Chapter 58

Chapter 58

After the commotion, the meals for Yao Niang and others finally improved, and Lady Yu no longer dared to use the excuse that this remote place made it difficult to procure supplies. Ying Niang had once come over, indignant and urging Yao Niang to take action, but Yao Niang said, "She is pregnant and also my sister-in-law. We have achieved our goal."

After all, Lady Yu was not living with them, so why bother.

Ying Niang pouted, "If you hadn't told me, I would still be in the dark."

"This is nothing much. You will soon be the lady of the Xu family and the eldest daughter-in-law. There are younger brothers and sisters in your brother-in-law's family. Such things will only increase, using public funds for personal favors, and acting against you while pretending to be friendly on the surface," Yao Niang said, looking at her.

Ying Niang retorted, "Not everyone in the world is as bad as you say. I think the people around me are good. Third Sister, you just can't stand to see others do well."

Yao Niang knew that Ying Niang was overly proud and didn't bother to argue with her. Let her suffer the consequences; she wasn't going to waste her time evaluating her further.

By the eighth day of the eighth month, although it was still hot during the day, it was already cold enough to need blankets at night.

With the Mid-Autumn Festival approaching, Yao Niang and the others had to return. Lady Yu, rubbing her belly, sighed in relief. She found that Qian Niang and Ying Niang were easy to deceive: Qian Niang rarely spoke up and often endured silently, while Ying Niang simply didn't notice. Only Yao Niang was hard to fool.

But fortunately, she wasn't as stubborn as Lady Gu, who would stick to one path until the end.

Even if the ladies of the household questioned her, she could always say that she was young and new to the area, and didn't know the surroundings.

Returning to the mansion, Lady Jie noticed that her daughter's skin had become whiter, but her chin was more pointed. She worried, "Why have you lost weight?"

"It's fine, Mother. I actually wanted to lose some weight. At home, you always made me eat so many delicious dishes; it's no wonder I gained weight," Yao Niang smiled.

Seeing that Yao Niang didn't say anything, Lady Jie and the other five summoned Auntie Gu, who didn't dare to hide anything. "Our young miss is kind-hearted. She thought about Lady Yu being pregnant and didn't want to criticize her. But Lady Yu doesn't act like a sister-in-law. She spends freely on the servants, buys whatever she likes, and doesn't follow the rules. She only takes good care of the few people sent by the First Lady. You see, the money given was originally for the girls' expenses, but she used it all for herself. If our young miss hadn't discovered this, we would still be eating the simple farm food from the estate."

Lady Jie snorted, "She has lofty ambitions but a fragile fate. When I was in Jin Ling, I heard that Second Brother didn't necessarily have to marry her. Her family often came to our door, persuading our grandmother. It's not that I'm harsh, but if she doesn't harm my daughter, I won't say anything. If she makes my daughter's life difficult, I won't let her off."

"Second Lady, don't worry. The food later became similar to what we have at home," Auntie Gu said.

Lady Jie shook her head, "Don't think too much about it. The Mid-Autumn Festival is coming up, and both mansions will celebrate together. Tomorrow, have the young miss come here. Her brother is on leave tomorrow, and we'll go out to inspect the teahouse and take her out for a meal."

Auntie Gu agreed immediately.

Not all mothers and daughters are like Lady Jie and Yao Niang. Auntie Gu thought that the reason there were fewer internal conflicts in the third branch was because Lady Jie, Yao Niang, and Yan Jingzhao got along well, leaving fewer opportunities for the servants to play both sides.

Ying Niang, however, quickly spoke without hesitation, saying, "I never expected Second Sister-in-Law to be such an expert at winning people's hearts. Do you know what we ate those days? Chicken soup with noodles or a few greasy dishes, and four small plates of vegetables. She said the conditions on the estate were limited. But she gave a lot of money to the servants, like a generous child, and everyone praised her, criticizing us instead."

"Her actions are wrong, but Ying Niang, you might learn from her. That's how you win people's hearts," Lady Zhen understood. Although she planned to reprimand Lady Yu, she also thought that Lady Yu's approach was quite clever, as no one criticized her.

