Chapter 5: Returning Home

Chapter 5: Returning Home

Just after the Mid-Autumn Festival, the morning wind grew increasingly chilly.

Cheng Yian rubbed her cold nose and draped the crimson satin cloak prepared by Nanny Li over her shoulders before stepping out.

Nanny Li escorted her to the moon gate, "The mistress sent word early this morning that the carriage was ready at the main gate. The old lady rose late and excused you from paying your respects, so you may go directly to the Cheng residence."

At this point, fearing that Cheng Yian might be too casual, she softly reminded, "Even if you don't go to the old lady, you should still pay your respects to the mistress before leaving."

Cheng Yian nodded, "Of course, that's the proper way. By the way, where is Second Master?"

Lu Xusheng had somehow disappeared early this morning.

Nanny Li smiled wryly and said, "He said he went to practice martial arts."

Being new, the staff arrangements were not yet in place, making it hard to track the master's whereabouts.

Cheng Yian nodded and headed towards Second Mistress's Mingxi Hall with Ru Lan. At a fork in the corridor, they encountered Lu Xusheng waiting there. The cool wind brushed Cheng Yian's cheeks, turning them as red as fruit, enhancing her charm. Lu Xusheng glanced at her and muttered,

"I changed clothes in the study after practicing martial arts."

This was his explanation for not accompanying her.

Cheng Yian didn't mind and went with him to pay respects to Second Mistress before exiting through the Chuihua Gate and boarding the carriage to the Cheng residence.

Cheng Yian immediately noticed the capable woman waiting outside the carriage, dressed in a light red long jacket with a dark red vest over it, her face full of smiles. It was none other than Ming, the accompanying sister-in-law.

"Second Master, Second Mistress!" Ming quickly stepped forward to greet them.

Her voice was also brisk and cheerful.

Cheng Yian liked Ming very much.

Ming was very devoted to her. In her previous life, after being framed, it was Ming who rushed to the main branch of the Cheng family and reported the matter to the ancestors. The head of the Cheng family personally handled the matter.

In her previous life, Cheng Yian trusted Nanny Li more, but in fact, Nanny Li was the old lady's informant, while Ming was absolutely loyal to her.

Ming supported Cheng Yian as she entered the carriage, while Lu Xusheng instructed the steward outside to check the gifts for the return home.

Soon, the carriage started and slowly moved out of the alley in front of the Lu family. Cheng Yian instructed Ru Lan to procure some incense oil and candles later, as she had a particular use for them. Suddenly, the carriage curtain was lifted, and Lu Xusheng entered.

Cheng Yian was somewhat dazed as she watched the tall man bend down and enter.

In her previous life, Lu Xusheng had never ridden with her. During their newlywed period, he was dissatisfied with the marriage and disliked the fourth branch of the Cheng family. He only gave face in public and never got close to her in private.

Why was he entering her carriage today?

Ru Lan, seeing the master enter, quickly stepped out.

Lu Xusheng sat down on Cheng Yian's left side and, noticing her looking him up and down, asked,

"What's wrong?"

Cheng Yian felt that Lu Xusheng was acting a bit strange.

If keeping her out of kitchen affairs was to avoid entanglement, then sending Nanny Xu away last night and riding with her today seemed suspicious.

It seemed as though he was considering a life with her.

Cheng Yian couldn't help but ask,

"Why aren't you riding a horse?"

Lu Xusheng paused slightly. In his past life, he thought carriages were too slow and rarely rode in them. Today, for some reason, he had just entered. The man placed his hands on his knees, avoiding her cold stare, and replied indifferently, "Didn’t I ride enough in my past life? I even died on horseback."

Oh, so that's it.

A sensitive topic, then.

Cheng Yian didn't think much more about it.

The couple sat in silence, one looking straight ahead and the other gazing out the window, listening to the clatter of the carriage as they rested.

Cheng Yian was planning what she needed to do later and turned to Lu Xusheng,

"I might stay late at the Cheng residence today, you can leave after lunch."

In her past life, Lu Xusheng had felt out of place at the Cheng family and left right after the banquet.

Upon hearing this, Lu Xusheng's expression darkened, and he said with a sneer,

"Going to see Fan Yulin?"

The Fan family lived next door to the Cheng family, and the two had grown up together—something Lu Xusheng was well aware of.

Cheng Yian was startled. Meeting Lu Xusheng’s mocking gaze, she snapped, "No." After a moment's thought, she added, "He's not in the capital right now."

