From outside came the sound of the coachman whipping and shouting, and then the wheels started to rumble. In the semi-darkness of the carriage, the brocade curtain fluttered, and a few rays of light from outside scattered in, making the inside a little brighter. Who else could the person sitting there be but Gu Tingye?
The car was strangely quiet. He leaned forward slightly and said slowly, "Aunt, I haven't seen you for a long time."
Old Lady Yanggu had never dreamed that he would appear here. She froze in shock, stunned for a moment, and then shrilly demanded, "What are you doing here?"
Gu Tingye did not answer this, but leisurely said something else: "When the Marquis of Xuanmen married his daughter, it was a grand occasion in the capital; when Princess Pingning got married, the Marquis of Xiangyang married countless people with her, so it was inevitable that the lady would be envious."
Old Lady Yang's eyelids suddenly jumped, and she looked straight at Gu Tingye - she had only been out of the Madam's place for half a cup of tea! She said in a deep voice: "What a sharp-eyed person! He is really not the same as before."
Gu Tingye seemed unfazed and smiled, "About a decade ago, Marquis Xuanmen was ordered to garrison Yantong Prefecture in the northwest. Unexpectedly, they were attacked by a large force of Western Rong soldiers. With only a few thousand soldiers left in the city, they were unable to rescue them in time. As the city fell, Marquis Xuanmen and his four sons were on the verge of dying. The Rui family, a prominent family in the neighboring city, got the news. Old General Rui, who was retired and upright, immediately sent his clan members and household soldiers to rescue them. They finally held out until reinforcements arrived. Marquis Xuanmen's family was saved, but pitifully, Old Shangshu Rui, of all his children and grandchildren, only had a young son, born out of wedlock, left."
After saying this, he stopped talking and just stared at Old Lady Yang, a hint of mockery in her eyes. Old Lady Yang was filled with anger, but she couldn't lose her temper. How could she not know what happened back then? That's why she spoke to the old lady in such a tone just now.
Gu Tingye was very pleased with this expression, and then he continued slowly: "After Xuanmen Hou returned to the capital, he married his youngest daughter to the young master of the Rui family, and gave more than half of the family property as a dowry. I wonder if the Han family also has such deep kindness and generosity towards the Gu family?"
Old lady Yanggu's face turned black, and her teeth made a slight grinding sound, but she remained silent, pretending to be non-violent and non-resistant.
"As for Princess Pingning's marriage..." Gu Tingye smiled. "My nephew was still young at the time. I only remember that the old lady of the Yang family personally acted as the matchmaker. My aunt also took a few cousins to have a drink. Could it be that she didn't know about the connection?"
Old Madam Yang Gu continued to resist with silence, refusing to communicate. Gu Tingye's smile gradually faded, and he said solemnly and coldly, "Aunt has indeed changed her temper. She is so calm and composed. I think the Madam must have put a lot of effort into it."
Old Lady Yang, known for her fiery temper, couldn't help but yell, "Don't provoke me! I'm old enough to have a great-grandson soon, so I'm not afraid of you sneaking around. Just tell me what you want!"
"No need for anything, but I want to ask you a word." Gu Tingye's tone was calm, like an invisible hand pressing down on the other party, with hidden power. Old Lady Yang Gu endured it again and again, took a few deep breaths before saying: "...Yes, she did something dishonest, I have already told her. If she doesn't change, I will never interfere with this marriage! How is it, are you satisfied?"
These words were spoken angrily and quickly, like a string of cannonballs, and a faint smile appeared at the corner of Gu Tingye's lips.
Old Lady Yanggu was unable to contain her anger. She glanced at him from the corners of her wrinkled eyes and said, "Although this is wrong, it is understandable. It's her fault that Can girl has no one to rely on. She can't rely on her capable brother. How can her mother not be worried? She has been kind and generous all her life, and in the end she made a mistake in just this one thing. Why are you so stubborn!"
Gu Tingye showed contempt and snorted coldly: "The Gu family has not touched the meritorious land for hundreds of years. She just gave it away as she said. It's better not to accept such kindness!" Every word was as sharp as a blade.
Old Lady Yang refused to admit defeat and sneered in a strange tone, "Yes, I almost forgot. It was all thanks to your mother that the Gu family's ancestral property was preserved. You don't need to remind us. Everyone in the Gu family, young and old, remembers this kindness and dares not forget it!"
"Is this how the Gu family repays you?!" Gu Tingye's eyes were as cold as ice.
"What a joke! Is it the Gu family's fault that you're so stubborn and unruly? You've been messing around outside all day, and your father hasn't scolded you or taught you a lesson. You're a hopeless case, yet you blame others!"
