Chapter 23 The Ten Thousand Words Chapter

Chapter 23: A Long Chapter

In the front courtyard, Li Jinhui and Li Jinrong had already returned from their errands. Without wasting time on conversation, they washed their hands and had been inside the inner room for a while.

Jian Ru sat dazedly in a chair in the outer room. The bloodstains on his hands had been wiped clean by the Second Young Master, but traces still dotted his clothes.

When he saw Jin He off in the morning, he had noticed that his eldest sister-in-law looked unwell—even worse than in previous days—but there had been no chance to ask in detail.

Later, Jian Ru made a batch of sour jujube cakes, thinking of bringing some for his eldest sister-in-law to try while checking on her.

When he entered the room, Li Qinglan was tidying up the clothes she had changed out of, preparing to wash them later.

The Li family lived frugally. Aside from the Second Young Master, who needed care due to his condition, each branch of the family managed their own chores, except for cooking and basic cleaning.

After becoming familiar with Jian Ru, Li Jinhui had even complained to him in private about how stingy her mother was, saying that her husband Zhao Pin had scrubbed the children’s clothes until his fingers were raw.

Seeing her brother-in-law arrive, Li Qinglan set aside her tasks and greeted him with a smile, inviting him to sit inside.

The two sat by the window. Li Qinglan poured water for Jian Ru from a teapot, while he observed her complexion and frowned. “Eldest Sister-in-law, you don’t look well. Has my elder brother checked your pulse recently?”

Li Qinglan shook her head. “I’m fine. Lately, he’s been busy preparing for his trip and managing the clinic, so I didn’t mention it. I just haven’t been sleeping well. Later, I’ll ask Jin Rong to bring me some herbs to calm the nerves. That should help.”

Jian Ru noticed her pale, almost ashen complexion, which seemed no better than when Li Jintong was ill. “When Elder Sister and Second Sister return this evening, you should let them check your pulse carefully.”

Li Qinglan agreed.

Feeling slightly reassured, Jian Ru pushed the food container he had brought onto the table. “I made some sour jujube cakes. I brought some for you to try.”

Li Qinglan smiled. “Xiao Ru, you have such skills? I must try them.” As she spoke, she reached to open the food container.

Jian Ru modestly demurred, “They’re not very good, but I hope you’ll like them.”

But before the box was fully open, Li Qinglan suddenly froze. Her face turned deathly pale, and cold sweat beaded on her forehead.

Jian Ru was startled. He watched as Li Qinglan looked down in disbelief at her lower body, then reached down to check. When she raised her hand again, it was covered in fresh blood.

Jian Ru cried out, “Eldest Sister-in-law!” and leaped up to support her as she collapsed.

But Li Qinglan, wracked with abdominal pain, had no strength left. Though Jian Ru was strong, he couldn’t get a proper grip and slipped down with her. Fortunately, he managed to cushion her fall, preventing her from hitting the ground directly.

Pinned under her, Jian Ru was too panicked to feel any pain. He scrambled out from under Li Qinglan and shouted, “Help! Someone, help!”

A voice answered, and someone rushed in—it was Old Lady Wang, who had been washing clothes outside.

Old Lady Wang took one look and exclaimed, “The lady has had a miscarriage! Young Madam, hurry to the backyard and get help. I’ll stay here with her.”

Without even putting on his padded robe, Jian Ru ran to the main house in the backyard to summon help. After alerting everyone, he rushed back to the front courtyard, worried that Old Lady Wang couldn’t manage alone.

Hearing the news, Madam Li got out of bed, stumbling and nearly falling before Granny Jin steadied her.

Li Jintong, anxious and concerned about Jian Ru’s pale, frightened appearance in his thin clothing, said, “I’ll go check on Eldest Sister-in-law first. I’ll send Xiao Ning to fetch someone from the clinic.”

Madam Li forced herself to stay composed. “We must send for Jin Feng. He shouldn’t have gone too far in half a day.”

Li Jintong was already heading out. “When Elder Sister and the others return, I’ll ride out to catch up with him.”

Madam Li shook her head firmly. “You cannot go!” She turned to Granny Jin. “Go to Second Uncle’s house and find his eldest son. Have him catch up and escort Jin He in Jin Feng’s place.”

Granny Jin acknowledged the order and hurried to put on her padded robe.

Hearing this, Li Jintong paused but said nothing more. He hurried out of the courtyard, instructed Xiao Ning, and then rushed to his elder brother’s quarters in the front courtyard.

By the time he arrived, Jian Ru and Old Lady Wang had already moved Li Qinglan to the bed and cleaned her up briefly.

By then, Li Qinglan was no longer in pain, but her face was terrifyingly pale, and her breathing was weak.