In her past life, after the emperor’s marriage decree, Fan Yulin had left for Yizhou, heartbroken, and didn’t return to the capital until half a year later.

Of course, how much of that heartbreak was real or feigned, Cheng Yian didn't know.

Seeing how clearly Cheng Yian remembered Fan Yulin’s affairs, Lu Xusheng felt a surge of irritation.

Perhaps he should do something, like sending someone to Yizhou to kill that pretty boy, to cut off Cheng Yian's retreat.

Lu Xusheng rubbed the calluses on his palms, glanced sideways at Cheng Yian, half-serious and half-probing,

"How was your past life?"

Cheng Yian looked up, meeting his deep gaze, and suddenly felt a surge of sadness, grievance, and even unwillingness.

She knew exactly what Lu Xusheng meant.

In her past life, even though she was far away in Yizhou, she often heard rumors from the capital, all about how illustrious the Lu Duke's mansion was, and how harmoniously Lu Xusheng and his delicate wife lived. People are always reluctant to admit defeat, and she couldn't give him the chance to mock her.

She avoided his gaze and lazily replied, "Not bad."

Indeed.

Lu Xusheng's heart twinged, he snorted coldly and said no more.

They remained silent all the way to the Cheng residence.

The Cheng family was more established than the Lu family. While the Lu family’s mansion was a gift from the emperor, the Cheng family’s main residence had been in the family for generations. Though the throne had changed hands several times, the Cheng family remained the Cheng family.

The Cheng residence was located in the northeast direction of Huanghua Fang, in the Cheng family garden area,

Built against the mountain, lush and green, from a distance, several pavilions and towers were nestled among the verdant mountain trees, exuding a serene atmosphere, quite like a secluded paradise compared to the densely packed roofs elsewhere.

Although the residence is somewhat distant from the imperial city, it occupies a vast area and has its own defense system. The entire Cheng family estate is square-shaped, enclosed by high walls, with watchtowers at regular intervals, and patrolled by servants every night.

A long street runs through the center of the Cheng family estate, serving as the main route for the Cheng family's daily activities.

This long street divides the estate into the South Mansion and the Northern Mansion. According to the Cheng family genealogy, there are fifteen branches in total, most of whom reside in their ancestral home in Hongnong, with only four or five branches remaining in the capital. The entire northern section of the street is occupied by the main branch, while the other branches are clustered in the South Mansion, which in fact relies on the Northern Mansion for support.

The fourth branch of the Cheng family is one of the branches in the South Mansion.

The Cheng family is prosperous and has many daughters. While other families might find having many daughters a burden, each daughter of the Cheng family is seen as a treasure. Why? Because the status and position of the Cheng family are such that even the daughters of the collateral branches have a steady stream of suitors, as if marrying a Cheng daughter ensures a secure future.

Because of this, it is quite common for sons-in-law to return to the Cheng residence or for married daughters to visit their families.

But Cheng Yian and Lu Xusheng are exceptions.

Today, the gates of the Cheng residence are as imposing as ever, but many eyes are secretly watching.

Second Mistress Wang Shi is dissatisfied with this marriage, and there are others in the Cheng family who are also unhappy.

Lu Xusheng is the rising star in the imperial court, so why should such a distinguished son-in-law be given to Cheng Yian?

The order of seniority does not favor Cheng Yian, and there are others with more talent and a better family background.

"It must be her looks. Look, among all the daughters of the Cheng family, especially in the main branch, who is as beautiful as An An?"

The bride wore a deep red long jacket with a matching front, her hair styled in a lily bun decorated with pearls, and over it, a peach-red floral brocade coat. Around her neck hung a string of eight-treasure tassels, with a jade pendant at the bottom. The jade was of excellent quality, with a vibrant color, clearly a top-grade piece. Her face was a clear, bright oval, like a freshly peeled egg, with bright eyes and a tall, graceful figure, presenting a very dignified appearance.

When it comes to looks, even the girls peeking from under the windows had to admit defeat.

The carriage stopped in front of the South Mansion gate, where the servants lined up in an orderly manner to greet them. Some took the horses, others led the way inside, and some went to announce their arrival. The scene was bustling but quiet, with everyone holding their breath and focusing intently.

Cheng Yian got out of the carriage, unconsciously collecting herself.

Lu Xusheng's status was extraordinary, and the fourth branch of the Cheng family sent the third elder master, Cheng Mingtong, along with a group of young gentlemen to welcome him.

For the fourth branch, this marriage was a step up, and the Cheng brothers dared not call Lu Xusheng by his courtesy name, instead respectfully addressing him by his official title, "Qianshi" (a mid-level official position), with reverence in their expressions.