If these words had been said a few years ago, Gu Tingye would have been furious. However, by this time, he had been toughened by the vicissitudes of life and did not take it seriously. He only replied with a cold sneer: "I never deny what I have done! But am I the only one in the Gu family who is like this? The old man is in the dark and doesn't know about it, so don't you, aunt, know about it outside?"
The aunt and niece had similar personalities, their words blaring back and forth, each refusing to yield. Old Lady Yang choked on the last sentence. The capital was a bustling place, with countless ways to entertain. The sons of the powerful often developed some bad habits, but after reaching adulthood and marrying, they might become more disciplined or learn how to cover up and clean up their messes.
Gu Tingbing was greedy for money and coveted wealth and prestige, while Gu Tingyang was lustful and his young wife, a prostitute, was not afraid of anything. They had both gotten into trouble, even a murder case, and all of this was covered up by the Madam, so the four and five liang rooms were extremely grateful to her. But when it came to Gu Tingye...
"Will your aunt be embarrassed in the Yang family by marrying into the salt merchant family?" Gu Tingye relaxed his shoulders, leaned against the wall of the car, and half-mockingly laughed at her.
Old Lady Yanggu was speechless for a moment, and the past suddenly flooded into her mind.
By then, she had given birth to two daughters in quick succession. As her eldest son, a concubine, grew older, her mother-in-law was powerful, and her sisters-in-law were troublesome. As the eldest daughter-in-law, she faced countless difficulties. Her eldest brother, her mother's brother, had married such an unsuitable wife. Her husband's family, both openly and covertly, grumbled and mocked her. Even if the food was a little bland, someone would joke, "You're too frugal, your sister-in-law! Why don't you ask your mother's sister-in-law for some salt?" and then laugh heartily. She was always proud and unwilling to explain, so she could only force a smile.
She knew that her elder brother was in trouble, her sister-in-law Qin was pitiful, and her parents on her mother's side were helpless, so she directed all her resentment, which had nowhere to vent, towards Bai, and naturally, also extended to Gu Tingye.
Her throat gurgled a few times, and she wanted to say something, but she couldn't form any words. She looked up and saw a dark light floating. The light that came into the car was no longer bright bluish-white, but a dim reddish afterglow of the setting sun. The person sitting opposite her had a broad forehead and a straight nose, and was surprisingly similar to the old and dying face in her memory.
"Brother... before your father passed away, he was always thinking about you." She suddenly spoke, her eyes unusually dim, as if she had aged significantly in an instant, and her voice was low and hoarse. "Later, brother no longer recognized me. He kept asking people to look for you and bring you back, telling you not to sleep in the open, fearing that you would suffer. What a pity..."
Although he already knew it, Gu Tingye still felt a tightness in his heart and a suffocating feeling when he heard it again.
"Since we have come to this point today, I might as well say it out loud. From the very beginning, I believed that your mother was not worthy of being the head wife of the Gu family. And with your actions afterwards, I felt even more that you were not worthy of inheriting the title. Therefore, even though I knew some things, I never said them. But who knows that man proposes, God disposes. Now..." Old Lady Yang narrated slowly and frankly, her eyes tense and almost bleak. In fact, ever since her eldest brother passed away, she felt guilty and never set foot in Ningyuan Marquis' Mansion again.
Thinking of this, she suddenly felt a surge of pride in her heart. She raised her head and sneered, "Gu has no regrets about what he did. I'm not the fourth or fifth brother, one is confused, the other is spineless! I didn't help you when you were down, and now that you're on the rise, I won't come to take advantage of you! I didn't even come to your wedding, so you can just pretend that I don't exist as your aunt. Even if the Yang family is in great trouble one day, I will never come to look for you!"
After saying this in such a decisive manner, her old bones seemed to be falling apart. She said in a hoarse voice, "But Sister Can... nephew Wei is used to a comfortable life. You and her have little brotherly affection. Her family, the Dongchang Marquis Mansion, has long been closed. I, I can't sit idly by and watch her lifelong affairs. At least I can find her a suitable in-law family, so that I can do my duty to my eldest brother."
"Once your sister's marriage is settled, I will no longer visit the Gu family. Don't worry, and tell your wife too, I won't come here to act like an aunt." Old Lady Yang said this through gritted teeth, paused, and whispered, "...If the Han family's marriage doesn't work out, we'll have to look at other families. Miss Can is ignorant, so please help her if you can. After all, we are siblings."
Gu Tingye was her own child, and he was naturally arrogant. Expecting him to repay her kindness was pure fantasy. It would be a good thing if he didn't return the favor, but it would be hard to get any better. How could he possibly continue to act so arrogantly as if he were an elder? She saw all this clearly, and things were no longer the same as they used to be.