Li Jintong pulled a chair to the bedside, sat down, and took Li Qinglan’s wrist to check her pulse. After a while, he examined her complexion.

Jian Ru asked anxiously, “How is she?”

Li Jintong shook his head. “She should be fine, but her complexion is pale, and her pulse is floating, large, and soft—hollow on the inside but firm on the outside—a clear hollow pulse. The miscarriage has caused blood loss and depleted her Yin energy. She’ll need to rest and recover gradually to fully restore herself.”

“What should we do now?” Jian Ru asked again.

Li Jintong thought for a moment, then went to the desk. After examining the various bottles and jars, he selected one, uncorked it, sniffed it, and handed it to Jian Ru. “This is a Salvia pill. Place one under Eldest Sister-in-law’s tongue to help restore some strength. Then heat some water. Elder Sister and the others should be here soon. We’ll wait for them to take over.”

Old Lady Wang acknowledged and hurried to the outer room to boil water.

Jian Ru went to administer the pill, while Li Jintong stayed only briefly indoors. After instructing them to call him if anything changed, he went to the outer room.

The fetus might not have been fully expelled, and further treatment was needed. They had to wait for his elder sisters to return. Since the situation wasn’t critical yet, it was inappropriate for him to handle it.

Sure enough, shortly after he left, his elder sisters returned, and Jian Ru was relieved of his duties.

In just the short time it took to drink a cup of tea, Jian Ru had exhausted himself without realizing it.

Coupled with the shock, he hadn’t felt it earlier, but now, sitting in the chair, he was slow to regain his composure.

Li Jintong knelt before him, took a small bottle from his robe, applied some ointment to his fingertips, and gently massaged it into Jian Ru’s temples.

The cool sensation gradually revived Jian Ru’s spirits.

Old Lady Wang came and went, carrying in hot water and carrying out water mixed with blood.

Jian Ru’s eyes flickered nervously. He grabbed Li Jintong’s hand and asked, “Will Eldest Sister-in-law be all right?”

Li Jintong assured him, “She will be fine.”

Jian Ru finally let out a sigh of relief, gradually relaxing.

Sure enough, not long after, Li Jinhui emerged from the room.

Seeing her younger brother and his husband waiting outside, she sighed deeply. “The fetus was about two months along. Jin Feng is so careless—he’s a physician himself, yet he didn’t notice his wife was pregnant. How negligent.”

Jian Ru felt a pang of sadness at the news, and Li Jintong frowned deeply, remaining silent.

Li Jinhui said, “Fortunately, they’re still young enough. If she rests well during this month of confinement and recuperates properly afterward, she should fully recover in two or three months. They can try for another child then.”

She patted Jin Tong’s shoulder. “Alright, Qing Lan is asleep now. Everything’s fine. Go tell Mother, then both of you rest. Jin Rong and I will stay with her.”

Li Jintong said, “The clinic is without staff. I’ll take Xiao Ru back to his room to get settled, then go see patients.”

Jin Hui, being straightforward, exclaimed, “Oh, you! Stay home properly. With Jin He gone and your eldest sister-in-law in this state, if something happens to you while you’re out, how do you expect Mother to bear it?”

“For patients who can wait, I’ll have the assistant send them away. If it’s an emergency, the assistant will come find me. Don’t worry.”

Jian Ru glanced instinctively at the Second Young Master. Li Jintong’s expression remained unchanged—still gentle and agreeable. He nodded and said, “Alright, Elder Sister. We’ll go now.”

Li Jinhui waved them off. “Go on, go on. It’s been quite an ordeal. Rest well.”

Li Jintong brought Jian Ru's outer robe over and helped him put it on, just enough to cover the bloodstains on his inner clothes so Madam Li wouldn't be even more upset.

The couple went to the main room, where Madam Li lay motionless under a quilt on the bed.

Li Jintong sat by the bedside, took his mother's hand, and said, "Elder sister-in-law will be fine now. She just needs proper rest and recovery during this time."

By now, Madam Li's voice was already hoarse. She said, "I'm unwell."

Jian Ru crouched by the bed, leaning over her quilt. "Mother, where does it hurt? Let me rub it for you."

Madam Li's eyes trembled as tears streamed down her face. "The pain is in my heart," she said.

Jian Ru lifted his sleeve to wipe her tears, his voice choked with emotion. "Mother, you are a good person. Eldest Brother and Sister-in-law are good people too. Good people will receive good fortune—I'm sure of it."

Madam Li raised her hand and gently touched his temple, murmuring, "I hope so, I hope so..."

