Chapter 25: Breathing by her ear made her shiver slightly from the tickle.

Chapter 25: Breathing by her ear made her shiver slightly from the tickle.

To Lin Yufan, Zhao Zhiao had a great appearance—tall and dashing.

Unfortunately, he was lacking in that department, but his cravings were intense.

When she used to work at the bookstore, she had read some psychology books. People like him, whose needs went unmet, often developed psychological quirks, even perversions.

Some might turn violent, while others with extreme sexual urges could become warped, even doing terrible things.

So, when Zhao Zhiao’s hand rested on her stomach, her heart tightened.

She didn’t dare move.

If he just kissed and nibbled, she could tolerate it, but if he went too far, she wasn’t willing to go along.

On second thought, she’d just arrived in Hong Kong; he likely wouldn’t show his true colors so quickly.

Sure enough, the hand on her stomach didn’t go any further.

After lying still for a while, the hand slowly withdrew, and she heard him turn over behind her, then everything went quiet.

Lin Yufan breathed a quiet sigh of relief. For now, the top priority was to get the property transferred as soon as possible.

Once the property was transferred, if he pushed too far, they could just live apart and go their separate ways.

Zhao Zhiao wouldn’t want a divorce, since it’s expensive in Hong Kong—he’d have to pay hefty alimony.

With these thoughts, she drifted off to sleep.

When Zhao Zhiao reached over, he noticed she was completely still, figuring she must be worn out from the trip.

He didn’t disturb her sleep.

When she woke up the next morning, Lin Yufan expected him to have already left, as usual.

But as she turned, she found herself staring into his just-opened eyes.

He was just waking up too, his eyes heavy, stretching slowly, with a lazy look on his face.

He was definitely better-looking than Zhao Lixiang.

"Want to get up for breakfast, or keep sleeping?" His voice was still low and hoarse from just waking up.

Lin Yufan had slept all afternoon yesterday and turned in early last night, making up for the sleep she’d lost during the days on the boat.

Besides, if she kept sleeping, would he have other ideas?

She murmured, "Let’s get up."

At that, Zhao Zhiao threw off the thin blanket, got up, and headed out.

Lin Yufan got up quickly, did a quick makeup, and headed downstairs.

As she came down the stairs, the housekeeper, Ms. Guan, greeted her in accented Mandarin, "Good morning, Madam."

Lin Yufan smiled and said, "Morning."

Breakfast was ready, but it wasn’t quite time to eat yet.

Cousin-in-law Qi Yunxin came over and spoke softly to Lin Yufan, "I almost forgot, the three concubines haven’t greeted you with tea yet."

Lin Yufan maintained her previous stance, "A simple introduction is enough; no need for kneeling and tea."

As they entered the hall, the three concubines had been waiting for a while.

Lin Yufan glanced over and suddenly remembered what Gui Xiang had said: one was short and plump, one was tall and thin, and the remaining one was bald but with a thick wig.

With the heads-up from Gui Xiang, Lin Yufan found that these three women weren’t unattractive, just... unique.

When they heard the First Madam had arrived, the Second Concubine and the Third Concubine stood up immediately.

The Fourth Concubine, who had been reading a novel, was pulled to her feet by the Second Concubine.

Since yesterday, they had heard from the servants how stunning the First Madam was, and upon seeing her in person, all three were struck silent.

If you looked at the First Madam’s features one by one, none would be considered exceptionally beautiful, but these not-so-exceptional features perfectly came together to depict a peerless beauty, one that even women found captivating.

Her fair and rosy skin looked so delicate it might bruise at a touch, clearly having been well-nourished recently.

It was unclear if it was jealousy, envy, or admiration.

No wonder Zhao Zhiao picked her.

Being beautiful, even if she became a widow, if she played her cards right, she would still have a bright future.

The plump Second Concubine was the smoothest, greeting with a smile, "First Madam!"

All three of them were older than Lin Yufan, and calling her "sister" would’ve felt awkward.

Lin Yufan gave a slight nod and smiled, saying, "Good morning!"

