Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Whose good man is called Chen Lingan!

After the rain, the sky cleared up and the Zhang family's main courtyard was lush and green. The shallow water on the ground reflected the sunlight that alternated between early summer and late spring, shining like gold.

The table in the east room was covered with patterns of clothing.

Madam Jiang carefully selected for a while and then ordered, "The sky blue is elegant and perfect for summer, while the goose yellow is charming and suits the Third Girl's personality. This piece of golden phoenix silk is perfect for a horse-faced skirt with a peony-red satin pattern. Pair it with a pea green wide-sleeved shirt to create a look of elegance and dignity. Send two pieces of each to the Third Girl."

The housekeeper, Fang's mother, hesitated and did not act immediately.

The third girl the lady was talking about was named Xiaoman. She was lost when she was two years old. No one could find her after searching for her for many years, and her biological mother died of depression because of this.

I had lost hope, but unexpectedly, an old lady who was returning to her hometown to retire passed by Xuanhua a few years ago. She recognized the third girl who was living in the countryside by the birthmark on her shoulder.

I heard that when the third girl was found, the snow was falling heavily and the wind felt like a knife cutting people's faces, but she was still collecting firewood in the mountains, with frostbite on her hands.

Even the maids who served their masters had never suffered such a punishment.

No wonder the lady pities her.

But it's too much pity.

There were a total of 20 pieces of silk used in ten different patterns and colors. The Zhang family had one son and four daughters, but the third daughter alone had 8 pieces of silk in four colors, including two pieces of the most popular brocade satin.

If the fourth girl knew that all the makeup and satin were given to the third girl, she would definitely get angry.

The fourth girl was the daughter of Concubine Yao. Both mother and daughter were the master's favorites. If they really got into a quarrel, the mistress would be accused of being partial and jealous.

Mother Fang gave a subtle reminder.

Mrs. Jiang smiled, not really caring. "Xiao Man just returned, so naturally, any good things will go to her first. This child has a miserable life. Her mother is gone, and the master treats her indifferently. The people in the mansion are always flattering each other. If I, as a mother, don't pay attention to her, how can she survive in the mansion?"

Mother Fang's heart moved. Judging from the implication of the lady's words, did she want to register the third girl under her own name?

The wife had been married to the Liu family for twenty years, having lost two children and developing health problems that prevented her from having children. She was lazy all day, with no interest in anything. The third daughter was lively and cheerful, never smiling or talking when they met. Since her return, the lifeless main courtyard has begun to liven up.

If it can really relieve my wife's worries and loneliness, it doesn't matter if I love her a little more.

Mother Fang stopped persuading her and took a few maids to deliver the fabric to the third young lady.

As soon as she walked out of the hospital, she saw the master coming towards her, and Mother Fang hurriedly knelt down to greet him.

Zhang Wen has a slender figure and a handsome and elegant appearance. Even though he is middle-aged, he still has the charm of a handsome man in his youth.

He glanced at the clothes held by the maids, "Who is this for?"

The account was clearly recorded, so Mother Fang could only reply truthfully, "Master, it's for the third young lady."

Zhang Wen said nothing and went straight to the main room.

It was not yet time to get off duty, and Mrs. Jiang was a little surprised to see him come back, "You're back so early today."

"There's nothing to do at the government office, so I'm just sitting around doing nothing. Why don't you go home?" Zhang Wen flipped through the remaining fabrics on the table and sat down. "How are you arranging the Four Seasons Banquet at the Pingyang Marquis' Mansion on the ninth day of the first lunar month?"

The Four Seasons Banquet was a gathering among the women in the rear house, and Zhang Wensu did not interfere.

Madam Jiang raised her eyebrows and said slowly, "The third girl came with me to the banquet. I have already replied to the Marquis' Mansion."

Zhang Wen asked again, "I heard that Liu Jinshu, the eldest son of the Liu family, is also going. This is his first time appearing at a banquet like this. I'm afraid... he's here to see the emperor, right?"

Since he asked, it means he already knows it and there is no need to hide it anymore.

Mrs. Jiang said, "Yes, my sister helped to arrange the marriage for Xiaoman, so I will only bring her this time."

The implication is very clear.