After Madam Li fell asleep, Granny Jin rushed back and reported that the eldest son of Squire Li's household had set off immediately upon receiving the news. Since the carriage couldn't travel too fast, he was riding ahead on horseback and should be able to make it before dark.

Li Jintong calculated the time—his elder brother should be home by dawn.

With Granny Jin looking after Madam Li, the couple returned to their own room.

Jian Ru took off his blood-stained outer clothes and soaked them in a basin.

Both were quite tired, and neither spoke.

Jian Ru sat down at the table. The second young master poured him a cup of hot tea, and Jian Ru sipped it slowly, one mouthful at a time. The second young master went to pull down the quilts and make the bed so Jian Ru could lie down for a while.

Jian Ru, being young and resilient, had already recovered somewhat. His eyes darted after the second young master wherever he went.

When the second young master turned to look at him, Jian Ru averted his gaze, set down his empty teacup, and walked over.

Wearing only his inner clothes, he climbed onto the bed without immediately covering himself. Patting his own chest, he asked the second young master, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, "May I hold you?"

The second young master replied, "Okay."

He also took off his shoes and lay down beside Jian Ru.

Jian Ru slipped an arm behind his neck, and the second young master turned over, shifting downward to press his face against Jian Ru's slender chest.

Jian Ru held him close and asked softly, "Are you very sad?"

After a moment, the second young master let out a quiet "Mm."

Jian Ru tightened his embrace around his shoulders and back, rubbing his cheek against the second young master's hair. "I'm here with you."

"Mm."

The young man's body was warm and soft, and lying together felt comforting. The second young master gradually fell into a deep sleep.

That night, the second young master came down with a fever again, though thankfully it was only a low-grade one.

Jian Ru wanted to call for help, but the second young master stopped him, saying, "Don't disturb Mother and the others. Just ask Xiao Ning to have the leftover medicine from last time prepared for me."

Jian Ru remained silent, his expression tense. The second young master smiled bitterly. "I wouldn't harm myself. Don't worry, it's really nothing serious."

Jian Ru went to find Xiao Ning to prepare the medicine. It was brewed into a concentrated bowl, which the second young master drank in one go.

After finishing the medicine and washing up, the two went to bed.

In the middle of the night, noises came from the front courtyard. The second young master quietly got up, not intending to wake Jian Ru. But Jian Ru, who likely hadn't been sleeping deeply, woke up groggily as he dressed.

Rubbing his eyes, Jian Ru peered into the dim light and mumbled, "Has Eldest Brother returned? I'll go with you."

The second young master said softly, "You were exhausted yesterday. Get some proper rest. I can go alone."

Jian Ru ignored him, throwing off the covers and getting out of bed. The fire in the stove had gone out, and the room was chilly. Dressed lightly, he shivered as his feet touched the floor.

The second young master quickly fetched his padded jacket from the clothes rack, wrapping it around him by reaching around his neck.

Jian Ru slipped a hand through the front opening of the jacket and touched the second young master's forehead.

The second young master remained still, letting him do as he pleased.

Jian Ru withdrew his hand and said, "No fever."

The second young master replied, "I told you it wasn't serious."

Reassured, the two finished getting ready and hurried out the door.

With only half a month left until the New Year, it was bitterly cold. As soon as they stepped outside, a gust of icy wind hit their faces. Jian Ru quickly stood on tiptoe to pull the second young master's scarf higher, covering his mouth and nose.

There had been a light snow overnight, as the ground was slippery. Holding hands, the two supported each other as they made their way to the front courtyard.

Passing the main room, Jian Ru noticed the light was on—Madam Li had also gotten up.

In the front courtyard, Li Jinfeng had already seen his wife and was now speaking with Jin Hui and her sister. Zhao Pin was also there. When he saw the second young master and his husband arrive, he stood up to greet them.

Li Jinfeng nodded at the two and said, "You're here." His face was pale, his expression weary, and his voice lacked strength.

The siblings sat around the table. Zhao Pin had just boiled water and was busy serving tea. Seeing this, Jian Ru went to help.

Li Jinfeng had been through a long ordeal and likely hadn't eaten yet. Jian Ru went to the outer room, found some prepared steamed buns and side dishes, heated them on the stove, and brought them over.

Li Jinfeng didn't touch the food. Jin Hui urged him, "Even if you don't feel like eating, you must. Qing Lan still needs you."

Hearing this, Li Jinfeng picked up his chopsticks and began eating without tasting anything.

When he had eaten enough, Jian Ru went to clear the dishes.

Li Jinfeng looked at his siblings and said, "I owe you all thanks."

Jin Rong said solemnly, "There's no need for formalities with us. But as a doctor, and as someone close to her, you shouldn't have failed to..."

Jin Hui nudged her arm, stopping her from continuing. Jin Rong fell silent.

