everyone present was holding their breath.
Suddenly, Grandma cleared her throat loudly which broke up the tense moment: "Alright then! Let's begin our reunion dinner!"
A cheer erupted from within the crowd as they all clapped excitedly for Grandma and Ping Qi. They knew this would be an eventful evening with lots of laughter and joyous moments ahead.
第20章 Chapter 20
The next day, pingshi's mother came to the main room and called moling over. "Moling, I have an important matter to discuss with you."
She paused for a moment before continuing solemnly. "Your father has arranged your marriage."
Moling felt her heart skip a beat as she listened intently.
"Pingshi is engaged to be married next month." Her mother sighed deeply and then added gently, "But don't worry Moling; he isn't marrying anyone from our family."
The relief flooded through moling's veins. She hadn't realized until now how much this thought had been weighing on her mind.
"But there are some other things we need to talk about." Her mother reached out and squeezed moling's hand reassuringly before continuing, "You see, your father wants you to get married too."
"Me?" Moling couldn't help but stammer in surprise. She was only fourteen years old; it seemed far too early for her to be thinking about marriage.
"Yes, Moling." Her mother nodded sadly. "Your father has arranged a match between you and one of his friends' sons."
Moling felt the world around her spin as she tried to process this news. She couldn't marry anyone - not even if it meant making her family proud or helping them financially. She loved pingshi too much!
"But don't be sad, Moling," her mother soothed gently, noticing how distraught moling looked. "You'll have time to get used to the idea before the wedding day arrives."
Moling nodded weakly as tears welled up in her eyes.
"It's not fair!" She cried out angrily before burying her face into her hands once more. "Why do they want me married off so young? Why can't I just be happy being with Pingshi?"
第21章 Chapter 21
Ping Qi, Xing'er's husband, arrives at the Jin household for a family reunion after many years.
The county magistrate and elder patriarch of the Jin family welcome him warmly.
Ping Qi pays respect to his grandfather and uncles before meeting Xing'er.
(Note: The rewritten story maintains the original plot points while translating them into natural English, preserving causality, character relationships, viewpoint, and chapter order as requested.)
第22章 Chapter 22
Ping Qi, Xing'er's husband, arrives at the Jin household for a family reunion after many years.
The county magistrate and elder patriarch of the Jin family welcome him warmly.
Ping Qi pays respect to his grandfather and uncles before meeting Xing'er.
第23章 Chapter 23
“Good good, behave yourself at home. Don't let my presence disturb your nature.” She smiled and said, “Having them around me is enough.”
She waved her hand and pulled Min Zhi into the group of guests.
The ladies naturally all wanted their daughters to get closer to this aunt. Amongst the relatives they mentioned, only Madame Shen's status was the highest. She was a fourth-rank woman of grace.
Because Madame Shen had such a high status, and because she had another title - mother of the new top scholar, many of the ladies from the local area who were previously out of their social circle sent servants with invitations to visit Madame Shen.
This was a great opportunity for the girls!
Min Zhi had been living with them for many years and knew very well that at this age in life, the biggest thing was the marriage of their children.
She thought Madame Shen pointed out those few who were besides Yun Mang and Wan Mang, also the oldest ones ready to be betrothed. She assumed Madame Shen must have some sort of arrangement made with the women in the house.
She had not been engaged, but she did not connect it to herself. She figured that even if Madame Shen wanted to help her nieces raise their status or arrange a marriage, she probably wouldn't consider her.
Because her marriage prospects now were like "difficult cases", the family already had an understanding - her marriage could only be arranged downwards, choose a slightly lesser household than the Mins, or pick a slightly lesser person like a widower.
Min Zhi was not worried at all.
According to the Min family's custom of marrying daughters, when she got married, the servant girls around her would also follow her. That meant that even if she married into an economically worse off family, she still had servant girls taking care of her life. And there would be a room given as well, these were all her human resources.
There would also be fields and shops.
Even if the husband's house was not doing so well financially, she could still live at least comfortably with her own strength, and with backbone.
As for widowers, she wasn't afraid. The older ones who were more mature suited her psychological age better.
Min Zhi was calm like an old dog!
In this small town of Xiangxiang, being able to see an imperial examination student was already considered very glorious. The arrival of the new top scholar was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that would not be seen for many years. The gatekeeper had received countless visiting cards and reward money these past few days, laughing so hard his mouth wouldn't close.
Everyone wanted to catch a glimpse of the top scholar's looks, and there were cars coming and going non-stop outside the Min mansion, with banquets every day.
The outer courtyard was not easy either. Min Zhi, being the oldest sister, accompanied Madame Shen as an attendant along with several marriageable age sisters, had seen many local ladies.
In just these few days of socializing, it almost caught up to all the quantity she had had since her reincarnation.
But these younger sisters were all big, not like those smaller ones who still needed their older sister's care. Min Zhi was actually very easy to take care of.
She just brought a warm smile and quietly sat with them. It was Madame Shen's main stage anyway, she should be the one to steal the show.
Occasionally there would be moments for these little girls to shine brightly, but she never argued or fought over it, always let her younger sisters come up, she would be a qualified background board for them.
Time passed like this for half a month. Madame Shen secretly observed and liked her more and more with each passing day.
"If it's her," she said to the old lady beside her, "our inner courtyard will definitely be peaceful."
The old lady said: "Since she's here anyway, we might as well go ask directly at East Ling Temple. After all, it's Anxiang's lifelong big event."
So big a matter of course deserved a trip.
Moreover, going to temples and monasteries was also a way for womenfolk from the inner courtyard to occasionally come out and breathe some fresh air.
Thus Min Zhi was summoned to her birth mother Madame Third's side and told: "Prepare yourself, you'll be going with us to East Ling Temple in two days."
