Chapter 71

Chapter 71

On the day of the winter solstice festival, Jin Niang let Zhu Xiuniang leave half an hour early and even gave her two fish, a chicken, and a box of pastries. Zhu Xiuniang was thrilled. During her time at Wei’s Embroidery Shop, not only were her wages paid on time, but she also received extra pay for more work. The shop provided ice in summer, charcoal in winter, and gifts for every seasonal festival—she was very pleased indeed.

“Thank you, madam! Thank you!” Zhu Xiuniang said.

Jin Niang smiled. “No need to thank me. Go home early and enjoy the festival with your husband.”

Zhu Xiuniang nodded. “Yes.”

After Zhu Xiuniang left, Jin Niang continued working on a lined fur coat, sewing a deep purple satin outer layer embroidered with the Three Friends of Winter—pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms—over tiger fur. It was for Jiang Xian. Since he had entrusted his funds to her, she couldn’t let him go cold now, could she?

Xi Qiu came in from the kitchen and said, “Madam, the dishes are almost ready.”

“Mm, we’ll eat when my husband returns,” Jin Niang replied without looking up.

A Ying rubbed her stomach. “Madam, why isn’t master back yet? I’m getting hungry.”

“After returning to the Jiang family home, he still has to deliver gifts all around. How could he be back so soon? Go buy some hot cakes from the alley to tide you over first. We’ll keep the shop open a while longer,” Jin Niang said with a laugh.

Hearing this, A Ying quickly hopped off her stool and went out to buy something to eat.

Meanwhile, Jiang Xian was at the Zhou residence. He had first returned home, then delivered winter solstice gifts to several branches of his clan living in the capital, followed by visits to Chancellor Liu, Academician Huang, and Han Xiao’s homes, finally arriving at the Zhou family.

As it happened, both Jiang Shi and Zhou Cunzhi were there, and they struck up a conversation with him.

Jiang Shi asked how he was doing, and Jiang Xian assured her everything was fine.

“We’ve been living in Sweetwater Lane since leaving home. My niece’s family takes good care of us, so don’t worry.”

Zhou Cunzhi said, “If you ever need help, just send someone to our door.”

Jiang Xian smiled. “Second Brother, don’t worry—I won’t hesitate to ask.” Then, turning to Jiang Shi, he added, “I’ll head off now and not disturb your family’s winter solstice celebration.”

Jiang Shi nodded, and Zhou Cunzhi escorted Jiang Xian out. The cousins chatted a bit more as they walked, and Zhou Cunzhi mentioned, “Ninth Uncle said he got some white Huai fish—a prized local fish—from your place last time?”

“Yes, a trader brought them to exchange with my wife. Cousin, would you like some too? Unfortunately, we’re out now. But there’s a tavern nearby that makes excellent vinegar-marinated crabs. Why don’t you come to my place sometime? We’ll order some and chat—we won’t even drink. How does that sound?” Jiang Xian suggested.

He expected Zhou Cunzhi to decline, but to his surprise, his cousin readily agreed. Zhou Cunzhi also took the opportunity to warn him: “I heard Gong Ziliang once wanted to take your wife as his second wife. You should be careful.”

Jiang Xian froze for a moment before quickly regaining his composure and thanking Zhou Cunzhi.

Leaving the Zhou residence, Jiang Xian felt a mix of emotions. He had fallen for his wife at first sight—not just because of her beauty, but because of the passion and focus she showed when talking about her embroidery. She had even insisted that she would continue running the embroidery shop after marriage, or she wouldn’t agree to wed.

He had always known he was handsome and clever, quick to memorize books, and doted on by his parents. By the age of fifteen, many girls had taken a liking to him. Though his family wasn’t particularly distinguished, he came from a scholarly background.

He never expected a woman to value him above all others.

Especially after moving to Sweetwater Lane, he increasingly realized his wife had principles, boundaries, and steadfastness without stubbornness. She was neither meek nor arrogant. With such qualities and her beauty, how could she not attract admirers?

But he hadn’t expected *that man* Gong Ziliang to have once coveted his wife.

And he had just heard Gong Ziliang lost his wife last month…

“Old Luo, hurry up. I need to get back quickly,” he urged.

Old Luo flicked the whip, and by the time Jiang Xian returned, the embroidery shop was about to close. Jin Niang had just finished sewing the fur coat. Seeing him enter, she quickly said, “Just in time! Come try this on.”