Li Jinfeng lowered his head. "I didn't take good enough care of her." As he spoke, he covered his face, tears streaming through his fingers.

The couple had always wanted a child. After so many years without one, they had begun to think it wasn't meant to be. They never expected she would become pregnant, only to lose the child so suddenly.

Especially for Li Qinglan, who had always been troubled by their childlessness, the blow was undoubtedly devastating.

Now, weak and unconscious, she was spared from overthinking. But once she regained clarity, she would likely grieve for a long time.

Jin Hui sighed, took out a handkerchief, and pressed it into her brother's hand.

Jin Tong silently grasped his elder brother's arm, offering wordless comfort.

Winter days dawned late. When the couple returned to their room, it was still dark, and there was just enough time to catch a little more sleep—though neither rested peacefully.

In the morning after breakfast, he went to the main house to pay his respects. Madam Li was not in good spirits either, but at least she wasn’t ill. She just lay there, unwilling to speak or move.

He then went to the front courtyard to check on things, brought some tonics, exchanged a few words, and returned.

By dusk, the second young master had spiked a fever again. Having dealt with this before, Jian Ru was somewhat prepared and kept his cool. He had Xiao Ning prepare the medicine and used a warm cloth to wipe the second young master’s hands, face, and armpits.

In the evening, Xiao Ning brought in the medicinal paste for Jian Ru’s leg. Jian Ru had planned to apply it himself with Xiao Ning’s assistance, but the second young master insisted on getting up. He sat on a small stool and carefully applied the paste for him.

Sitting on the bed, Jian Ru looked at his fever-flushed face and long, drooping eyelashes, feeling his heart soften immensely.

After applying the paste and pulling down the trouser legs, Jian Ru quickly helped the second young master back to bed, pulled up the quilt to cover both of them, and as before, stretched out his thin arms to tightly embrace the second young master with great effort.

Since the fever had returned in the afternoon, Li Jintong had been very quiet, speaking very little.

Holding him, Jian Ru could feel the warmth radiating from his hair and the hot breath against his neck.

Jian Ru sensed that the second young master was upset, not just because of Jin He’s departure or the matter with his sister-in-law.

Just as Jian Ru thought he had fallen asleep, the second young master suddenly spoke, “Xiao Ru, am I useless?”

Jian Ru said sternly, “Don’t say that about yourself.”

The second young master replied, “But I can’t help anyone. I'm just a burden to everyone.”

Hearing this, Jian Ru’s heart tightened.

He had heard these words when they first met. At the time, they were still unfamiliar, and Jian Ru hadn’t fully understood the weight of them, only feeling that the second young master didn’t seem to live an unburdened life.

To others, the second young master came from a wealthy family, was handsome and knowledgeable. Though his health was poor, his family loved and cared for him meticulously. It seemed he had no reason to be dissatisfied. But now, living together and witnessing his daily life, Jian Ru truly understood the hidden sorrow in those simple words.

Jian Ru didn’t know how to comfort him. The second young master had grown up sickly and had likely heard all kinds of comforting words countless times, surely tired of them by now. At this moment, Jian Ru hated his own lack of eloquence, unable to say the right things.

He could only speak from the heart, “Who said you’re useless? Without you, how could I live such a good life?”

“Xiao Ru, you’re capable and clever. Even without me, you’d live well in the future,” the second young master said, his voice thick with despair. “If I die, you wouldn’t have to take care of me. You’d live even better.”

Jian Ru hated hearing the word “die” the most. A miserable life was better than a good death—at least there was hope in living, while death meant nothing.

He leaned back to face him directly, his expression serious. “There’s something I haven’t told you, afraid you’d think I was gossiping behind your back.”

The second young master, who had been despondent, lifted his eyelids and looked at him curiously.

Jian Ru said, “Your mother once spoke to me, telling me not to exhaust you.”

At first, the second young master didn’t understand. Jian Ru, growing anxious and prone to blunt honesty, averted his gaze, his face flushing red. “Mother wronged me terribly. I don’t even dare look too closely when wiping you down, afraid you might catch a chill. Since we married, aside from holding hands and kissing your cheeks, what liberties have I taken of you?”

The second young master remained silent for a long time. Jian Ru stole a glance and saw his expression had turned grim, the whites of his eyes tinged with red.

Panicking, Jian Ru tried to cup his face, but the second young master turned away, facing the other side.

Unknowingly, Jian Ru’s words had struck a nerve, touching on the second young master’s deepest insecurity since their marriage.

Jian Ru quickly sat up and leaned over to ask, “What’s wrong? Did I say something wrong?”

The second young master refused to answer.