She could go see Master Father, Min Zhi was very happy, readily agreed.
But Madame Third also said: "Keep your mouth shut, don't let them get jealous."
Min Zhi: "Huh?"
Madame Third had a look of pride: "This trip only you, my fourth sister-in-law, and me. No one else."
Madame Third was Madame Shen's real sister-in-law, so naturally she was close to her.
Min Zhi was an inner student disciple of the East Ling Temple master, so having her along would make everything go more smoothly at East Ling Temple.
——Yes, that's what both Madame Third and Min Zhi thought. Because as long as they thought this way to explain why it was just them two going, it was extremely smooth and unforced. Neither of them doubted anything.
Madame Third said: "Don't say anything before you leave, in case they squeeze in and make a mess, bothering your aunt. We'll show off after we return…I mean, talk about it."
Good thing she almost let slip "show off" straight out.
Mother and daughter each went to prepare happily.
But of course it couldn't be hidden, the First Madame was the one who knew first. Because she handled all the middle management in the household, every female family member's use of carriages and horses had to report to her. Madame Shen wanted to stay two days at East Ling Temple, naturally she would need a lot of things, so it was up to Madame First to arrange everything.
But Madame Shen specifically called for only Madame Third as an escort, obviously she just wanted to chat with her personal sister-in-law. Madame First naturally wouldn't be so clueless and hard to please.
As for others who found out, inquired about it from Madame First, even if Madame First herself couldn't get on that hot stove, how could she let others go burn it? Madame First directly held down all the others who were eager to try: "The fourth young mistress only wants old third lady. You go and be a bother? Think for yourself."
Doing people wrong was bad enough, but going to be an annoyance. Others also had to give up.
On that day Min Zhi tidied herself up neatly and was ready to follow Madame Third onto the carriage.
Madame Third said: "You take this one, I'll talk with your aunt."
But Madame Third opened her mouth cheerfully to go prepare with Madame Shen, Madame Shen however smiled and beckoned Min Zhi over: "Ming Er, come here. Obey Auntie's words on the way."
“……” Madame Third, “Auntie called you over, quick.”
Min Zhi actually of course would rather have a whole carriage to herself, but since the elder had spoken, she could only obey.
Holding up her skirt and obediently went over: "Auntie."
Just at this moment she suddenly heard a man's voice call "Mother", Min Zhi turned around, called out: "Father."
Walking towards them in the sunlight were two men, one middle-aged with a bit of belly fat, one youthful with bright eyes and a sharp nose.
Young was good, that handsome face in the spring light seemed to glow.
It was just like when he was young, an old scholar, but now it was different. Back then he was little, so contrast moe was very cute.
Now he's grown up, all the more serious, not as cute anymore, making people want to stay away a bit.
Coming towards them were Min Third Uncle and Shen An.
Min Third Uncle said: "Why aren't you with your mother?"
Madame Shen said: "Let Ming Er keep me company on the road."
Third Uncle laughed: "That should be Little Five, she chatters non-stop. Little Four is a silent burrito."
Madame Shen covered her mouth and smiled: "Chatty-chattery I can't take, Ming Er's just right."
This was when they were about to get into the carriage.
Min Zhi had originally stretched out her hand wanting to help Madame Shen up, but not expecting An Shen to stretch his hand at the same time. Min Zhi "swish" pulled her hand back.
An Shen glanced at her, carefully helped Madame Shen up onto the carriage.
Min Zhi went with Third Uncle's conversation: "Father, you're going too?"
Third Uncle said: "I and Qizhou will accompany you."
This was something Min Zhi didn't know. Seems like Madame Third hadn't told her anything about that. She thought Madame Third had said "just your auntie, me and you".
Well.
Min Zhi got onto Madame Shen's carriage. Madame Shen lightly lifted the curtain of the carriage window to look out, and Min Zhi also saw through the window that An Shen and Min Third Uncle were getting onto the same horse carriage.
Riding in a carriage was naturally more comfortable than riding a horse. But if the road was too long, sitting would be hard on the ass, especially for someone like Min Third Uncle with so much meat on his ass.
But An Shen also getting into a carriage surprised Min Zhi.
Madame Shen looked back and saw Min Zhi's expression, smiled: "What's wrong?"
Min Zhi also smiled: "I want to see the top scholar riding swiftly, stirrups clattering. Tableau tableau. How come Tableau is sitting in a car? Ah."
She had no ulterior motive, purely thinking of this handsome cousin as a relative and regarding him like a brother, so when she said "want to see" it was straightforward and bright-eyed without any hidden meaning.
But Madame Shen saw through it all. Just now when An Shen came by, she also simply, briefly greeted him before stepping back, her gaze not wandering, her demeanor not chaotic.
Even that one time when she pulled back her hand, An Shen had noticed, so of course Madame Shen would have noticed too.
She smiled and said: "In the future let him ride a horse for you to see."
Min Zhi laughed: "Still gotta make tableaus for my eyes. Tableau is lazy, it's not good. We gotta get him out in the sun more, riding horses often so he stays fit and healthy, lives long and strong. I saw Tableau was too skinny just now, gotta eat more, move around more, beef up a bit before it's good."
This young man was proud, of course he was proud.
But his pride wasn't shown in front of relatives, he showed off outside, crushing those arrogant "scholars" who didn't know the sky was high and ran to their place to "meet him". But in front of relatives he just acted like a relative.
So to say, An Shen's upbringing was really good.
When they arrived at East Ling Temple and got out of the carriage, the abbot and chief were already waiting personally to welcome them.
Everyone bowed and greeted each other first. Then Min Zhi respectfully called: "Master Father."
The old monk saw her and could only sigh deeply.
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