Qi Yunxin hurriedly introduced, "This is the Second Concubine, Geng Dongping, who is an excellent cook; this is the Third Concubine, Zhang Aiming, who has beautiful handwriting; and this is the Fourth Concubine, Chen Dandan..."

At this point, Qi Yunxin suddenly hesitated. What was Chen Dandan good at?

Chen Dandan had been eagerly anticipating how Qi Yunxin would introduce her, but...

The Second Concubine jumped in to save the day, teasing, "She loves to act coquettishly, argue, and read novels."

Chen Dandan pretended to be angry and hit the Second Concubine, "How do I argue?"

The tense mood instantly relaxed.

Lin Yufan noticed that the quietest one was the tall and thin Third Concubine, Zhang Aiming.

At this moment, Wang Junyao also came downstairs.

After everyone paid their respects and Wang Junyao and Lin Yufan were seated, the concubines eagerly awaited the tea offering.

Qi Yunxin smiled and said, "The First Madam and the First Madam have said that this is a new era, and there's no need to adhere to the old customs. Today, we will forgo the old rituals of kneeling and offering tea."

The concubines: "!"

The Second Concubine reacted quickly, saying with a smile, "Although times are progressing, traditions still remain. Hong Kong still follows the Qing legal code."

Lin Yufan smiled, "We are from Haicheng."

The concubines: "!"

Wang Junyao didn’t want to offend anyone, so she changed the subject: "First Madam and I brought some gifts from Haicheng for everyone."

After saying that, she called Hui Lan and Gui Xiang to bring the gifts, and the topic of serving tea was thus skipped over.

The concubines wanted to kneel but weren’t permitted, leaving them with no outlet for their grievances.

At breakfast time, Zhao Zhiao finally came down from his study.

He took his place as the head of the family, with Lin Yufan beside him, quietly eating her bowl of red date and fine rice porridge.

Today’s dim sum, sent from the teahouse, included two or three baskets of each variety, covering the entire table.

Zhao Zhiao glanced at Lin Yufan, evidently thinking her porridge wasn’t enough, and placed a plate of red rice rolls before her.

He said nothing, simply placing it in front of her.

Lin Yufan had tried red rice rolls in a past life and knew they contained shrimp, which she avoided, so she didn’t take any.

Noticing she didn’t take any, Zhao Zhiao set a basket of shrimp dumplings before her.

Lin Yufan: "..."

Just as she was about to speak, Zhao Lixiang, seated beside Wang Junyao, said, "She’s allergic to shrimp."

Zhao Zhiao’s expression darkened instantly.

Wang Junyao wanted to pinch her son under the table.

Zhao Lixiang, seemingly to provoke, stood and moved the red rice rolls and shrimp dumplings away, replacing them with a basket of char siu buns.

"Char siu buns are slightly sweet; they should suit your taste."

Everyone noticed, their gossipy glances darting around, but no one dared to speak.

Lin Yufan observed that Zhao Lixiang was usually composed, but around Zhao Zhiao, he’d always stir trouble.

The two brothers had a longstanding feud.

Everyone, including Wang Junyao, feared Zhao Zhiao, but Zhao Lixiang seemed unfazed in provoking him.

Noticing Zhao Zhiao’s growing displeasure, Lin Yufan quickly defused the tension, "I’m feeling a bit off today; I’ll skip the char siu buns."

Seeing the custard buns near Zhao Zhiao, she added, "Zhi Ao, could you pass me a custard bun?"

Only one basket of custard buns was on the table, out of Zhao Lixiang’s reach. He watched as Zhao Zhiao took a custard bun and set it on her plate.

Wang Junyao discreetly pinched her son, prompting Zhao Lixiang to change the subject by asking everyone’s plans.

Some suggested a boat trip, others the circus, and a few wanted to go horseback riding.

Lin Yufan wasn’t keen on going out; she knew Wang Junyao also preferred to rest first. Before she could speak, Zhao Zhiao interjected.

"They’re tired from traveling; let them rest for a few days."