“Another new outfit? Why don’t you rest a bit, dear?” Jiang Xian hurried over and embraced her.

Winter was approaching, and Jin Niang smiled and said, “I can’t sit for long periods anymore. While I still can, I’ll make a fur-lined jacket first. This fabric was specially saved for you, and the fur comes from that tiger skin you saw last time. I noticed you already have a sable coat and a lynx-fur trimmed robe, so it’s perfect to make something new for rotation.”

Winter attire was the easiest way to judge someone's wealth. Last year, Jin Niang had worn a sheepskin coat, but this year she planned to make a deerskin jacket—much sturdier against the wind than padded or cotton robes.

“You’re too good to me, my lady,” Jiang Xian said, feeling almost embarrassed, as if he didn’t deserve such kindness.

Jin Niang poked his cheek. “Why do you always say that? If our Shiliulang passes the imperial exams someday, people might say I married up.”

Jiang Xian scratched his head. “But what if it takes me ten or twenty years—or even a lifetime, like my father—and I never pass?”

“What does it matter? We have one shop collecting rent, another I manage, and 150 mu of land. We may not be wealthy, but we’ll never go hungry.” Jin Niang knew she had a strong-willed nature, and marrying someone too domineering would only lead to conflict.

Jiang Xian was deeply moved but unexpectedly asked, “Is this how you’d treat any husband, or is it just me?”

“Of course it’s because you’re you that I treat you well. If you were a bad husband, I wouldn’t bother with you,” Jin Niang replied calmly.

Jiang Xian immediately vowed, “I’ll treat you even better from now on, wife.”

“Goodness, you step out once and come back saying all this. Let’s hurry and eat,” Jin Niang laughed.

On the day of the winter solstice, Yang Geer was also home. Knowing his brother-in-law couldn’t handle alcohol, he specially bought two kinds of drinks. The table was full of dishes, and the plump white dumplings before Jin Niang looked especially delicious. She took a bite and unexpectedly found a copper coin inside.

“Jin Niang, out of a hundred dumplings, Ju Xiang only hid three coins, and you got one! Our daughter is sure to have good fortune next year,” Luo Yue chuckled.

Jin Niang smiled at her mother. “All I wish is for everyone’s health and safety.”

Everyone was in high spirits.

With Jiang Xian around, Yang Geer had someone to guide his studies. The two became very close, much to Jin Niang’s relief. Her family’s means were modest, and her brother often struggled to find guidance—this arrangement worked perfectly.

A Ying thought to herself that Jin Niang truly had a talent for dealing with people. By treating her husband well, he in turn treated the Wei family even better. Had she oppressed him, constantly reminding him of her favors, a capable man like Jiang Xian would surely have resented it.

Getting along with others was an art in itself.

After the winter solstice, Jin Niang focused on making cotton jackets, fur-lined jackets, and bridal trousseau items. Today, she was embroidering a pillowcase with a design of bamboo, plum blossoms, and double happiness (shuāngxǐ) motifs.

She intended to finish by noon, so she worked diligently without looking up.

Suddenly, an elderly woman entered with a young boy. The woman was finely dressed, clearly from a wealthy background. Although Jin Niang was pregnant, her loose winter clothes concealed it well.

The boy was well-behaved, so Jin Niang had someone bring a tray of snacks and introduced to the old woman, “The magpie-and-peony fabric you’ve chosen is excellent. In my opinion, it’s best suited for a collar panel with peony branch patterns, all trimmed in gold thread—that would truly do it justice.”

Impressed by Jin Niang’s detailed explanation, sketches, elegant handwriting, and patience, the old woman couldn’t help but ask, “Might you be spoken for yet, young lady?”

Jin Niang pointed to her hair. “I’m a married woman.”

The old woman sighed in disappointment. “My eldest son is a county magistrate in Heze. His first wife passed away, and I’m too old to raise his child alone. Seeing how meticulous, refined, and fortunate-looking you are, I had hoped… but you’re already wed.”

She had noticed Jin Niang’s fine attire, her skill in managing the shop, and her striking beauty—never imagining she was truly married.

“You honor me with your words. Raising a son who serves as a local official is truly admirable. If you place an order here, I’ll gift you a pair of embroidered pouches,” Jin Niang offered with a smile.