That day, when she went to Gu Tingcan's house to discuss marriage, all her vexatiousness was just a reaction to her habit. The sight of the plump and healthy young couple had left her furious. After returning home, she deeply regretted her own impatience and humiliation. However, no matter how hard she tried to calm herself, she couldn't control her anger at the sight of this disgusting nephew.
Gu Tingye listened quietly, and then suddenly smiled: "Don't worry, aunt, the Han family's marriage will definitely be successful."
"How... do you know?" Old Lady Yang asked curiously.
"After this incident, if the Han family agrees to the marriage, both sides will save face." Gu Tingye scoffed, "Seventh sister is too old to be picky anymore, and the lady-in-waiting has high standards and will definitely not give in."
He gently lifted a corner of the carriage curtain and glanced at the sky outside. "Madam, I'm sure you'll know what's best to do."
"Could it be..." Old Lady Yang's heart moved, "This matter was done by you."
Gu Tingye glanced at her lightly. Old Madam Yang felt a chill in her heart for no reason, and her fingers trembled a few times, but she heard him say, "Aunt, do you feel that the Madam has been wronged?"
Old Lady Yanggu remained silent. It was indeed the truth, and there was nothing to be wronged about.
"It would be best if we could talk it out today." Gu Tingye lowered the curtain and placed one hand lightly on the small table. "We don't have any deep hatred among our family. Even if there are some disagreements, they are not unworkable. When Seventh Sister gets married, please invite Aunt to come for a drink."
Old Lady Yanggu chewed the words carefully, understood the meaning of the words, nodded and said: "Now you are the head of the family, I will save you the good and the bad."
She felt as though the day's exhaustion and excitement had nearly shaved off ten years of her lifespan. She knew exactly why Gu Tingye had come. Since she'd married, she was already considered an outsider, so he didn't mind having another relative, but he wanted one less aunt to cause trouble. It wouldn't sit well with him if he were to bully all of his closest relatives right after inheriting the title.
Anyway, she had said everything she needed to say. In the future, she would stop acting like an elder, and Gu Tingye would not bear grudges. The past was over. Now she couldn't bring herself to rekindle their relationship. So, it was better to avoid making an enemy.
"It's getting late, nephew will go back now." Gu Tingye bowed and said goodbye.
As soon as he stopped the carriage and lifted the curtain, he saw two tearful maids and a timid daughter-in-law standing outside the carriage. She was the one who had just helped the old lady into the carriage, as well as a frightened coachman and a team of brave and agile horseback guards following behind.
"Madam, I, we..." The coachman and the daughter-in-law hurriedly explained.
Old Lady Yang waved her hand impatiently: "Let's talk about it when we get back."
It was already dark, and the alley was deserted and very quiet. When the first guard dismounted, leading a majestic and sturdy horse over and respectfully handed the reins to Gu Tingye, the old lady suddenly said, "Wait a minute."
Gu Tingye was slightly startled. He turned to look at her and took a few steps closer. Then he heard her say hurriedly, "I know you don't like her. She did have some inappropriate thoughts about you, and her actions were excessive. But for decades, she's taken care of the whole family. Even if she hasn't made any contributions, she's worked hard. You, please, for your father's sake, raise your hand."
Gu Tingye laughed and said, "Please rest assured about this, aunt. If she stops here and doesn't cause any more trouble, I won't argue with her forever. But if she still doesn't give up, then..." He laughed twice without any smile.
The old lady was dejected. She herself had been a daughter-in-law for many years and finally became a mother-in-law. She was well aware of the twists and turns in the inner court. Xiao Qinshi was a smart person. She was naturally kind to those relatives who were not important to her, but she would not hesitate to take action against those who stood in her way. After all, they had been sisters-in-law for many years, so she had spoken up for her.
She whispered, "It's best that you think so."
"Don't worry, aunt. Those trivial grudges are not worth my effort!" Gu Tingye saw the old lady's worried face, sneered and walked away, and swiftly jumped on the horse, "A real man can't just rely on his ancestors' influence, relying on his own ability to make achievements is the real journey! After all, if my third brother has a great future, she will have an iron grip on the Gu family!"
Before he could finish his words, he heard the sound of whips being whipped, followed by the resounding sound of horses' hooves hitting the bluestone slabs. Like a gust of wind, the group of athletes vanished into the depths of the alley in a moment. Old Lady Gu watched them go, sitting alone in the carriage, her mind racing.