The Fourth Concubine cooed, "It’s rare you’re free; I’d like you to spend more time with... the family."

Zhao Zhiao raised his eyelids slightly, "We’ll discuss it later."

Zhao Lixiang assumed his brother had exhausted Lin Yufan again last night, so he, as always, countered, "I’m not tired, Fourth Concubine; I’ll join you."

The Fourth Concubine grinned at Zhao Zhiao: "Are you going?"

Zhao Zhiao remained expressionless and silent.

Clearly, Zhao Zhiao wasn’t on board with them going out. The Second Concubine, ever the diplomat, said, "My feet are a bit uncomfortable, so I won’t go."

The Third Concubine, who usually doesn’t go out for social activities, said, "I’ve got to copy some scriptures at home, which must be offered to Buddha before the 15th."

Seeing her two companions bail on her, the Fourth Concubine wasn’t backing down, wanting to show that her status was different from the others, and that Zhao Zhiao needed to indulge her.

"If you’re not going, I will."

Second Uncle Zhao Yanhui stepped in to mediate, "Then let’s split into two groups. Those who are tired or busy can stay home, and those who aren’t tired can go out and play."

Zhao Jingxiu, new to the city, was brimming with curiosity. She smiled and whispered, "I want to go."

Since Zhao Lixiang would start working at the newspaper office tomorrow and would only have weekends free for outings, Zhao Zhiao reluctantly let them go out first.

In the end, only Zhao Lixiang, Chen Dandan, and Zhao Jingxiu went to the horse farm together.

Lin Yufan noticed that Chen Dandan, the Fourth Concubine, stood out from the other two concubines. She was more spoiled and daring.

Or perhaps it was because Zhao Zhiao favored her more?

*

After breakfast, Lin Yufan finally ran into Shen Te.

Shen Te was sharp. Without waiting for Lin Yufan to find him, he took the initiative to approach her and said, "First Madam, Mr. Zhao has instructed me to help you with the property transfer. When would it be convenient for you? I can call the lawyer to come and sign the agreement with you."

The sooner, the better—no time to waste!

Lin Yufan was surprised that for the wealthy, even property transfers were a breeze.

Not only could they hand it off to a lawyer, but the lawyer would even come to them.

Lin Yufan asked, "Can we do it today?"

"Today is fine, either in the morning or the afternoon, depending on your schedule."

"Let’s get it done this morning," Lin Yufan wanted to get it over with quickly.

Shen Te scheduled the lawyer for ten. Within half an hour, the agreement was signed. According to Lawyer Yan, the new deed could be obtained in as little as a week.

In a week, she’d officially be a wealthy woman.

Lin Yufan’s spirits lifted immediately.

After finishing this matter, Lin Yufan headed back to her room to relax and asked Gui Xiang to call Tie Long.

Lin Yufan was sipping tea and reading in the suite’s living room. When Tie Long entered, she looked up and handed him a note.

"Go to the end of Hunan Street in the Western District of Hong Kong Island and look for a private detective agency. I forgot the exact street number, but when you get there, you’ll see a small sign that says 'You Liao Private Detective'..."

Tie Long glanced at the address on the note, a bit confused: "Look for a private detective?"

"Yes, look for the owner of this detective agency. His name is Tu Laoliu."

Tu Laoliu was a big name in the detective world that Lin Yufan had encountered in her previous life while working at a magazine. At this time, Tu Laoliu’s fame hadn’t yet spread, so his fees should still be relatively low.

Lin Yufan handed over a letter and five hundred Hong Kong dollars: "Ask him to investigate Zhao Yanhui. The details and requirements are all written in the letter. Also, make sure he’s well-paid so he takes our case first."

"I’ve got a lead for the private detective. I’ll go right away..."

Before coming to Hong Kong, Lin Yufan had instructed Tie Long to keep an eye on Zhao Yanhui’s every move once he arrived.

So, Lin Yufan didn’t need to explain much.

Lin Yufan cut him off: "No rush, let’s eat lunch first."