Zhang Wen, however, disagreed. "The Liu family is a family of scholars and nobles, while Xiaoman grew up in the countryside and can only barely read. She's not up to the task of being the mistress of a wealthy family. Even if the Liu family were interested in Xiaoman, it would be out of respect for your sister. This might not work out, and it would only lead to others mocking Xiaoman for being wishful thinking and overestimating her own abilities."

This is the truth. Mrs. Jiang's sister married into the Qin family of Pingyang Marquis's mansion, and Mrs. Qin of the Liu family is the elder sister-in-law of Mrs. Jiang. If it weren't for Mrs. Jiang's guarantee, Mrs. Qin might not have agreed to this matter.

Liu Jinshu had become famous at a young age and had always been a popular choice for a son-in-law in the capital, with many families eyeing him eagerly. Once his marriage failed, it was inevitable that some jealous people would secretly ridicule Xiaoman.

Mrs. Jiang's brows knitted slightly. "Then, Master, what do you think? Should we just let this matter go?"

Zhang Wen took a sip from his teacup and said slowly, "Liu Jinshu has a promising future, and his father is about to enter the cabinet. If this marriage can be successful, it will be very beneficial to the Zhang family."

"Jun Yi is outstanding in talent, appearance, and temperament, and is quite famous in the capital. If it's her, then it's a sure thing. As for Xiao Man, I have other arrangements."

Junyi is the fourth girl's maiden name.

Mrs. Jiang laughed when she heard this. "No wonder she came home so early today. It turns out she was going to exchange a bride. The master really took great pains for the fourth girl."

There was a hint of sarcasm in her words, and a flicker of discomfort crossed Zhang Wen's face. "The marriage hasn't even taken place, so how can you talk about exchanging the bride? Marriage is about uniting two families, so naturally you should choose someone of equal character, appearance, and talent. Pushing someone who isn't a good match for you on a blind date isn't a marriage, it's an enmity."

The one on the left is not suitable, and the one on the right is not a good match. No matter how well-mannered Mrs. Jiang is, she can't stand it.

"When the child first came home, you said you would make it up to her, but you found fault with her everywhere and kept belittling her. The fourth girl is your daughter, but Xiaoman is not? Is there any father like you?"

"Because she didn't grow up in the mansion, families similar to ours wouldn't even bother to look at her. Those who rush to propose marriage are mostly those who curry favor with the powerful. Xiaoman has suffered for more than ten years outside. We can't push her into the fire pit again."

"She's already seventeen, and marriage can't be delayed any longer. The Liu family finally agreed to see Xiaoman, but you let the fourth girl stand in her way. It's like a slap in the face! How will the whole family view her? How will she cope with the future? You can't be so partial!"

After a barrage of scolding, Zhang Wen felt a little embarrassed.

He came from a poor family and his path to promotion was not smooth. He wasted many years in the position of Jieshizhong. Fortunately, he chose the right side in the dispute between the current emperor and the deposed emperor, and was promoted to Shaoqing of Guanglu Temple. However, he was stuck at the fifth rank and could not be promoted any higher.

He finally got a chance and became the Minister of Personnel as a result of compromise between various forces. Although he seemed to hold great power, he was actually in name only and was completely marginalized by the cabinet and the two vice ministers.

Not to mention entering the center of power, you may be replaced at any time.

He desperately needs someone to help him.

The Liu family is a century-old family with deep-rooted power in Yingtian Prefecture. They also have a close relationship with the current second-in-command Chen Shao. If he becomes related by marriage with the Liu family, he will not only be able to secure his position as Shangshu, but may even be able to enter the cabinet.

This Jiang, instead of helping, caused more troubles, always finding fault with him and scolding him like a grandson.

He is the head of the family!

The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. Zhang Wen glared at him, "It's clearly you who's been unfair, yet you're accusing me of bias. You dislike the Yao mother and daughter, and you're using Xiaoman as an excuse to suppress Junyi. You act solely based on your personal preferences, completely disregarding the future and interests of the Zhang family. Jealous, childless, and a gossipmonger—just think of how many offenses you've committed!"

After saying that, he turned away.