…
Two sets of bowls, chopsticks, and plates were already set on a delicate round table bordered by a pattern of blooming crabapple blossoms. Minglan, leaning back on the bed in the inner room, was reading a comic book titled "Jin Yu Nu Beats Her Unfaithful Lover with a Stick," with great relish. Danju entered from outside and whispered, "Madam, are you going to set the table?" Minglan freed a hand and shook it, "No, the Marquis hasn't returned yet."
Danju advised, "I don't know when the Marquis will return home. Madam is already pregnant, why not use some first?"
Minglan, still holding the scroll upright, said jokingly without looking up, "My dear girl, I, your wife, have already eaten five meals today. Even if I'm feeding the pigs, I should take a break."
Xiaotao, gripping a pair of copper tongs with cotton-padded handles in one hand and a garnet-inlaid stovetop screen with the other, gently stirring the charcoal, burst into laughter. Danju rolled her eyes, stepped forward, took a small white jade hand warmer from Minglan's hand, and walked over to Xiaotao to add new charcoal. Just as she had tonged two small pieces of silver-thread charcoal, the door curtain gently opened, and Mother Cui entered, carrying a small tea tray.
Mother Cui approached Minglan and said, "It's okay to wait for the Marquis. Eat this first. It won't make you feel full, and it won't interfere with your meal later." On the small tea tray sat a steaming warm teacup. Lifting the lid, a rich, milky, and fruity aroma filled the air, a truly enticing aroma. This egg custard was made by mixing fresh cow's and goat's milk with a little egg yolk juice, adding some beaten applesauce, and garnishing it with a few crushed amber-colored longans. It was best steamed thoroughly.
"This is the fresh milk from the farm today. It arrived here just two hours ago. It's incredibly fresh. Eat it while it's hot." Mother Cui, unmoved, snatched the scroll from Minglan's hand and thrust a spoon into hers. A chill still hung in the wrinkles of her face. The egg custard was delicious, and with Mother Cui standing by her side, her gaze fixed on her like a shrewd eagle, Minglan had no choice but to eat, even though she wasn't the least bit hungry.
Seeing that she was eating with relish, a smile appeared on her dull face. She couldn't help nagging: "Madam, eat more now while your appetite is still good. When the old lady was pregnant, she vomited everything she saw..." She suddenly stopped talking. The child who died young was a sad taboo and no one dared to mention it.
She was good at serving and taking care of things. She was able to raise Minglan, who looked like a kitten, to be fat and plump. She must have been quite skilled in this. The milk soup was only the size of her palm, and Minglan finished it quickly.
Mother Cui glanced at the two maids and said, "There are still some left. I saved some for you. They are warming up on the stove. Go and get some to eat." Xiao Tao had been feeling hungry for a long time. Upon hearing this, she happily took the empty cup and went out.
Danju was obedient and knew that Madam Cui had something to say to Minglan in private, so she stuffed the white jade hand warmer back into Minglan's hands, then lowered the thick cotton curtain, closed another door, and went to the outer room to guard. Xiaotao had already reached the door and felt a little embarrassed when she saw this. She leaned over to Danju's ear and said, "Good sister, I'll bring it to you to eat."
"Little girl, you still have a conscience." Danju smiled and poked her forehead with a finger.
In the room - "Madam..." Mother Cui was not good at speaking, and after saying these two words, she didn't know how to continue.
Minglan heard something strange in her voice and waited with a smile, "Mom, go ahead."
Mother Cui took a deep breath and said, "Madam, I heard that the Third Madam has given a maid a favor and asked her to serve the Third Master."
Minglan was slightly surprised: "I remember that when my sister-in-law was pregnant, she had already conceived a girl." Besides, Gu Tingwei had concubines, so it was not as if he had no women to sleep with just because his wife was pregnant.
Mother Cui looked a bit disdainful, but she still said, "It was just that girl. She said she wasn't feeling well and couldn't serve anymore, so the Third Madam sent a new one over."
"You're not feeling well?" Minglan asked curiously. Could it be that the Third Madam was jealous and hateful and had committed suicide?
Mother Cui smacked her lips helplessly and lowered her voice, "I heard she's pregnant."
Minglan was stunned for a moment, then uttered an "oh." Neither of them spoke for a moment, and the room was silent. After a moment, Minglan whispered, "I know what Mom meant."
Mother Cui was also in a dilemma. How could she bear to see her child, whom she had raised, suffer such grievances? But she had no other choice. She sat down next to Minglan, held her hand, and said with difficulty: "Madam, you are not feeling well now. Rather than having someone of unknown origin come to you in the future, it would be better to send a reliable and honest person to serve the Marquis."
Minglan smiled bitterly in her heart, she knew this day would come.