Since there was no rush, Tie Long shared his findings with Lin Yufan: "I heard from the staff that Second Master Yan loves gambling, and he gambles big, risking his life. In March this year, Second Master Yan lost money at the casino and was detained. It was the Eldest Master who went to bail him out. The Eldest Master gave Second Master a stern warning that if he gambled again, he would be sent back to Haicheng."

Just like Zhao Zhiao’s father, Zhao Yanhui has a gambling problem—like father, like son.

Tie Long: "Despite his gambling habit, Second Master Yan has a good personality and is generous, so he’s very popular. Everyone, inside and out, likes him."

Lin Yufan figured Zhao Yanhui was the type who gambled recklessly, nice to everyone, but only tough on his wife at home.

After Tie Long left, Gui Xiang came in with the newspapers Lin Yufan had asked for.

Gui Xiang, another source of information, whispered, "Second Master Yan just had a fight with the Second Mistress."

Even Liu Fang, with her timid nature, could get into a fight?

Lin Yufan was curious: "Why did they fight?"

"Second Master Yan stormed out. The Second Mistress was crying in her room, and her cousin-in-law Yunxin was comforting her. Her maid, Juan’er, whispered to me that Second Master Yan complained about the Second Mistress having a smell. The Second Mistress got angry and accused Second Master Yan of having someone outside, naturally disliking her. The Second Mistress also said that if Second Master wanted to take a concubine, she wouldn’t oppose it, so why treat her like this." Gui Xiang, aware of Lin Yufan’s investigation, already thought Zhao Yanhui was no good.

Gui Xiang sighed: "The Second Mistress has no son. Second Master Yan will inevitably take a concubine sooner or later."

In today’s society, someone like Zhao Zhiao, wealthy and capable, marrying a few concubines would only earn him the reputation of a charming talent.

Unlike Zhao Zhiao, Zhao Yanhui, who relies on his nephew, taking a concubine would be seen as greedy and lustful!

Of course, not having a son gives him a good excuse.

Gui Xiang started to worry for Lin Yufan: "If those concubines have a son before you, it’ll be a huge problem."

With Zhao Zhiao’s impotence, Lin Yufan wasn’t concerned at all. She advised Gui Xiang: "Don’t waste your energy on these things."

"Miss, you’re too laid-back. You can’t just coast on being younger and prettier than the concubines. Didn’t you see Fourth Concubine flirting shamelessly this morning? I heard from others that she often behaves like this, and the son-in-law indulges her. That’s what it means to be the favorite!"

Lin Yufan flipped through the newspapers Gui Xiang brought and teased her: "Why are you sounding like an old woman all of a sudden?"

Gui Xiang couldn’t help but laugh: "Hong Yu and I share a dorm with an older sister who’s been working here for two years. She’s seen firsthand how favored Fourth Concubine is. Even if a young girl goes bald, the son-in-law doesn’t care—he’s head over heels for her."

Lin Yufan cringed: "Can you not be so cheesy?"

Lin Yufan picked a few of Gui Xiang’s favorite chocolates from the candy dish on the table and handed them to her: "Eat more sweets."

Gui Xiang smiled helplessly: "Miss, you’re not worried at all. The emperor’s calm, but the eunuch’s panicking."

Looking out the window, the sun had come out. Gui Xiang quickly called Hong Yu, and the two of them took the bed sheets and pillows from the bedroom to air them.

Gui Xiang complained: "This place is stuffy, hot, and damp, and the streets are run-down. It’s nowhere near as good as our Haicheng."

Hong Yu was more adaptable: "It’s nice here too—quiet, fresh air, and plenty of foreigners."

"What’s so good about having lots of foreigners..." The two maids chatted as they opened the door and went out.

After reading the papers, Lin Yufan headed downstairs to check on lunch.

As she passed the small room on the second floor, she happened to see Zhao Zhiao talking to a short middle-aged man.

Zhao Zhiao saw her and gestured for her to come over.