Growing more anxious, Jian Ru decided to take action. Since the mountain wouldn’t come to him, he would go to the mountain. He clambered over Li Jintong to the other side to face him.

Li Jintong had been sleeping on the outer edge of the bed. When he turned, he was already close to the edge. As Jian Ru climbed over, he nearly fell off, but Li Jintong reached out to hold his waist, shifting back to make space for him.

But as soon as they were face to face, Li Jintong withdrew his hand and turned again, this time lying on his back instead of facing away.

Without hesitation, Jian Ru followed his movement, straddling his lower abdomen with his slender legs.

This time, the second young master seemed accustomed to it and didn’t gasp from the weight.

Though being straddled by his husband, the second young master’s expression inexplicably softened.

Jian Ru, now furious, blurted out, “We haven’t even consummated our marriage yet! You’re not allowed to die!”

The second young master’s face reddened as he whispered, “Keep your voice down. Xiao Ning lives next door. Don’t let him hear.”

Jian Ru panted, “If he hears, let him judge. Why should I, who lucked into marrying such a perfect husband, only get to look?”

The second young master’s eyelashes fluttered as he confessed, “I’ve wanted to as well… I’ve wanted to since our wedding night, but my body just isn’t strong enough.”

Having vented, Jian Ru calmed down slightly. Hearing this, he also felt embarrassed and turned away, muttering, “I’m not that impatient, it’s just… I just don’t want you to overthink things.”

The second young master glanced at him briefly before turning away again. “Then… how about now… now…” His face was nearly crimson.

Jian Ru understood his meaning and felt his own cheeks flame. “That won’t do! You’re still sick!”

The second young master thought it over and realized his current physical state might embarrass him in front of his husband.

After hesitating, he seemed to resolve himself and said, “Then… how about you just look at me…” As he spoke, he fumbled with his collar.

Jian Ru let out a soft “ah” and couldn’t help but glance over. Li Jintong faced away, his collar now open, revealing his slender neck, sharp collarbones, and a glimpse of his pale chest. Jian Ru looked, averted his gaze, then looked back again.

The second young master was still feverish, and Jian Ru felt like a beast.

His heart racing, he grabbed Li Jintong’s hand and yanked the collar shut, so tight that the second young master coughed twice. Jian Ru quickly loosened it.

After that, Jian Ru scrambled off the second young master and returned to his side of the bed, lying with his back to him.

Behind him, the second young master seemed to turn over again, his voice soft and close, “Really not going to look?”

Jian Ru shook his head vigorously.

Rustling sounds followed. When they ceased, Jian Ru turned back. Li Jintong had already straightened his clothes, covering himself completely.

He was looking at Jian Ru, his eyes moist and expression soft.

His husband’s impulsive outburst had dispelled the gloom and sorrow in his heart.

But Jian Ru hadn’t forgotten his earlier point. “You’re not useless. Yesterday, I was so scared my hands went numb. If you hadn’t been there, I wouldn’t have known what to do—I’d have panicked.”

“And as for Mother, you’re her anchor. Without you, the rest of us would only burden her.”

“As for Sister-in-Law, you’ve done all you could. If it weren’t for propriety, I believe even Elder Sister and Second Sister wouldn’t have needed to return.”

Jian Ru’s eyes wavered. “Jin Tong, your family must have told you many times that just living is enough. I’ve said it too, but I have some ambition—I’m afraid you’ll think I’m arrogant, so I’ve never voiced it.”

“What is it?” Li Jintong asked softly.

A determined glint shone in Jian Ru’s eyes. “I want you to get better—so well that you can do anything you want. If it takes three to five years, so be it. If not, then ten years. If ten years isn’t enough, then twenty. No matter what, I will make you better.”

Li Jintong stared at him in a daze. Jian Ru cupped his face, his tone fierce, as if making a vow, “Believe me.”

Li Jintong’s eyelashes fluttered. “Mm, I believe you.”

After all that fuss, it was very late. Li Jintong's fever had come down a bit, so Jian Ru got up and brought him a cup of warm water to drink, then went to put out the lamp.

From the bed behind him, a young, slightly hoarse voice said softly, "Are you really not going to look?"

Jian Ru stiffened, pausing as he went to blow out the candle.

He gritted his teeth, his face showing hesitation and conflict, and finally closed his eyes, clenched his jaw, and said, "No!"

But though he said he wouldn't look, he still didn't extinguish the lamp.

Seeing this, the Second Young Master tentatively asked, "How about... just one glance?"

Jian Ru immediately replied, "That could work too."

The Second Young Master laughed.

Jian Ru stormed over to the bedside. The Second Young Master stopped laughing, his face flushed. The flushed Second Young Master bent down, grabbed the collar of his clothes with both hands, and pulled it open. Li Jintong felt a chill as his upper body was exposed.