The third elder master, Cheng Mingtong, smiled and gestured toward the entrance,

"Come, Xusheng, let's go in for some tea."

While the South Mansion gate was bustling, a clear voice suddenly came from the steps of the North Mansion,

"Shen Zhi."

Shen Zhi was Lu Xusheng's courtesy name, and both Lu Xusheng and Cheng Yian turned to look at the same time.

The man quickly descended the steps and approached the couple. He had a handsome face, with long eyebrows and a broad face, exuding a heroic aura. He was none other than Cheng Yiyan, the eldest son of the elder master of the North Mansion, Cheng Mingyu. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, he would become the future patriarch and leader of the Cheng family.

Cheng Yiyan bowed slightly to the couple, "Shen Zhi and Sister An, congratulations on your return today. Yiyan offers his congratulations."

Cheng Yiyan's presence here was simple.

This marriage was arranged by imperial decree, and Cheng Yiyan's gesture was to show respect to the emperor and the Lu family.

He had a naturally amiable demeanor, his face always seeming to carry a hint of a smile.

Lu Xusheng often interacted with him in court, and compared to the rest of the Cheng family, he was on better terms with Cheng Yiyan. He calmly returned the gesture,

"Thank you, Brother Yanning." (Yanning is Cheng Yiyan's courtesy name.)

Cheng Yiyan nodded with a smile, his gaze shifting to Cheng Yian, only to see her eyes well up with tears.

Cheng Yian struggled to contain her emotions when she saw Cheng Yiyan.

In her previous life, after her divorce and remarriage to Yizhou, she undoubtedly disrupted the strategic alliance between the Cheng and Lu families. The fourth branch of the Cheng family showed her no kindness. It was this future clan leader who sympathized with her suffering in the Lu family and, despite opposition, ensured she received her monthly allowance from the Cheng family, supporting her and ensuring she lived comfortably in Yizhou. Reborn and seeing this clan brother she barely knew, how could she not feel moved?

The prosperity of the Cheng family for centuries was inseparable from the vision, generosity, and responsibility of its successive leaders.

So, when the monthly allowance was cut off in her previous life, did something happen to this clan brother?

In this life, she must not let anything happen to him. She must not let the Cheng family fall.

Cheng Yian gritted her teeth, determined to change the course of events.

Seeing Cheng Yian's tearful eyes, Cheng Yiyan was momentarily startled and quickly asked, "Why are you crying with joy, sister?"

Though he addressed Cheng Yian, his eyes clearly looked at Lu Xusheng, questioning if he had wronged Cheng Yian.

This is the power of the main branch; no one from the fourth branch would dare to act this way.

Fearing he might overthink, Cheng Yian quickly wiped her tears and smiled, bowing to him.

"Brother, forgive my laughter, I am just happy..."

After speaking, she cast a shy glance at Lu Xusheng.

Lu Xusheng looked at her calmly, silent, but still moved closer to her side.

Cheng Yiyan was reassured and bowed again, watching as Lu Xusheng and Cheng Yian entered the main gate of the South Mansion.

Inside the South Mansion, there were also courtyards, each mansion independently locked. Upon entering, there was a large hall with five rooms, inscribed with the words "Zhong Xian Hall," which served as the meeting hall of the South Mansion. Usually locked when not in use, bypassing the meeting hall and heading southwest led to the gate of the fourth branch.

Everyone welcomed the newlyweds across the threshold, where the scent of autumn chrysanthemums greeted them. Entering their own home, it became much livelier, with clusters of joyful laughter and long-missed hometown accents.

In her previous life, Cheng Yian had gone to Yizhou and had not returned to the capital for five years. Now, returning to her hometown, her heart was hard to contain.

Amidst her sighs, she saw two elders waiting in the main hall. The slightly older one was Cheng Yian's uncle, his face faintly showing excitement, his gaze fixed on Lu Xusheng.

And the other... was Cheng Yian's father, Second Master Cheng Mingyou of the fourth branch. He was tall and slender, standing with his hands behind his back on the steps, his face pale and cold, with high cheekbones and a thin layer of skin, his expression cold and devoid of any smile.

Meeting those emotionless eyes, Cheng Yian's heart ached slightly.

Cheng Yian's mother had passed away when she was still in swaddling clothes. Later, her father remarried and had a son and a daughter.

In Cheng Yian's memory, the four of them were a family, and she was the extra one.