The short man turned out to be Qi Yunxin's husband, Kang Nian, Zhao Zhiao's maternal cousin.

Kang Nian was not only short but also had some pockmarks on his face, which didn't do much for his appearance. However, he was very reliable in his work and was the most trusted person among Zhao Zhiao's relatives.

After Zhao Zhiao introduced them to each other, he said to Lin Yufan, "Your properties are currently managed and rented out by Brother Nian. Do you want to manage them yourself, or continue to leave it to Brother Nian?"

It wasn't that Lin Yufan didn't trust Kang Nian, but she preferred the security of having full control over her own assets.

She smiled and said, "I just got here and I'm not familiar with anything..."

Kang Nian thought Lin Yufan was going to hand over the properties to him, but her next sentence was, "Once I have the property deeds, I'll discuss the handover with Brother Nian. There's still a lot I don't understand and will need your guidance, Brother Nian."

Kang Nian quickly smiled and said, "I wouldn't call it guidance. I'll definitely help with whatever I can."

Although Lin Yufan's properties were not many, they were all in good locations. If rented out properly, they could bring in a good income each year.

Kang Nian managed various properties under Zhao Zhiao's name and had extensive experience. She would need to consult him when necessary.

"Thanks, Brother Nian."

Kang Nian was very humble, "I work for Zhi Ao, so it's my job."

After Kang Nian went downstairs, Zhao Zhiao closed a file in his hand and glanced at his wife, saying, "Before, my mother managed things in Haicheng, and here it was Sister-in-law Yunxin. Now that we're married, you're the lady of the house. Do you want me to take back the management rights or not?"

Lin Yufan countered, "Do you want me to take them back or not?"

She was sitting right next to him, and from Zhao Zhiao's angle, her soft profile naturally gave off a gentle vibe.

He didn't know her all that well, but from their few interactions, she wasn't just a simple, gentle, traditional housewife.

She used a guest's visit to get her things back from Zhao Lijie; she helped Liang Yue, a stranger, out of a dangerous situation; she was willing to marry him even though he had three concubines, all for the dowry...

That was good.

At least, she was a vibrant woman with flesh and blood.

His eyes drifted downward, noticing the curves of her figure.

He caught his breath, then quickly looked away, and gave a suggestion, "Running the household can be exhausting, and you're not familiar with this place yet. You might as well focus on the big picture and let Sister-in-law Yunxin play the role of Wang Xifeng, while you stay behind as Madame Wang."

Madame Wang usually ate vegetarian food and chanted Buddha's name, not bothering with anything, just enjoying her life, but she could still wield authority at critical moments. That was indeed good.

Lin Yufan smiled and replied, "But I don't eat vegetarian food or chant Buddha's name."

"What are your thoughts?"

Lin Yufan said, "Then I'll follow your advice and leave the household affairs to Sister-in-law. But I'm afraid I'll get bored staying at home alone."

"You didn't get bored all those years in the Second Branch."

"How do you know I wasn't bored?"

Zhao Zhiao was momentarily speechless. He paused before saying, "Then go on."

"If I get the chance, I'd like to work outside." Lin Yufan had her own plans; she wanted to engage with society as soon as possible.

Even if Zhao Zhi Ao were to have an accident in the future and life changes, she wouldn’t be left in the dark and at the mercy of those around him.

Owning property alone is not enough; she also needs some social experience and connections to ensure she can truly live a comfortable and privileged life in the future.

Zhao Zhi Ao had never imagined his wife would want to work outside the home.

After all, she only said "if there’s an opportunity." For a woman like her, who had rarely left her home except for school, he couldn’t imagine what job she could handle.

Although she knew a little English, the two years of English she studied at the Haicheng Girls' School would be insufficient for the Hong Kong job market.

Though he thought this, he couldn’t outright discourage her, "What kind of job do you want to do?"

Lin Yufan wanted to work at a novel publishing house and, if possible, open her own publishing house in the future. To do what she wanted.

She feared that revealing her goal too early might arouse Zhao Zhi Ao’s suspicion, so she simply said, "Something related to writing, I haven’t decided yet."