Initially hesitant, the old woman, tempted by the pouches and Jin Niang’s exquisite designs, finally spent five guan and three qian to place the order.

Jin Niang wrote her a receipt and, noticing the boy’s fondness for the snacks, stuffed a handful into his pocket.

She considered it a minor incident, but when Jiang Xian found out, he was nearly in tears—first a potential rival like Gong Ziliang, and now an elderly woman promoting her son.

What next—a marriage proposal from the Emperor?

Therefore, Jin Niang was surprised to find herself drinking soup made by Jiang Xian’s own hands the next day. She whispered in astonishment, “Isn’t it said that a gentleman should stay away from the kitchen?”

Jiang Xian laughed, “Who’d dare criticize me for cooking dumplings for my wife? Try it—I spent the whole morning learning from Ju Xiang and Xi Qiu.”

Jin Niang thought it looked decent but worried it might be inedible—after all, she was pregnant. She gave him a doubtful look. “Darling, have you tasted it yourself?”

“Of course! If I hadn’t eaten it first, how could I give it to you?” Jiang Xian replied eagerly.

Jin Niang scooped up a dumpling with her spoon and popped it into her mouth. Hmm, it actually tasted good.

The dumplings were filled with lean meat, garnished with scallions and pepper, and seasoned just right. She took bite after bite, touched by the gesture. “My husband is the absolute best.”

Flustered by her praise, Jiang Xian said modestly, “You’re too kind.” Then he smiled at her. “If you like it, I’ll make it again.”

Cooking really seemed to come naturally to him. While Jin Niang’s skills barely extended beyond not burning food, Jiang Xian picked it up effortlessly—even finding it simple.

They grew even closer as a result. When Jiang Xian mentioned that Zhou Cunzhi might pay a visit and that he had already arranged the meal, Jin Niang left everything to him.

Zhou Cunzhi, having served as an official for years, was no longer the same man he once was. He arrived bearing many gifts and noted that although the house was small, it was neat and well-kept—white walls, peach trees, bamboo clustered near the study, and servants serving tea and snacks smoothly.

“A quiet spot in the middle of the chaos—lovely,” Zhou Cunzhi remarked.

Jiang Xian smiled. “Brother Zhou, taste this tea. The water here is especially sweet.”

Zhou Cunzhi took a sip and nodded appreciatively. “Mmm, good.”

Their conversation turned to scholarly matters, and they got along well. Jiang Xian then called his younger brother-in-law Yang Geer over to introduce him.

Yang Geer was sincere but shy, not very skilled in socializing. Jiang Xian hoped this would help him gain confidence, so no one could take advantage of his shyness—because if people sensed fear or hesitation, they would immediately know your weakness.

Yang Geer bowed quickly. Zhou Cunzhi exchanged a few words with him, then kindly gave him a jade pendant from his belt as a gift. He gently asked about Yang Geer’s studies and, though the boy fumbled his words, offered encouragement instead of harsh words.

Jiang Xian told Yang Geer, “Second Brother Zhou is an imperial scholar. You must listen carefully to what he says.”

Yang Geer hurriedly agreed before being excused. Jiang Xian then showed Zhou Cunzhi some of his recent essays, which Zhou read and discussed with him.

By noon, lunch was served. Jin Niang also came out specially to greet their guest. Her pregnancy showed more in her walk than from behind—her belly wasn’t obvious when viewed from the back.

“No need for bows, Sister-in-law,” Zhou Cunzhi said quickly.

Jin Niang smiled. “My husband told me you like white bream fish. Unfortunately, we’ve run out this time, but I’ll keep an eye out and ask him to send some over when available.”

Jin Niang didn’t notice, but Zhou Cunzhi was deeply moved by her thoughtfulness, unable to hide his delight. “Then I’ll trouble you, Sister-in-law.”

She missed the look on his face because she was bowing, and soon excused herself. Jiang Xian, however, noticed everything—not because he suspected Zhou Cunzhi, but because he was always alert to anyone around his wife. Still, he showed nothing on the surface, continuing their lively discussion as before.

As Zhou Cunzhi prepared to leave, Jiang Xian put on a fur coat and joked with mock frustration, “My wife has made me far too many clothes—there’s no way I can wear them all. This year is clearly a warm winter, yet I’m sweating under these layers. But if I don’t wear them, she’ll worry I’ll catch a chill. What can you do? Women!”