Ying Niang frowned, "Why should I learn from her? Didn't Third Sister see through her tricks right away?"

Lady Zhen shook her head, "That's because your Second Sister-in-Law is still inexperienced. If she treated you and your cousin the same way but gave different treatment to you and your second sister privately, then even if Third Sister knew the truth, she would be alone and unable to speak up. Who would vouch for her?"

Ying Niang was deeply frightened. Her mother didn't say that Lady Yu was wrong, but that her methods were crude.

**

Before the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lady Jie instructed Yan Jingzhao to send gifts to the Li family. She was generous and insisted on giving substantial gifts, saying, "This is your first visit after the engagement, so we must be courteous."

"I understand, Mother," Yan Jingzhao replied, though he wasn't particularly concerned. It was a remarriage, and his fiancée was neither beautiful nor talented, but as his mother said, they must be courteous. Even if she wasn't a good person, since they were engaged, she would be his future wife.

Lady Jie smiled, "Life isn't just about looks. A person's character is also important. I think Miss Li is a sincere and honest girl. If you treat her sincerely, she will face any difficulty with you."

The political world is unpredictable, and no one has a smooth path. Having a supportive partner is better than anything else.

Yan Jingzhao thought Lady Jie was making a big deal out of nothing and just nodded, "Alright, Mother, I'll do my best."

Seeing her brother about to leave, Yao Niang said, "Brother, I bought two boxes of rouge yesterday. They look quite nice. I've already wrapped them up. Take one box to your fiancée."

"I don't want to," Yan Jingzhao resisted.

Yao Niang laughed, covering her mouth, "Brother, your fiancée will definitely like the gift you bring."

Hearing his mother and sister, Yan Jingzhao reluctantly accepted the gift and went to saddle his horse to visit the Li family.

After Yan Jingzhao left, Lady Jie looked at Yao Niang, "Your brother is actually quite traditional at heart, despite his rebellious appearance."

"Yes, last time when he went to pin the hairpin, he seemed very good at pleasing girls," Yao Niang said.

Lady Jie shook her head, "Any man who is slightly handsome and polite appears charming. It's not that your brother is particularly good at winning women's hearts. But for women, being too beautiful can make in-laws suspicious, and they must appear virtuous."

Seeing her daughter lost in thought, she added, "Your father said you were all children before, but now each of you is engaged. This time, all three sons-in-law will visit. If they don't come, they don't come, but if they do, they all come at once."

Yao Niang smiled again.

By the end of the year, her sister-in-law would be joining the family, and her second sister would be getting married.

As they chatted, Auntie Song came over and said, "The Second Son-in-Law from the main house has arrived. The First Lady originally wanted our eldest son to receive him, but since he is already at the Li family, she asked the second and third sons to accompany Son-in-Law Wen."

Lady Jie explained, "Wen Qilang was chosen by your father. He is a very capable person, which is why he came earliest and with great sincerity."

"Mother, if that's the case, why didn't Fourth Sister ask Father for help?" Yao Niang asked.

Lady Jie shook her head, "I don't know."

Yao Niang thought that her second sister's marriage was a good match. Her personality was adept at navigating complex relationships, evident even at home where the main house and their branch did not get along. Yet, Qian Niang managed to maintain good relations with everyone, which was not easy. The old Prime Minister of the Wen family had three wives and seven sons. Once Qian Niang joined the family, she would have many sisters-in-law, a challenge that others might find difficult, but Qian Niang could handle it easily.

On the other hand, Ying Niang's husband came from a family that rose through the imperial examinations, only two generations ago. Although Xu Shilang was a high-ranking official in the Ministry of Justice, he disliked conflict and was diplomatic. However, if Xu Shilang's son, who was a government official, had a temper that responded to softness but not firmness, Ying Niang's life would be difficult.

Wen Qilang was talking with Jingzhang and Jingwen. After a brief interaction, he had a good understanding of their characters. The second son of the Yan family was ambitious and fond of flattery, lacking real talent. The third son, though young, was stronger than his brother. But among the current generation of the Yan family, the most capable was Yan Jingzhao.