Seeing Minglan silent, Madam Cui assumed she was upset. "Madam, I know you're unhappy, but there's nothing I can do about it." Remembering how the old lady had argued repeatedly with Old Master Sheng over the issue of taking in a concubine, which ultimately led to marital discord, she said worriedly, "I've seen these girls over the years, and they're all good. Xiaotao is honest, Danju is loyal, and although Luzhi can be a bit sharp-tongued, she's also a genuine person. Better..."
Minglan shook her head slowly and sighed, "Mom, you are an elder of the Sheng family. Do you still remember Sixth Brother's biological mother, Concubine Xiang?"
Mother Cui was caught off guard by Minglan's sudden mention of this, and was momentarily bewildered. Minglan then added, "Concubine Xiang used to be Madam's personal maid, accompanying her since childhood. I heard the master and servant were as close as sisters. But then...after Concubine Xiang became pregnant, Madam began to be wary of her, and the two grew apart. Years later, after Concubine Xiang gave birth to my sixth brother, that little bit of affection was long gone."
"Who says it's not true?" Madam Cui sighed. "It's also because Concubine Xiang is so tolerant. No matter how poorly she's treated, she never complains. She only praises Madam in front of others. Even the Sixth Young Master doesn't dare to take a penny from the mistress. That's why Madam tolerates them."
Minglan nodded. Concubine Xiang was the epitome of a concubine, cautious and dutiful, never harboring even the slightest evil intention. Even the housekeepers and respected mothers in the Sheng family were more respectable than her. Minglan retorted, "But can this be considered narrow-minded, Madam? Once a woman has her own children, it's hard to say..."
Mother Cui choked. This was true. If it was a daughter, it would be fine. A concubine wouldn't cause trouble, and the concubines would be more content. But if it was a son... who wouldn't want a son with a bright future and a bigger share of the family property?
After all, it is a minority of people who live in harmony with their wives and concubines, and with their half-brothers.
Minglan said slowly: "When they are needed, let them be my servants, and when they are not needed, be on guard against them. If they want to do it on their own, it's fine, otherwise... I can't treat them as objects like this. Maybe I don't have the tolerance to treat others, and I can't really treat the little ones as sisters." Ancient education is just a shell to Yao Yiyi.
"What are you talking about, madam? How many people in this world can treat Xiao Xing'er as a sister? But, then... what should we do?" Mother Cui was speechless and had no words to say.
"There's always a way." Minglan smiled, not wanting to say more. It was incredibly easy for men these days to cheat, but resisting the allure of beautiful women took immense willpower. She shouldn't rush into it and make things awkward for herself; she could just let things take their own course.
At this time, Danju outside reported loudly: "The Marquis is back."
Minglan woke up slightly and saw Gu Tingye walking in with big strides from outside. Mother Cui quickly became alert, stood up respectfully, greeted him, and then retreated. Minglan wanted to get up to undress him, but he picked her up in one go. The two of them half leaned and half sat on the head of the couch.
Gu Tingye smelled the fruity and milky fragrance on Minglan's body, so he sniffed her face and neck: "What's that smell?" Minglan was tickled by his stubble and giggled: "I just had some snacks. If you like, why not try some?" Gu Tingye shook his head. In fact, he didn't like sweets, but the fragrance on Minglan's body was like that of a milk lamb, and it smelled very good.
"Have you explained everything to your aunt?" Minglan pulled the head of the man who was kissing her neck.
Gu Tingye snorted vaguely. Minglan didn't understand what he meant, so she asked again, "You won't instigate someone to take the Yang cousins out for a drink?" Gu Tingye put his big hand on her belly and said reluctantly, "Consider it a good deed for that little bastard."
Minglan really wanted to reply, "Your son is a little bastard, so aren't you a rabbit yourself?" However, the old lady would not come to pick a fight with her anymore, which was a good thing after all, so she smiled and didn't say anything back.
"But," Gu Tingye hesitated, "You're pregnant now. If they quit, what will you do with such a big family? Why not take it easy?"
Minglan thought for a moment, then looked him in the face and said seriously, "Do you think I'm the kind of person who would devote myself wholeheartedly to my work?"
If Zhuge Liang could live to the age of Emperor Qianlong, the world might have been ruled by the Liu family. Sima Yi's physique could not have survived him. Only when one is in good health can one continue the revolution.
Gu Tingye also thought about it seriously: "Absolutely not."
The answer was so quick that someone was a little unhappy.
Minglan was not actually very worried. Now that she was pregnant, it was an extraordinary performance for her to manage the mansion well. It was understandable that she did not manage it well. If she had any complaints, she would go outside and cry that the lady-in-waiting was deliberately bullying her. She did not hand over the power earlier or later, but just gave it back as soon as she was pregnant. What a good excuse.