Zhou Cunzhi smiled faintly. “Seeing how well Sister-in-law treats you, my mother needn’t worry anymore.”

“Please assure Aunt that I’m doing well. I’ve always loved my wife, and now she… Well, tell her not to worry about me,” Jiang Xian said, blushing slightly as he spoke of his wife’s affection.

Zhou Cunzhi left looking a little lonely.

But Jiang Xian entered his study with a cold expression, grinding ink and writing in one swift motion.

Jin Niang didn’t know any of this. She only heard Yang Geer mention that Jiang Xian had introduced him to someone, so she said to Yang Geer, "Your brother-in-law missed the imperial exams this year due to mourning, but his character, conduct, talent, and innate abilities are all exceptional. You should remember to learn more from him."

Yang Geer also showed her the gift Zhou Cunzhi had given him. Jin Niang said, "Since it was given to you, take good care of it."

"Alright," Yang Geer replied, carefully putting it away.

Soon, the Laba Festival arrived. Rong Niang personally came to deliver Laba porridge, saying to Jin Niang, "You should know, I made this porridge myself. I handpicked every lotus seed, soaked them overnight, and then boiled them. Smell it—it’s fragrant, isn’t it? I also added hazelnuts."

Jin Niang took a whiff. "It really is fragrant."

Rong Niang laughed. "Even if you love it, don’t eat too much. Too many beans can make you gassy." Then she asked Jin Niang if she had prepared for the midwife.

Speaking of the midwife, Jin Niang sighed. "We originally found one, but a few days ago, we heard she got drunk and nearly caused a woman’s death during childbirth. We had to find someone else."

Childbirth itself wasn’t the issue—it was all the prep and cleanup that were the most tedious. But maybe it’s best not to dwell on it.

Rong Niang sat for a while longer before excusing herself, saying she had other matters to attend to. Jin Niang watched her leave with a puzzled look.

After finishing half the Laba porridge, Jin Niang yawned and noticed Madam Feng from the dye shop on East Street had arrived. It was said Madam Feng came from a scholarly family but married a dye shop proprietor after her family fell into decline. But she still acted like a scholar’s daughter.

A Ying had once gone to her house to take measurements for clothes and claimed to have accidentally seen Madam Feng getting cozy with her cousin. Since then, Jin Niang had avoided sending people to her home. Yet here she was.

"Madam Feng, we have new stock recently. Come take a look," A Ying stood up to introduce.

Madam Feng glanced at A Ying. "I was going to have you come to my place. A respectable woman like me doesn’t go out much. But since you wouldn’t come, I had to come myself."

A Ying thought to herself, *You put on such airs, always preaching about virtue, but you’re rotten inside. Look at my mistress—she runs a business but has never behaved improperly with any man. How dare you say such things?*

But keeping up appearances, she immediately smiled and offered an excuse. "Our boss is pregnant, so I can’t leave here. Please don’t take offense. Have some tea while you look around."

It turned out Madam Feng wanted to buy a tube top. In truth, Jin Niang’s shop was best known for its tube tops, but many women were too shy to even look at them. Madam Feng picked out a bright pink triangular-folded one embroidered with mandarin ducks playing in water. This tube top had been sitting unsold for half a year—most thought it was too racy. Yet today, Madam Feng bought it.

"Five qian," A Ying said.

Madam Feng paid and left.

A Ying whispered, "I heard Madam Feng’s husband is swamped at the dye workshop. Who’s this really for?"

*Ahem*, less gossip, Jin Niang chided. Then she thought of Rong Niang. Rong Niang dressed as plainly as her mother, relying on natural beauty, but today her hairpin was from Qiongzhen Pavilion—their jewelry cost a fortune. Last time, Jiang Xian bought her a pair of gold bracelets with lotus clusters for eighteen strings of cash.

If Feng Sheng bought it, fine. But if someone else had, Rong Niang was being far too bold.

She worried Rong Niang might be falling into Feng Sheng’s schemes. Would Rong Niang come crying to us again?

With this in mind, Jin Niang confided in Luo Yue, "Do you know how things are between my elder sister and her husband now?"

Luo Yue pondered for a moment before admitting, "Even though they threatened to split up last time, they’ve since reconciled. Think about it—they have two children. Your sister is beautiful, meticulous, and can cook seven or eight different dishes. Your brother-in-law is over thirty. In the end, men just want a woman to wait on them."