Surprisingly, both Yan Jingzhang and Yan Jingwen had a good impression of Wen Qilang, and Qian Niang was also satisfied with him.

They had a brief meeting, and Wen Qilang, a very presentable man, saw Qian Niang's graceful demeanor and gentle nature, developing a favorable impression. As a member of a noble family, he had attendants, but the role of a wife was different.

Most importantly, Yan Yingqi achieved success at a young age and held a high office in middle age. He was waiting for a hereditary title from his father, who had six older brothers. Marrying into a powerful family would smooth his path in politics.

Of course, now that his father was the Prime Minister, the Yan family was actually below the Wen family.

Qian Niang said to him, "My father loves to drink calamus wine, and my mother enjoys the pastries from the fruit shop on West Street. Remember that in the future."

"Alright, I'll remember."

"I'll be off then, take care." With that, Qian Niang left.

Wen Qilang smiled and then departed as well.

On this side, Yao Niang was having tea and snacks at Jie Shi's place. She mentioned that the teahouse had introduced new pastries, and Jie Shi's teahouse employed many women for washing dishes, doing odd jobs, and even making pastries.

Jie Shi often said that it was not easy for women, and being able to earn money outside the home raised their status within the family.

However, when she heard that Shen Linfeng had come, Yao Niang immediately stood up to avoid him, because Jie Shi had always been very strict with her, often saying that young girls should guard their virtue, especially since she was beautiful and easily subject to gossip.

But today, Jie Shi said, "Sit down. Since you are engaged, you are already an unmarried couple. Although propriety must be observed, one cannot go against human nature." She herself had experienced it; the affection between men and women was perfectly normal.

Although Yan Yingqi was not much of a man, he did have genuine feelings for her.

Today, Shen Linfeng wore a purple robe and a golden crown. When he entered, Yao Niang felt even more that his presence added luster to the humble abode. After entering, Shen Linfeng respectfully greeted Jie Shi, "Your humble son-in-law greets Lady Yan."

Jie Shi invited him to sit down and had someone serve tea.

After sitting down, Shen Linfeng glanced at Yao Niang, who was wearing a pink blouse and white skirt, with a lotus-shaped hair ornament. She looked like a flower about to bloom. He thought that once she came to his home, he would personally help her choose clothes, which would surely make her look even more beautiful.

"Lady Yan, besides the mooncakes and other festival gifts, I also brought some crabs. They are all fresh, transported from our Zhejiang Road."

Jie Shi smiled broadly, "You are truly thoughtful."

Yao Niang looked at Jie Shi and said, "Mother, I want to eat crab roe buns."

Jie Shi glanced at Shen Linfeng apologetically, "My daughter is so impolite."

"No, if Sister Yan likes them, that's fine," Shen Linfeng said with bright eyes.

Yao Niang slightly turned her head, revealing a graceful stretch of her neck. She then heard Jie Shi asking Shen Linfeng what he had been busy with recently. Shen Linfeng laughed and said, "Recently, I've mostly been writing books. I even stayed overnight at the Imperial Academy yesterday."

"Is it that tiring? I heard from my brother that the food at the Imperial Academy is not good. Where do you usually eat, Brother Shen?" Yao Niang interjected.

Hearing Yao Niang's concern, Shen Linfeng laughed heartily, "It's not that bad. I often go out to eat with my colleagues." Then he asked, "Where is Brother Boying?"

Yao Niang teased, "My brother went to the Li family. What's wrong? You see each other every day at the Imperial Academy, and now you want to see him at my house too?"

Jie Shi quickly smoothed things over, "Yao Niang just likes to joke around."

Yao Niang? Shen Linfeng thought, truly fitting her name. Yao Niang is a gentle lady, and a gentleman would naturally seek her. Was she just jealous earlier? He was allergic to cats and dogs, feeling uncomfortable when exposed to their fur. But seeing others play with them seemed to amuse him. Now, he realized that Yao Niang's jealous expression was also quite charming.