Because there was an excess of milk sent from the farm, which had been left for a long time and was no longer fresh, Mrs. Ge made some cheese and egg and milk pastry. Minglan ordered it to be sent to various places for tasting, and Kouxiangyuan also received some.
"Hmm, this milk roll smells really good, and it's still hot. Maybe it's fresh from the stove. Sister, please try it." Qiu Niang took a bite and felt the fragrance lingering on her teeth and cheeks. She praised, "It's so fragrant, I wonder how much fresh milk is used in it."
Gong Hongxiao stroked the clump of green-stamened, apricot-yellow wintersweets embroidered on her sleeves. "This is for Sister Rong, right? We're not that lucky. If Madam knew, she'd think we sisters are just scrounging for the girl's favors all day long."
Qiu Niang stopped eating the snacks in her hand, looking a little embarrassed. A maid who was tidying up the food boxes behind her couldn't help but say, "Aunt, please don't scare her. When I took the things from the old woman just now, she said clearly that the small food box is for the eldest lady, and this box is for you two." After saying this, she left angrily, and slammed the door curtain hard when she went out.
"Xiao Lianou is right. Madam won't bother with us about this." Qiu Niang watched her leave, seeming to be relieved.
Hong Xiao glanced at her, smiled, stood up, closed the door, and turned around and said, "My dear sister, I was mistaken just now. In the past, I was worried that the Madam would be difficult to get along with. You still have some friendship with the Marquis, but I am all alone and don't know how to ask others to take care of me. But these days, the Madam has treated us very well!"
Qiu Niang stared at the candlelight in a daze and sighed, "Yes. Madam, you have a very kind heart."
Hong Xiao's eyes flickered as she sat down next to Qiu Niang and said affectionately, "I've noticed that Madam is kind and gentle. Even if we make a mistake, she never takes it to heart."
Qiu Niang's face turned red. She knew what she was referring to and lowered her head in embarrassment.
"Now that Madam is pregnant, you must share her worries."
Qiu Niang was stunned: "How to share the worries?"
"You fool, of course it's the Marquis." Hong Xiao laughed so hard that the pearl hairpins on her temples trembled. "Sister, think about it carefully. The Marquis is picky and others are not used to serving him. But with the lady in such a condition, it's not good to make her tired."
To have made it this far in the inner chamber, even the most honest and obedient maid must have some instinctive thoughts. Even Qiu Niang, no matter how dull she was, could tell that Hong Xiao had bad intentions. But sometimes, the most obvious tricks are the most effective.
Thinking that Gu Tingye didn't have a caring and thoughtful person to serve him, Qiu Niang couldn't help but worry. The thought that had been dormant for a long time jumped out again. Rather than letting a restless and scheming girl take advantage of the opportunity, it would be better for her to do it herself. I think the lady would understand.
Hong Xiao looked at her coldly, knowing that her mind had become active, so she said nothing more and slowly returned to her room.
Qiu Niang returned to the house in an uncertain state of mind. She sat in front of the makeup mirror and looked at her still pretty face. She couldn't help but feel excited. At this time, Xiao Lianou came in with a basin of hot water, followed by a little girl holding a handkerchief and underwear.
"Little Lianou, you," Qiu Niang bit her lip, "come with me tomorrow morning to pay my respects to the Madam. Aren't you good friends with the sisters in the courtyard? Can you find out some things for me..."
"Miss!" Little Lotus Root interrupted her angrily, "Although my life isn't as precious as yours, I've followed you since I was ten years old and have served you loyally for so many years. If you want to die, go ahead and do it yourself! Don't use me as a pillow!"
"What nonsense are you talking about, you little bitch!" Qiu Niang was yelled at and slammed the dressing table and cursed back.
Little Lotus Root slammed the copper basin down on the shelf, then turned around and put her hands on her hips and said, "Don't be fooled by Madam's kindness. Just look at what happened to Wu'er. She dared to flirt with him in the study, and the steward beat her up. Her legs were broken, and she was sent to the farm to recuperate. Even if she recovers, she'll probably be crippled. I heard yesterday that the farm mother is marrying her off! Now that things have quieted down in the house across the street, you're going to start jumping around again?!"
Qiu Niang's face flushed red and blue, her fingers dug into the fabric of her clothes, and she said angrily, "I haven't said anything yet! And you poured out a dustpan! Have you forgotten who is the master?"
"Alright, alright!" Another little girl hurried out to smooth things over. As she closed the door, she came over and took Qiu Niang's hand, saying softly, "Good girl, don't take it to heart. You know Sister Lianou's temper. She's always got a bad mouth. You've been together for so many years, and she's doing this for your own good!"