Mrs. Jiang's hands were clenched until they turned white. She took several deep breaths and managed to hold on without losing her composure.

She insisted on making this marriage happen and would not let them have their way!

*****

Zhang Wen likes quietness, so his mansion has always been quiet and peaceful. The courtyards are often silent, and there are few people making noise or playing.

Except for the third lady’s Qingtang Garden.

Through the courtyard wall, I could hear the laughter and joy inside.

The corners of Fang's mother's mouth also curled up.

The Zhang family originally thought that the third girl, who grew up in a remote village, must be timid and cowardly, but the third girl was different!

She has an easygoing temper and loves to talk and laugh. No matter whether others flatter her or ridicule her, she just smiles and doesn't take it to heart at all. She is quite "detached from the world".

Even though her marriage was not going well, it did not affect her mood and she was still happy.

Sure enough, when I pushed the door open, I saw the third girl playing shuttlecock, surrounded by several maids clapping and cheering.

After more than three months of recuperation, he had grown a little taller and his face was a little rosier than when he first returned home, but the rough marks left by his past labor had not yet faded.

She has an oval face with soft contours, big and bright eyes, and two small dimples at the corners of her mouth when she smiles. Even if her skin is not delicate and smooth, this sweetness and brightness is enough to make up for it.

Maybe because he runs and jumps all the time, he has long arms and legs and looks quite agile and energetic.

Just like the poplar trees growing vigorously in the vast fields.

It is naturally good for farmers, but in the eyes of wealthy families, it seems not elegant and steady enough.

I don’t know where the third girl’s luck lies, Mother Fang sighed secretly.

"Mother Fang!" Zhang Xiaoman saw her and ran over happily, "Hey, is this for me?"

Mother Fang smiled and said, "Madam picked it out especially for you. Tomorrow the people from Yunshangfang will come to measure you for the clothes. Just tell them what style you like."

"Mother really loves me!" Zhang Xiaoman raised his hand to wipe the sweat off his face. After wiping, he found the cotton towel handed to him by the maid. He smiled shyly and invited Fang's mother into the house for tea. "Thank you for coming here, mother. I just got some pre-rain tea. Everyone says it's good. Mom, try it."

Mother Fang declined: the master had already noticed these pieces of fabric, and the mistress had a stubborn temper and would not speak softly. It would be bad if they started quarreling, so she had to go back and take a look.

Zhang Xiaoman ordered someone to pack the tea leaves and give them to Fang's mother. "I don't know how to appreciate tea, so it would be a shame to give me good tea. Please keep it. Since I came back, you have taken so much care of me. This is my sincere gift."

Mother Fang thanked her with a smile, took the tea leaves and left.

Eight pieces of silk were placed in the room, and the afternoon sun shone through the window onto them, making them appear even more brilliant and colorful.

The little maid Jinxiu stepped forward and said playfully, "Look at this brocade, it's like a rainbow. It will look so beautiful on you. When the Four Seasons Banquet comes, you will definitely be the most eye-catching one."

Zhang Xiaoman laughed out loud, "I'm afraid he's the one that attracts the most discussion."

"If you're not envied by others, you're mediocre. Let others say whatever they want." Jinxiu's face suddenly became serious, and she whispered, "Young lady, be careful of the fourth young lady. The last time the Zhou family's marriage failed, it might have been her and her aunt who were behind it. Now that you have a better marriage, you must be even more wary of them."

That's another lawsuit.

The Zhou family was the last one who was interested in meeting her, but when they met, they said they thought Bingren was referring to the fourth girl and made a mistake. They were sorry and would not come.

The stepmother was so angry that she not only cut off all ties with the Zhou family, but also took her anger out on the Yao mother and daughter.

Jinxiu came from her stepmother's courtyard, so it was inevitable for her to think this way.

Zhang Xiaoman didn't agree with her words and said that Fourth Sister was wrong. "Mr. Zhou is just a student. Fourth Sister has high standards and looks down on him. She definitely doesn't want to be involved with him."

"The Zhou family looked down on me from the beginning, but they were attracted by my father's family background as the Minister of Personnel, so they reluctantly agreed to meet me. Perhaps they later found a better choice, so they used my fourth sister as an excuse to refuse."