Fortunately, Shen Linfeng didn't want Yao Niang to feel awkward, so he quickly changed the subject, "Sister, you're joking. I came specially to deliver the festival gifts and thought you might enjoy shrimp and crabs, so I brought them over. Although they are not the best, please accept them kindly."

"The intention is more important than anything. Last time at the estate, we were grateful for your family's help, and I haven't had the chance to thank you yet." Yao Niang quickly stood up and curtsied.

Shen Linfeng immediately returned the gesture.

Jie Shi wanted to keep Shen Linfeng for dinner, but he quickly declined. Jie Shi then said, "Yao Niang, see Linfeng off."

This was to give the young couple some private time. Shen Linfeng hadn't expected such a pleasant surprise. As soon as he stepped out, he turned to look at Yao Niang, "Long time no see, Sister Yan, how are you?"

"Fine, except that last time at the estate, my hair was bitten by insects, and I ended up bleeding a lot when I scratched it. The medicine I brought back wasn't easy to apply," Yao Niang complained softly.

She thought Shen Linfeng might be disgusted, but unexpectedly, he said, "Where exactly? Do you want me to take a look?"

"It's not convenient right now. I'll try to avoid touching it," Yao Niang shook her head.

Shen Linfeng, noticing the people around them, also felt it was inappropriate, but he was still worried, "You should still see a doctor. It can't be left like this, and the window screens should be fixed."

"Alright, I'll follow your advice," Yao Niang smiled.

As they approached the second gate, she added, "In a few days, we will make crab meat buns. I'll have my brother bring some over for you to try. By the way, are you allergic to these?"

Shen Linfeng shook his head quickly, "I'm from Wu Xing, and I used to eat them often at home. How could I be allergic?"

"Then it's settled," Yao Niang smiled.

When Shen Linfeng left, he felt somewhat reluctant. He didn't know why, but every time he met her, he felt no barrier between them, always having topics to talk about and enjoying it immensely.

After seeing Shen Linfeng off, the Mid-Autumn Festival arrived quickly. Yao Niang happily went to admire the moon and showed everyone the Twelve Flower Deities painting she had drawn.

Seeing the harmony among the siblings, Yan Yingqi couldn't help but sigh, "Life is rare when flowers are in full bloom, the moon is round, and people are together. Our family has achieved this."

Zhen Shi smiled, "That's true, sir."

Jie Shi also said, "This year, our family will have two weddings. The second sister's wedding is also on the agenda. This will be the last Mid-Autumn Festival they spend with their parents."

During the Mid-Autumn Festival, they ate crabs sent by the Shen family. Jie Shi said to Yan Yingqi, "The young master from the Shen family is thoughtful. He specially sent crabs over. I find them very good, and knowing you love crab roe, I had someone make crab roe soup buns."

Yan Yingqi was pleased, "Since you had them made, I'll eat more."

He really ate a lot when he liked something, but with Zhen Shi present, she quickly advised, "Crab roe is cold in nature. You should eat less."

Is there any woman who doesn't get jealous at all? That's impossible.

In the past, Yan Yingqi at least seemed not to favor Jie Shi, but now, living together, the tacit understanding between Yan Yingqi and Jie Shi often hurt her.

She even wondered if the reason Yan Yingqi didn't like her was because she spoke the truth, while Jie Shi indulged him in everything.

But Jie Shi was speechless. She herself could eat half a basket of crab roe buns, let alone Yan Yingqi, a grown man.

Moreover, Yan Yingqi was an adult, not a child. Life was rare when one could be happy, but Jie Shi wouldn't argue with Zhen Shi.

Hearing Zhen Shi's words, Yan Yingqi didn't mind, "No problem. I've loved crabs since I was a child. When I was young, my mother even had someone make crab roe sauce for breakfast."

When the adults spoke in subtle tones, the children remained silent. Yan Jingzhao cracked another crab and began eating the crab roe as if no one else was around. Everyone looked at him, but he paid them no mind, even addressing Yao Niang, "Dear sister, thank you for arranging this marriage. I heard that someone from the Shen family is involved in river and maritime trade, so if we want to eat something from anywhere, we just need to ask."