Qiu Niang calmed down a bit. Although the little girl was young, she was quite good at persuading people. "The Marquis's meaning is very clear. He sent Sister Rong to you as a favor! You'll have someone to rely on in the future, so just take good care of her. It would be fine if the Marquis came to look for you, but if you stick your head in his way, not only will he be annoyed and think you're ungrateful, but even the people in the mansion will laugh at you for being shameless."
After saying this, Little Lotus Root whispered, "Miss, it's all my fault. My mouth is such a nuisance! I'm just afraid that you'll get taken advantage of by that witch over there. Sister Rong trusts you and likes you. Let's just be good and live a peaceful life together. Nothing is better than that. Madam also said last time that when Sister Rong turns ten, she'll make you a concubine. If it's suitable, she'll also help your father and brother get jobs."
The two maids, one soft and the other hard, tried to persuade her in any way. Although Qiu Niang was unwilling, she backed down.
After helping Qiu Niang to bed, the two maids went out and only spoke after they had walked about ten steps.
"Huh, Sister Lianou, it's a good thing you dared to speak up today, otherwise Miss Qiu would be confused again." The little girl patted her chest.
Little Lotus Root sighed and said, "Alas, she is actually a smart person and has a good heart. She just can't let go of the Marquis and keeps thinking that one day God will open his eyes. But she doesn't think about the fact that she will be thirty in two years. How can she ask for favors from others? Isn't it embarrassing? Even if Madam wants to show favor to the maid, she has so many capable and trustworthy people around her, so why not use her? I have been with her for so many years, and I don't want to see her make a fool of herself."
The little girl complimented him, "Sister, you are so kind. I am so lucky to have you by my side to advise me. I heard from my sister at the Madam's that even she thinks you are a good person. She even told your family to find a good match for you."
Little Lotus Root blushed and spat, "What nonsense, little kid! We're so young, and you're still thinking about this all day!" Then he sighed, "No one is stupid. Your godmother asked us to keep an eye on Miss Qiu because it's for her own good."
The little girl nodded repeatedly: "Yes, yes."
Little Lotus Root sneered, "Actually, if Madam wants to punish Miss Luoqiu, she might as well just watch her get into trouble and see what happens. It's just that she's worked so hard, and she can't bear it. Speaking of which, the master of Xuanrui Hall is the best at this!"
Xuanrui Hall is located in the center of the main hall of the Ningyuan Marquis Mansion.
At this time, it was just getting dark, and the lady was in a bad mood. Waves of anger surged to her chest, and her well-maintained hands almost crushed the teacup. In the afternoon, she was bullied by old lady Yang, and before she could come up with a solution, this happened again in the evening.
Zhu, who was standing by, held her belly with great effort and smiled, "Mother, don't be angry. If you hurt yourself, it's your daughter-in-law's fault. It's a good thing that the Third Master is having a good birth. I've assigned the maids and the old women to take care of Xin'er, so I think it will be fine."
The old lady clapped her hands heavily and scolded Gu Tingwei, who was kneeling below her, "You are such a loser! You can't study or practice martial arts, and you can only tinker with these trivial things! You have such a virtuous daughter-in-law, and you hurt her heart like this?! How can I face her father?"
Gu Tingwei's knees ached from kneeling, but he dared not answer. Zhu Shi had no choice but to help persuade him, "Mother, please don't blame Third Master. Xin'er is smart and well-behaved, and I like her too. If we have children in the future, she will be Xian Ge'er's arm, right?"
"What do you mean by being obedient?" the old lady scolded. "This little vixen is so cunning and scheming! I clearly gave the medicine lady instructions, yet she actually dared to secretly pour out the medicine. Even if she wanted more offspring, she wouldn't want the offspring of this lowly woman! Quick, go get someone to tie up that bitch and take her to the farm to force-feed her with the medicine. Don't let her soil the Marquis's land!"
"Mother!" Gu Tingwei said with a look of pity, "Xin'er is a weak woman. If she were to torture him like this, not only would it be a disaster for the child, but also her life..."
"Shut up! How dare you disobey!" The lady asked sternly. Gu Tingye had always been filial and could only endure it.
The lady turned around and took Zhu's hand, saying lovingly, "Don't worry, my dear child. With me here, no one will dare to wrong you!"
Zhu was both ashamed and moved: "Mother, is this okay?"
"Don't worry about it. I know what to do." The lady said firmly, "You are in poor health. Go back and rest. I still need to teach this brat a lesson!"
Zhu responded, leaning against the maid and slowly walked out.