Fortunately, her grandmother took pity on her and raised her on her lap, so she was not entirely neglected.

In her previous life, she never received a shred of affection from her father. He even avoided seeing her, always glancing at her face briefly before looking away.

Today was no different.

She never understood why her father did not favor her.

The newlyweds stepped forward to bow to the two elders.

The uncle was very enthusiastic, the third uncle was also polite, but her actual father was very cold.

Lu Xusheng glanced at Cheng Mingyou without showing any emotion. In his previous life, he had not noticed anything unusual about this father-in-law, as he was even colder. But in this life, he sensed something was wrong. How could someone be so indifferent to his own daughter?

Lu Xusheng stood up for Cheng Yian, feeling she was treated unfairly.

After some tea and socializing, Lu Xusheng took the initiative to speak with the eldest uncle,

"I will first accompany Yian to pay respects to the old lady, and then drink with the elders."

By custom, Cheng Mingyou should have accompanied his daughter and son-in-law to pay respects to the old lady at this time, but Cheng Mingyou ignored it and sat still.

The eldest uncle, Cheng Mingze, furious, quickly signaled the third uncle, so once again, the third uncle, Cheng Mingtong, led the couple to the inner quarters.

After the newlyweds left, the eldest uncle dismissed the servants and confronted Cheng Mingyou, asserting his authority as the elder brother,

"Why didn't you go?"

Cheng Mingyou sat in an armchair, lazily holding a wine cup, and gave him a cold look, full of sarcasm,

"Why didn't I go? Don't you know, elder brother?"

Seeing his questioning eyes, the eldest uncle's face turned red, and then he angrily waved his sleeve and scolded,

"You're being foolish; he's the emperor's favorite. With this son-in-law, you could strut around the capital. Even Cheng Mingyu from the north residence has to give you some face."

Cheng Mingyou had obviously heard this too many times. He turned his face away, impatient to listen.

The eldest uncle was even more angry, anxiously pacing back and forth in front of him,

"I warn you, put away your bad temper. You must give a smile; the future of our fourth branch hinges on this."

Cheng Mingyou remained unmoved.

Finally, the eldest uncle played his trump card,

"If you don't fall in line, I'll cut off Xia Shi's offerings tomorrow."

Xia Shi was Cheng Yian's mother. Cheng Mingyou had set up a memorial tablet for her at Chang'an Temple, which cost a lot of money every year, and the financial power of the residence was in the hands of the eldest uncle.

This really hit Cheng Mingyou's weak spot. He suddenly stood up, glared at the eldest uncle, and then stormed off to the backyard.

The eldest uncle watched his angry figure and took a long breath to calm himself.

There were many female relatives in the backyard. Cheng Mingyou did not go to the old lady's courtyard but waited in the flower hall, where Lu Xusheng would return after paying respects to the elders to attend the banquet.

But Lu Xusheng did not come.

"Why didn't you go?"

Lu Xusheng accompanied Cheng Yian to meet the old lady and others, then sat in the small mountain hall outside the old lady's courtyard and did not leave.

Lu Xusheng held a small blue and white porcelain cup, looking at Cheng Yian expressionlessly,

"He doesn't treat you well. Why should I give him face?"

The fragmented sunlight passed through the branches and slanted onto his face, the light and shadow covering his eyebrows, depicting a careless sharpness.

Lu Xusheng had a stubborn streak, refusing to indulge anyone.

Cheng Yian choked, glared at him, and said, "Don't make trouble."

Her rosy cheeks, framed by thick lashes and sparkling almond eyes, held a touch of coquettishness under the autumn light.

Lu Xusheng's heart seemed to stir. He set down the teacup and fixed her with a narrowed gaze, his expression plainly saying, "Just messing with you."

Cheng Yian's face turned bright red in an instant.

This guy was giving her attitude.

If he didn’t want to do something, no one could force him.

Cheng Yian had no choice but to ask a few younger brothers to join him for tea while she went inside to talk with her grandmother.

The elder master and the others waited endlessly, but Lu Xusheng never appeared. After asking around, they discovered he was sitting in the pavilion and realized there was tension.

The elder master shot Cheng Mingyou a stern glare.

"Who do you think he is, that you can act all high and mighty as his father-in-law? He’s the kind of guy who could get away with anything, even pulling the emperor’s beard. Who do you think you are?"

The elder master exchanged a meaningful look with the third master, Cheng Mingtong, and together they hauled Cheng Mingyou over.

From afar, Lu Xusheng noticed the masters heading his way and, not wanting to appear rude, finally went to meet them.