"Brother, what are you talking about?" Yao Niang thought that at this moment, Lady Zhen's face might really be twisted with anger. She had heard that Yan Jingzhao had previously called Yan Jingzhang absolute mud, and now Lady Zhen was trying to persuade their father not to eat the crab roe buns made by Mother, while her brother was smashing crabs, which was quite bold.

Yan Jingzhao then changed the subject, "Father, I heard that the Zhou family has been exonerated. Will Lingguang be able to come to the capital?"

Yan Yingqi nodded, "That's right. It was the Emperor who suddenly brought it up and ordered Commander Liu to investigate. Now that Master Zhou has passed away, all grievances have vanished."

"That's wonderful. He hasn't wasted a single day these past years; he will surely achieve great things in the future." Yan Jingzhao was very loyal and had always kept his friend Zhou Lingguang in his thoughts.

However, Yan Yingqi said, "When he comes to the capital, you should arrange for him to stay."

"Yes, Father, I will do as you command."

Yao Niang detected an unusual tone in her father's words because he had specifically asked her brother to make the arrangements. Could it be that her father would not be in the capital? Her father had held the position of Deputy Minister of Appointments for three years and was approaching the time for promotion. He wanted to secure the position of Minister of Rites as a stepping stone to entering the cabinet. Otherwise, if he were transferred to another ministry or promoted to Minister of Appointments, it would be difficult for him to enter the cabinet later.

Her father was definitely not the type to give up easily. Could something have happened?

Yao Niang pondered this, but seeing Yan Yingqi chatting and laughing, she thought she might be overthinking it.

Lady Zhen also noticed these subtle differences and wondered if her husband might not get a promotion this time. It wasn't impossible.

Although Vice Premier Gong needed help now, the clean officials felt that Gong was too subservient to the ruling party, and rumors were circulating among the censors, though it was unclear who was behind them.

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yan Jingzhao went to the Imperial Academy early and saw Shen Linfeng. He handed him a food box, "Brother Gongding, these are crab roe buns. My family asked me to bring them to you."

"Really?" Shen Linfeng had been looking forward to it.

Seeing his eagerness, Yan Jingzhao couldn't help but say, "Brother Shen, you are truly blessed. My sister can't cook at all, yet she said she plans to try soon."

Hearing that Yao Niang planned to cook, Shen Linfeng quickly replied, "Don't let her hurt herself. She really can't cook. The last time on the boat, she didn't even recognize an eggplant, saying she had only eaten it but never seen it grow."

Yan Jingzhao thought that if he hadn't asked today, he wouldn't have known how much they had been keeping from him.

But seeing how concerned Shen Linfeng was about his sister, he felt better and smiled, "Mother doesn't let her into the kitchen, but she insists on doing it herself."

"Tell her not to. We are both from Jiangnan and eat the same food. My family has many cooks; there's no need for her to trouble herself." Shen Linfeng opened the food box and saw a small steamer of crab roe buns, with a flower note on top that read, "Deep dew makes the flowers cold, frost brings the crab roe rich."

Even though the buns were only warm and slightly cold, he still enjoyed them immensely.

However, Yan Jingzhao also said, "Brother Shen, do you know Zhou Lingguang? I heard he was famous in the capital along with you back then."

Shen Linfeng's eyes darkened for a moment before returning to normal, "Of course, I know him. But I haven't seen him since then, which is a pity."

Yan Jingzhao laughed, "He is staying at my house. He might come to the capital soon. Although he hasn't participated in the imperial exams these past years, the articles he sent me in his letters have only improved. I'll introduce you when the time comes."

"Thank you, Boying," Shen Linfeng said.

Yan Jingzhao patted his shoulder, "You are going to be my brother-in-law, and we are also fellow scholars. Isn't it natural? I can guarantee that my friend is a true talent. When the time comes, our families can recruit him to prevent him from falling into the wrong hands."

Shen Linfeng smiled but said nothing.