Gu Tingwei watched as Zhu left the house and the thick curtain at the door slowly dropped. He then whispered, "Mother, are you really going to deal with Xin'er? Wasn't she given to your son as a reward?"
The Madam slowly lifted the teacup and took a sip. "Get up, you fool! That foolish girl, more trouble than good, even dares to pretend to obey my words. Today, she dares to do such a thing, relying on her respectability in front of me. One day, she will dare to step on the head of the mistress! It's not a pity for her to die."
Gu Tingwei felt dizzy and slowly got up from the ground: "But...Xin'er..."
"Don't mention her anymore!" The old lady was furious, but she couldn't help but soften her heart when she saw her only son. She said slowly, "Don't you know my painstaking efforts? Now is the time to rely on the Chengping Marquis's Mansion. Your father-in-law only has this one daughter, you, you...Okay, let's talk about something else. It's not easy for you to do your previous job, so go back and do it. I..."
Gu Tingwei hung his head, looking listless. Only after hearing this did he look up and say, "Mom, don't worry about this. My second brother has found me a new job. There just happens to be a vacancy in the Wucheng Military Commission."
The Madam was stunned for a moment, and Gu Tingwei quickly said, "The military service is much more lucrative than the imperial guards."
After a long while, the lady slowly said, "Your second brother is known for his ability."
"My second sister-in-law's eldest brother-in-law is the second master of the Yuan family in the Zhongqin Marquis's mansion. He is currently in charge of the entire city. I heard that he is a very straightforward and generous man. I would like to get to know him."
"Your second sister-in-law is also capable."
The lady released her fingers that were tightly gripping the armrest. Her well-maintained face looked like a woman in her forties, but the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes could not be concealed. The fine lines overlapped and intertwined like a meticulous spider web.
She showed a patient smile, "I think everything will be fine in her hands."
…
The night wind blew hard, and the window panes creaked softly, the thick, delicate satin fluttering softly, like the fluttering wings of a reckless moth, eager to break free from the night's constraints, wanting to flutter away despite its fragile body. Minglan, her hair half wet, sat before the warm incense burner, one hand resting on the table, listening attentively to this strange and wonderful sound.
"Madam, the Marquis sent someone to say that he and Mr. Gongsun will be discussing matters late, so he asked you to go to bed first." Danju came in quietly, holding a dry and soft towel in her hand, and slowly rubbed Minglan's hair.
Minglan nodded, still silent. Danju asked curiously, "What are you thinking about, Madam?"
"Listening to the sound of the wind outside, it seems like it's going to rain."
Danju smiled and said, "Yes, these days, it gets even colder after a rain."
"Snakes, insects, rats and ants are about to come out of their holes."
Minglan looked at the slightly distorted light around the fireplace and smiled faintly. Some things won't stop happening just because you're afraid of them, and don't try to make peace with them. Maybe they won't take prisoners.
Seven days later, the lady-in-waiting handed over the list of ancestral land deeds to Gu Tingye and invited the elders of the Gu family to attend the inventory; half a month later, the princess's mansion invited a matchmaker to the marquis's mansion to make a small engagement.
Chapter 163: Beautiful as an autumn lotus, beautiful in her tranquility, she excels in poetry, arias, calligraphy, and painting, and is proficient in all arts. Fireworks boom, plum blossoms piled with snow, and the entire capital is filled with joy. The New Year's Eve dinner at the Ningyuan Marquis's mansion in the third year of Chongde's reign is particularly special. Facing the table laden with exquisite New Year's dishes, the Dowager said with a touch of sadness, "Alas, our family is a little small. I think of your fourth and fifth uncles, where grandchildren can squeeze into two or three tables."
Gu Tingcan turned her head back to look out the window. Her beautiful and slender neck was like a white swan on the lake. Her face was cold and indifferent: "That's right. It was so lively in previous years. It's not like now. It's so cold and deserted. It doesn't feel like the New Year at all."
Shao looked gloomy, with her head down and no words, her gaze turned to Sister Xian who was standing beside her; Zhu stroked her big belly and frowned slightly; Minglan pretended not to understand, and was shy and unconscious, covering her mouth with a handkerchief from time to time.
Gu Tingwei was equally clueless. He laughed and said, "I told you to invite the Qingxi Troupe to liven things up, but my mother wouldn't allow it."
Zhu was anxious and hurried to see Shao. The lady gave her son a sidelong glance and scolded him, "What are you doing? It hasn't been nine months since your elder brother passed away." Gu Tingwei smiled with a guilty look on his face.
Gu Tingye's expression was normal, and he slowly put down his chopsticks: "You are right, it is indeed cold.
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