It lasted only a moment—soon, the garment was closed again, pulled tightly together.

Jian Ru said gruffly, "Saw what I needed to see."

Without waiting for the Second Young Master's reaction, he turned and blew out the candle, then felt along the edge of the bed, climbed up, and lay down in his usual spot.

In the darkness, the two lay side by side, a fist's distance apart, both stiff and silent, too embarrassed to move or speak.

Jian Ru closed his eyes, mentally replaying that brief glimpse clearly in his mind: the broad, straight shoulders; skin, so pale it seemed to glow; thin, even muscle tone; a slender, tapered waist; and the shallow contours extending from his lower abdomen into the waistband of his trousers... Jian Ru's Adam's apple involuntarily bobbed.

The Second Young Master was thin, but his family had taken good care of him—not too thin or bony. Though he lacked bulky muscles... Jian Ru liked it.

...

Li Jintong recovered from this illness very quickly—in just five or six days, the remaining medicine was used up, and he was completely well again.

During these days, the eldest sister-in-law was doing the month. Madam Li specially had Old Lady Wang go to the front courtyard to cook, preparing nourishing soups and meals for her every day. The Eldest Young Master stayed by her side every day, not going anywhere else.

Jian Ru went over daily to check on her and help with chores. He could see that although Li Qinglan still looked gloomy, her health was improving day by day, and some color had returned to her face.

When the eldest sister-in-law saw Jian Ru, she thanked him profusely. If it hadn't been for Jian Ru that day, things might have turned out differently.

The Eldest Young Master also thanked Jian Ru very sincerely. Jian Ru felt uncomfortable with formal gratitude and said straightforwardly, "We're all family—no need for formalities."

Hearing this, the Eldest Young Master laughed and said, "Xiao Ru's temperament suits Jin Tong perfectly." At this point, Li Jinfeng's attitude toward Jian Ru was much warmer than when they first met.

Hearing this, Jian Ru thought to himself that he felt the same way.

Madam Li had also been much better these past few days and wasn't lying in bed all day.

Jin He had reached the commandery city in two or three days. After she was settled in at home, she immediately wrote a letter.

A couple of days ago, when the letter arrived, Madam Li was no longer worried about her youngest daughter's safety on the road, which eased her mind considerably. Coupled with the fact that her eldest daughter-in-law was improving day by day and her youngest son had been healthy these days, she gradually recovered.

Along with the letter came a large package from Jin He, containing health tonics for the eldest sister-in-law and some special foods for Madam Li.

According to the eldest son of their second uncle's family, Jin He had cried upon hearing about the eldest sister-in-law's miscarriage. She had wanted to return midway, but her in-laws' matters couldn't be delayed any longer.

This time, Madam Li couldn't bring herself to share the treats with everyone. She only gave a little to her two well-behaved grandsons. When Jian Ru came to see her, she took advantage of the moment when they were alone to fill his pockets.

Jian Ru knew this was the old lady showing favoritism toward her youngest son, and he was just benefiting from the association. But since he had never been close to elders in the past, he was still happy to have a mother figure treating him well.

These past few days, the Eldest Young Master was unable to go to the medical clinic, and the Second Sister was very busy.

The Second Young Master wanted to help at the clinic, but Madam Li still didn't agree. She earnestly advised her youngest son to wait until after the New Year when the weather warmed up, promising she wouldn't stop him then.

Truthfully, even if he went, no one could really stop him, but Madam Li's spirits had just started feeling better, and Li Jintong didn't want to upset his mother again.

Li Jintong agreed without another word.

Back in their room, he didn't seem upset. Jian Ru lifted his face to study his expression, and the Second Young Master chuckled, saying, "It's really nothing. I've thought it through."

Jian Ru felt relieved and gathered up the leftover fruit peels.

The Second Young Master said, "While you were out, Xian Yu came looking for you."

Jian Ru tossed the peels into the waste basket and asked, "What did he want?"

"He mentioned the big opera on Yuanbao Street—it's tomorrow," the Second Young Master replied.

Jian Ru said, "Oh," already understanding that Madam Li wouldn't let Li Jintong go out. So he said, "It's just children's entertainment. I'll go tell him later that I won't be going with him."

The Second Young Master said, "I'll talk to Eldest Sister and ask her to take you along tomorrow."

Jian Ru quickly stopped him, saying, "Really, I'm not going. It wouldn't be any fun without you."

The Second Young Master didn't press further. But that night, as they lay in bed, he suddenly said, "I've never been to see a big opera before."

Jian Ru was surprised. "Not even once?"