"I’m in no shape to help. Please keep an eye on her. Otherwise, if something happens, she’ll come asking for your help again," Jin Niang said.

Luo Yue could only nod.

As she stepped out, she saw Xu Shi had also sent someone with Laba porridge and fresh fruit—her right-hand woman, Ge Ma. Ge Ma had accompanied Xu Shi once before, back when Jin Niang was betrothed. Now, seeing the embroidery shop’s struggling business and Jin Niang, heavily pregnant, still doing needlework, Ge Ma thought to herself, *What a shame.*

It seemed Wei Shi was merely faking it. The thought brought her some relief.

"How’s business, madam?" Ge Ma asked.

Not wanting to appear well-off, Jin Niang quickly replied, "Just getting by. There are so many embroidery shops around here. Mine is small—we can’t take on big orders, and folks think our prices are too steep. What can I say?"

Ge Ma smiled and said, "You're too modest, Madam. Everyone knows your embroidery is priceless. You're teasing me."

"Why would I tease you? I truly wish to earn more," Jin Niang continued stitching.

Initially skeptical, Ge Ma stayed for about an hour but saw no customers arrive. She quickly returned to report to Xu Shi: "I waited there for ages, but the place was completely deserted—no business at all."

Xu Shi finally relaxed. "I always suspected she was pretending before, trying to make her mother-in-law believe she was rich. Now the truth is out—she's shown her real side."

Both mistress and servant were delighted.

Meanwhile, as the New Year approached, Uncle Luo and his son arrived with grain harvested from 150 acres of land, delivering it to Sweetwater Lane. Jin Niang instructed them to store it in the warehouse—about eighteen dan in total—and then called Ju Xiang over. "Store half and use half—and make sure it lasts. If we waste now, we won't have enough during hard times."

She even entrusted Ju Xiang with the warehouse key. Feeling deeply trusted, Ju Xiang added, "Don't worry, I'll manage the kitchen well for you."

Jin Niang laughed. "Just like a grain depot supervisor—Ju Xiang is my chief steward now. I'll raise your wage to five qian."

This encouragement strengthened Ju Xiang's determination to manage the household diligently.

Luo Mama observed this and told her daughter-in-law, "You look down on the menial tasks Madam gives you, but if you can't handle those, don't expect better work later. Look at Ju Xiang—she started just as a kitchen maid, yet now she oversees the warehouse, kitchen, and laundry. Even Xi Qiu takes orders from her."

Her daughter-in-law recalled how Jin Niang's first task for her had been thoroughly cleaning the courtyard and latrine, even insisting on burning sandalwood there for complete cleanliness. She hated every minute of it.

But now, without starting from the bottom, she was nothing. No work, no pay.

Seeing Ju Xiang's wage rise to five qian while she earned nothing, she immediately grabbed a brush and water bucket and headed to the latrine.

Jin Niang noticed the servants' efforts. She had no patience for those who aimed too high—even Jiang family servants wouldn't be kept idle on her payroll.

After all, she herself still did embroidery despite being pregnant.

From the Laba Festival to New Year’s Eve, the days passed quickly. Jin Niang finally completed an embroidered floral bird skirt and told Chen Xiaolang and A Ying, "Deliver this together to Madam Song."

A Ying remarked, "You spent a whole month on this skirt—you can feel the craftsmanship."

The satin skirt, wrapped in a gauze pouch, looked delicate and dreamy.

This single skirt alone was worth thirty guan. Combined with Zhu Xiuniang's sale of a ten-guan wedding bed cover and an eight-guan set of powder puffs, plus other small earnings, the month's income totaled fifty-six guan.

At least we’re set for the New Year, she thought.

"Madam," Jiang Xian called.

Jin Niang turned to see him bringing dinner: stir-fried king oyster mushrooms with meat, braised pomfret, steamed clams with egg, and millet-yam porridge.

She smiled. "Did you learn these new dishes yourself?"

Setting down the tray, Jiang Xian chuckled, "Funny—I’d never touched a knife before, but wanting to cook for you made me learn fast. Madam, knowing you prefer subtle yet flavorful food—please taste it."

Jin Niang nodded gratefully. "Thank you, husband."

This warm winter surely foretold a lucky year ahead.