"Then let’s talk about it when there’s an opportunity. Working outside might be more exhausting than managing the household. Later, I’ll inform the accountant that for household expenses, anything under 10,000, you can approve."

10,000 Hong Kong dollars was a significant amount at that time. When she worked at the bookstore, even at her peak, she only earned 200 Hong Kong dollars monthly.

That was after a salary increase. She still remembered that when she first started, it was only 80 Hong Kong dollars, and it was often delayed.

Of course, she knew that the likelihood of household expenses exceeding 10,000 was low. Granting her this authority was a gesture of respect for her role as the lady of the house.

Lin Yufan didn’t say much more, but she was in a good mood.

He could see she was happy. He had been worried she wouldn’t adjust to living in Hong Kong, but now it seemed his worries were unnecessary.

*

At lunch, Zhao Yanhui wasn’t there. Second Madam Liu Fang came out to eat as usual, her face showed no trace of tears, though she forced a smile.

Lin Yufan wasn’t sure how to comfort her, and Wang Junyao could only pretend not to notice.

Only Qi Yunxin occasionally served Second Madam Liu Fang some dishes.

"Second Madam, you’re far too thin. You need to eat more to gain some weight."

Though Liu Fang disliked meat, she obediently ate two pieces.

After lunch, Qi Yunxin brought the accountant to report the financial status of the Zhao family estate to Lin Yufan.

The largest daily expenses were staffing and food costs.

Staffing costs included allowances for family members. First Madam received 2,000 Hong Kong dollars each month; the three concubines received 1,000 each; Second Madam and Third Miss Zhao Jingxiu, as guests, received 200; Qi Yunxin, as the manager, received 400, and the remaining staff were paid based on their actual salaries, ranging from 50 to 300 Hong Kong dollars.

Food expenses were kept under 5,000 Hong Kong dollars monthly.

Calculating this way, the Zhao family estate’s monthly expenses exceeded 20,000.

It was indeed a large household with significant expenses.

She never had any allowance in the Second Branch. It was good enough that those people didn’t try to take her money.

Qi Yunxin said, "These are the monthly expenses. The accountant’s income primarily comes from the rental income of properties Zhao Zhi Ao has invested in over the years, bringing in 30,000 to 40,000 monthly. At the end of the year, if there’s any surplus, it’s saved in Zhao Zhi Ao’s account. If the rental income isn’t enough to cover expenses, Zhao Zhi Ao will make up the difference."

Lin Yufan only glanced at these accounts briefly, offering no comments.

Qi Yunxin suggested reporting the expenses to her weekly and summarizing them monthly.

Lin Yufan agreed, and it was settled.

During her lunch break, Lin Yufan returned to her room with nothing to do and decided to look for some books to read.

Zhao Zhiao had two study rooms, one on the second floor and one on the third floor.

Lin Yufan wasn’t sure which one had more books, so she knocked on the door of the study on the second floor.

"Come in."

She opened the door just in time to see Zhao Zhiao tilting his head back to swallow a pill.

Zhao Zhiao thought it was Kang Nian or Shen Te who came in, but to his surprise, it was Lin Yufan. He was taken aback, and the water in his throat choked him.

Cough, cough, cough, cough, cough, cough!

The boss choked on the water and coughed awkwardly.

Lin Yufan couldn’t help but wonder, what kind of medicine was he taking?

He seemed so guilty—could it be that kind of medicine?

Why take it at noon?

Lin Yufan didn’t dare ask, so she quickly said, "I wanted to see if there are any books here that I could borrow."

Borrow? How polite.

Zhao Zhiao coughed a few more times and nodded toward the opposite bookshelf, "They’re all up there. You can come in and take whatever books you want to read in the future."

Lin Yufan quickly grabbed a few leisure books from the shelf and was about to head back to her room when she sensed movement behind her.

She felt breath near her ear, making her shiver slightly.

In the middle of the day, in the study, she suddenly grew nervous. She wondered, could the medicine already be taking effect?