The Second Young Master said, "Well, not exactly. One winter, I made such a fuss about wanting to go that Mother hired some performers from a teahouse to come and sing for me for half a day."

Jian Ru asked, "Did you like it?"

The Second Young Master said, "It was quite lively when they sang."

That meant he liked it.

Jian Ru fell silent, mulling it over in his mind.

The next day, after breakfast, when Jian Ru went to pay his morning respects, he indeed didn't see Eldest Sister and her family—all four of them had gone to Yuanbao Street.

After sitting in the main room for a while, keeping Madam Li company, and spending some time with Granny Jin, Jian Ru returned to their room.

The Second Young Master was preparing ink for calligraphy, getting ready to teach him. When Jian Ru saw this, he said, "Let's not practice today. We can do it tonight."

Jian Ru had been very enthusiastic about practicing calligraphy lately. No matter how busy he was, he always found time for Li Jintong to teach him characters and practice writing. This was the first time he hadn't been eager.

The Second Young Master raised an eyebrow. Jian Ru hopped over to him like a rabbit, eyes sparkling with excitement, and whispered, "Do you want to go see the big opera?"

Li Jintong was stunned. Jian Ru quietly said, "We can sneak out through the back door. Mother won't know."

The Second Young Master looked surprised, visibly hesitating.

"Just one glance, and we'll come right back," Jian Ru said, blinking, his face blushing slightly.

Seeing this, the Second Young Master understood that Jian Ru was purposely echoing his own words from that night, playfully teasing to cheer him up.

The Second Young Master laughed, and nodded, no longer hesitating.

Jian Ru went to call Xiao Ning, and the two crouched together for a quick chat before Xiao Ning excitedly threw on his padded jacket and ran out.

Once Xiao Ning had left, Jian Ru went to the wardrobe and fetched the second young master’s fur cloak, along with a cotton hat, scarf, and mittens, making sure he had everything.

He also heated water and prepared a heated bed warmer.

By the time everything was almost ready, Xiao Ning had returned—he came back in a carriage, having hired one from the street just moments earlier.

Jian Ru said, surprised, "That was quick!"

Xiao Ning said, "The carriage happened to be dropping off the neighbors, so I brought it over."

Seeing that the second young master was already dressed, Jian Ru also put on his cotton robe, and the three of them headed out together.

They lived in the last house in the row, and the eldest sister and her family to the west were not home. As long as no one came around this side, those in the front courtyard wouldn’t spot them leaving.

After boarding the carriage, the second young master was still amused by the phrase "just take a look."

Jian Ru asked what he was laughing at, but the second young master glanced at Xiao Ning and said nothing, so Jian Ru didn’t ask again.

The Li residence wasn’t far from Yuanbao Street; the journey took just long enough to drink a cup of tea.

However, Jian Ru wasn’t heading to Yuanbao Street itself but to the intersection where it crossed another road. There stood a popular local restaurant where he had reserved a private room on the second floor.

Though Jian Ru was sometimes impulsive, he was extremely cautious when it came to the second young master. If the young master were to get sick just to watch a play, even if the old madam didn’t blame him, he would blame himself.

Arriving at the restaurant, Jian Ru paid the carriage fare and went upstairs with the second young master.

Xiao Ning followed them into the private room and gasped in awe.

The restaurant was famous not only for its food but also for its ambiance.

Xiao Ning called over a server, who quickly brought tea and pastries before walking to the window and pushing it open, revealing the street outside. The room’s position gave them a diagonal view of the stage where the opera was being performed.

At that moment, an actor playing an elderly male role was warming up the crowd with a rich, powerful singing voice, which could be clearly heard from their room.

Two charcoal heaters had been placed in the room, and though the window was open wide, the cotton robes kept them warm. The occasional breeze that blew in felt refreshing.

After the waiter finished and left, the second young master gave Jian Ru a puzzled look and asked, "I didn’t see you go out. When did you reserve this place?"

Jian Ru blinked and smiled, "I asked Granny Jin to go for me."

The second young master was surprised, "How did she agree to help you?"

Jian Ru said, "I told her you really wanted to see the opera and that you’d make yourself sick with disappointment if you missed it. She took pity on you, so she agreed."

The second young master was momentarily stunned, then couldn’t help but laugh, saying, "You! You’ve got some nerve!"

Jian Ru popped a pastry in his mouth, smirking smugly.

As the main performance began, Xiao Ning peered out the window to watch for a while. Seeing the crowded scene and the variety of snacks and games below, he got fidgety.

Jian Ru called him over, gave him some silver, and said, "Alright, we don’t need you here. Go down and have some fun."

Xiao Ning bounced with excitement, bowed to the master and his husband, then hurried out of the private room and downstairs.