As soon as the voice fell, a voice came from the door, "You still have some brains."

The door curtain was lifted, revealing Zhang Junyi's beautiful face.

Being caught talking about someone behind their back, Jinxiu was so embarrassed that her face turned red. She secretly hated the people outside for not informing her and retreated in embarrassment.

"Fourth sister, please sit down." Zhang Xiaoman smiled and changed the subject. "I just made a few shuttlecocks and was just looking for you to play with them. It's a coincidence that you came."

Zhang Junyi was preoccupied with other matters and was in no mood to argue with the maid. He glanced at the fabrics on the table, hummed softly, and handed over a brocade box. "Here's this butterfly hairpin I just got. I'll give it to you. Now we're even."

"Even?" Zhang Xiaoman's eyes flickered as he asked with a grin, "What have you done to offend me? Tell me the truth now."

Zhang Junyi was startled for a moment, then his face flushed red. He reached out to grab the box, "Take it or leave it. If you don't want it, give it back to me!"

"How can you give something away and then ask for it back?" Zhang Xiaoman hid and laughed while holding the box. "It was just a joke, and you got angry. My dear sister, am I wrong?"

Zhang Junyi pushed her again before stopping.

Zhang Xiaoman opened the box and couldn't help but exclaimed.

A golden hairpin lay quietly on the brick-red lining of the uniform. The hairpin head was woven with gold threads as thick as a hair into the shape of a butterfly, and the wings were inlaid with gorgeous emerald green and decorated with pearls and rubies.

Holding it in my hand, the wings trembled slightly, the light changed, and the green color also flowed in waves. The butterfly suddenly became extremely agile, as if it came alive and was about to fly in my hand.

"This... is too expensive, right?" Zhang Xiaoman hesitated whether to accept it.

"A hairpin inlaid with gold and kingfisher feathers and jewels is, of course, valuable. Madam, you may not even have one of better quality." Zhang Junyi was very pleased with himself. After thinking for a moment, he said, "It's just ordinary to me. I'll let you wear it for fun."

As if unwilling to continue this topic, Zhang Junyi stood up and walked to the desk, looking at the ground paper and letter paper, "You want to write a letter?"

Zhang Xiaoman sighed, "I want to ask about the situation in my hometown of Xuanfu, but unfortunately I can't send it even if I write it."

Both her parents disliked her associating with the family that adopted her, and she had not sent a single letter since she came to the capital.

Zhang Junyi said, "You're lucky to have met me. My uncle is going north to collect rent tomorrow. It's just a detour. I can just tell him."

Zhang Xiaoman's eyes lit up, "Thank you so much!"

"But I need to know what you wrote in the letter." Zhang Junyi stood beside the desk, as if he wanted to stare at what she was writing. "Don't show off by inviting a bunch of poor relatives to the capital and bring shame to our whole family."

Zhang Xiaoman was slightly stunned for a moment, then laughed and said, "How could that be possible? I just... I just wanted to find out if the neighbor's brother had returned."

"You're about to go on a blind date with Young Master Liu, but you're still thinking about other men." Zhang Junyi muttered in a low voice.

Zhang Xiaoman had good ears and heard it immediately, but he didn't say anything.

Her stepmother had just told her about the matchmaking the other morning, and she had kept it a secret. No one in the courtyard knew about it except her personal maid, Jinxiu. Jinxiu had been with her the entire time, so it was impossible for her to reveal it to anyone.

Fourth sister is so well-informed. It seems that Aunt Yao’s hand has already reached the main courtyard.

Zhang Xiaoman lowered his eyes and picked up the pen.

The room was silent for a moment, with only the rustling sound of the pen tip rubbing against the letter paper.

Looking at the words on the paper, Zhang Junyi couldn't help but be surprised. Unlike what he had imagined, Xiaoman's handwriting was graceful and flexible, and even revealed a hint of the style of a master.

Just when I was about to ask her if she had ever been to school, I saw the words "Chen Ling'an" appear on the paper.

Zhang Junyi's head was buzzing, and he cried out, "Is he the person you want to inquire about?"

The pen tip paused, and Zhang Xiaoman looked over hopefully, "Do you know Chen Ling'an?"