The second young master sat by the table, his eyes fixed on the stage outside the window. He sipped his tea from time to time and occasionally nodded along with the music. Jian Ru didn’t follow the opera well but found the lively atmosphere quite enjoyable. Seeing how much the second young master seemed to like it made him even happier.

Jian Ru leaned against the window for a while, enjoying the cool breeze. Worried he might catch a chill, the second young master pulled him back gently.

Obediently, Jian Ru sat back down. As he glanced casually at the crowd below, he frowned.

Following his gaze, the second young master, who had sharp eyes, immediately spotted the third son of his second uncle. The young man was being escorted to the front of the stage, his arm wrapped around a brightly dressed young woman. The people around him were rough and disorderly, using his influence to push others aside, causing discontent among the crowd.

"He actually flaunts that woman in public like this, with no regard for Sun Yushuang at all," Jian Ru said with disgust.

The second young master glanced down briefly before turning away. "His reputation is well-known. Sun Yushuang asked for it; she has no one else to blame."

The remark was somewhat cold. Li Jintong immediately regretted it and glanced at Jian Ru’s expression, only to find the other hadn't paid it any mind, his attention still fixed on the stage. Li Jintong quietly sighed in relief.

On stage, a wedding scene was unfolding, with actors moving about to the accompaniment of gongs and drums, creating a lively spectacle.

Watching the scene, Jian Ru was reminded of his own wedding two months earlier, when he had first seen the groom at night. The second young master, dressed in wedding robes, had stunned him.

At this thought, Jian Ru unconsciously turned his gaze to Li Jintong, only to find the other already looking at him.

Jian Ru smiled. The second young master asked, "What are you smiling about?"

Resting his cheeks in his hands, Jian Ru grinned, his eyes crinkling with a smile. "I’m smiling because I’m fortunate—I’m glad you’re so good-looking."

Hearing this, Li Jintong also smiled, his gaze fixed intently on the young man before him. He said leisurely, "Good looks are only skin deep. Who’s to say you won’t grow tired of looking at it one day?"

Jian Ru was taken aback, feeling that the phrase "grow tired of looking" sounded familiar. After a moment’s thought, he recalled that these were the words he had spoken during their first meeting at the estate. The second young master had mentioned it once more afterward, though Jian Ru hadn’t paid much attention at the time.

As he looked at Li Jintong, who was smiling back at him, Jian Ru thought to himself, "This second young master is quite petty—he’s held a grudge over that comment until now."

But petty or not, he himself wasn’t particularly generous either.

Seeing Jian Ru fall silent, the second young master didn’t push it.

Just then, the waiter knocked and entered again, replacing the charcoal brazier and serving hot tea and fruits.

After the waiter left, the second young master took a sip of tea and surveyed the items on the table. Knowing how frugal Jian Ru usually was, he couldn’t help but smile at the thought of how much determination it must have taken for him to spend so much. "Thanks to Xiao Ru this time—I’m benefiting from your generosity."

Jian Ru lifted his chin slightly. Though it pained him to spend so much, he pretended it didn't bother him. "Spending money on you makes me happy."

Jian Ru had never spent so much money before. The monthly allowance he had just received was nearly gone after this outing.

The second young master glanced outside and, as if struck by a thought, suddenly laughed.

Jian Ru asked curiously, "What are you laughing at now?"

Turning to face him, the second young master replied with a teasing smile, "I was thinking, if I hadn’t cleared up the matter with Sun Yushuang earlier, I probably wouldn’t have gotten to see today’s performance."

Jian Ru felt a bit embarrassed but replied candidly, "Well, you’d better remember that."

Li Jintong studied him for a moment before suddenly asking, "Are you cold?"

Jian Ru said, "No."

Li Jintong said, "I am cold."

Jian Ru stood up. "Then I’ll close the window for now. We can open it again when it warms up."

As he finished closing the window and turned to sit back down, his hand, hanging by his side, was suddenly grasped.

Jian Ru turned to look and saw the second young master sitting in his chair, his expression gentle as he gazed at him.

That day, the second young master wore a fur cloak adorned with white fur around the collar. The light streaming through the window gap illuminated his face, highlighting his radiant complexion and making him even more captivating.

As he continued to watch, Jian Ru's Adam's apple bobbed, and he bent down.

At the same time, the Second Young Master Li leaned forward slightly.

Jian Ru caught whiff of Li Jintong's incense again. Though they spent every day in the same room, Jian Ru couldn't smell it on himself—only on the Second Young Master Li, where it seemed particularly distinct and pleasant.

Outside, the world was cold and noisy; inside, it was warm and quiet.

Jian Ru lowered his head, and his lips touched the Second Young Master Li's.