Chapter 9, Daughter-in-law, Meeting the In-laws

Miss, if you go out in such a manner that incites public anger, the young master's eyes are sure to fall out

Day and night without rest? I looked at him with sympathy and said, "This condition is indeed difficult, but have you found a good doctor?"

He leaned closer and tugged at my sleeve

The boatman's wife happened to bring in some tea, and upon seeing me frowning and retching, while Jiang Chen was gently rubbing my back, she immediately displayed an expression as if she had found a kindred spirit and kindly asked, "Is it possible that the lady is also with child?"

In the center of the hall, a middle-aged woman sat gracefully on a zitan chair, her features exquisite and her elegance beyond words. I suddenly felt that the stunning beauty I had just seen paled in comparison to the presence of this lady before me. I could not articulate what kind of presence it was, but I felt that just one glance at her was soothing, like being enveloped in a gentle spring breeze

The young lady went inside to try it on; if it does not fit, I will have someone alter it immediately, and it will be ready in the time it takes to brew a cup of tea

I am at a loss for words, Xiao Hebao has always stood on the side of outsiders

Jiang Chen chuckled a few times and said to the boatman's wife, "Well, we still need to ask a doctor to take a look to know for sure"

He chuckled and said, "My mother has always enjoyed guessing this and that; I think it would be best for you to change your clothes"

The master furrowed his brow and asked, "What, do you not wish to marry him?"

A middle-aged woman approached with a joyful expression, saying: "Oh, young master, when did you return? Why didn't I hear the madam mention it!"

He touched his forehead: "That is not the case. This condition is easy to treat; it just requires finding a good doctor, receiving treatment day and night, and undergoing long-term care to fully recover"

I am preparing to have a good conversation with Xiaohubao tonight. I usually treat her very well, so why does she always treat me like this

Isn't it just for the husband? He softly uttered a line filled with affection from behind me, and I immediately felt a rush of goosebumps all over my body, while a wave of sourness quickly choked me.

Jiang Chen calmly withdrew his hand, turned to look at me, his eyes filled with affection: "Who says it is meaningless? On the mountain, there are fairies."

Mother, this is Xiao Mo

I smiled back unnaturally, but fortunately, I had been called by my younger siblings and sisters-in-law at the Xiaoyao Gate for quite some time, which prevented me from panicking.

I am speechless

I feel that the density of the torrential rain is unprecedentedly strong, and in an instant, this dress is filled with tiny pinholes, allowing the wind to rush in with a whistling sound

"Young lady, please try those few items as well"

Upon seeing Jiang Chen, they immediately stepped forward in unison, bowing respectfully: "Young Master has returned." Their voices were harmonious, as melodious as the song of a nightingale emerging from the valley

The boatmen moved about as if on solid ground, and even the pregnant boatwoman was as light as a swallow, bustling back and forth. I felt "weak" and ashamed, quietly taking my sword from my waist and placing it under my pillow, truly embarrassed to let anyone know that I had also practiced martial arts, alas

I smiled at her, and she casually glanced at me, gave a perfunctory smile, and immediately shifted her gaze back to Jiang Chen's face. Her hand naturally grasped Jiang Chen's hand, swaying it back and forth a few times, then she frowned playfully and said: "Cousin, you only stayed for half a month when you came back last year, you must not leave again this time. What's so interesting on the mountain? The Xianyao Sect is just a bunch of men, like a monk's temple."

Jiang Chen pulled me forward with a smile and performed a greeting

Jiang Chen chartered a boat at the ferry outside the city to travel by water to the capital. The splendid Jinling, the golden splendor of the Six Dynasties, I have never been there. If it were not for the title of Jiang family's daughter-in-law that I had to bear when meeting my mother-in-law, I would surely be filled with joy and excitement

You are dressed in such loose clothing, I am only afraid it might frighten her, thinking ... ...

I timidly asked, "Um, Sister Gu, is it not good?"

The sedan chair was not crowded at first, so why does it become more cramped the longer we sit? Moreover, the more I try to move to the side, the more crowded it becomes. I realize that Jiang Chen is deliberately pushing against me. This is truly inconsiderate, so I push back without holding back! Unexpectedly, this time I ended up even closer to him, to the point where even places that absolutely should not be touching are now in contact. Alas, this was indeed a miscalculation

My heart raced as I hurriedly asked, "What do you want to do?"

I awkwardly tugged at my clothes and mumbled in a low voice, "Sister Gu is joking."

The master sighed again and said: "Yun Zhou told me that he cannot make decisions regarding his marriage on his own. Although he wishes to be with you, he must obtain his father's consent and first write a letter home to inform his father. After a few days, however, he has not mentioned this matter again and has not replied to me, which must mean that his father does not agree. His father holds a high position and comes from a prestigious family that values social status and family background. With your unclear origins and lack of background, it would be extremely difficult to enter the Yun family. Jiang Chen's father is my senior apprentice, and his mother holds me in high regard. If you marry him, his mother will certainly treat you with kindness, considering my relationship with her and the Xiaoyao Sect. The master wants you to marry Jiang Chen for two reasons: first, to protect your reputation; second, I believe that marrying into the Jiang family will not bring you any grievances.

Where is the joke? This woman is like a flower; those with vibrant blooms usually lack fragrance, while those with rich scents often have ordinary flowers. I have seen many women: those with good figures but slightly lacking in looks, and those with good looks but mediocre figures. A woman like Lady Shao, who possesses both exceptional beauty and figure, is truly rare and precious, a beauty that incites both admiration and envy.

The utterance of "my lady" made me involuntarily regurgitate a mouthful of bile

I grumbled resentfully, "I don't have money to buy clothes, so you can figure it out."

Upon closer inspection, Jiang Chen's appearance is eight parts similar to hers. The remaining two parts of his unruly charm and dashing demeanor are likely inherited from his father

At the entrance, a flash of red light appeared, and a young girl emerged from within. She was strikingly beautiful, dressed in a crimson dress, resembling a pomegranate flower blooming under the scorching sun, dazzling and radiant.

Whose maid is she, after all

I lowered my head and hesitated for a moment, then said softly: "I, I do not like him; can this engagement not be canceled?"

I only intended to meet Lady Qi, but I did not expect to find Brother Qi and Sister Qi here as well. Even more surprising is that Sister Qi is so beautiful and so clingy.

Upon seeing my gloomy demeanor, the master hurriedly asked, "Xiao Mo, why are you not very happy? We, children of the rivers and lakes, do not indulge in that folk custom of weeping at weddings!"

"Little pouch, what do you think?" I hope the little pouch stays alert and gives me a word of truth

I thought you were really pregnant

The space inside the sedan chair is narrow, and he is sitting very close to me. This soft, low murmur of admiration seems to blow a warm current into my ear, creating an indescribable sensation of sweetness and tingling.

After a moment's effort, the painted boat drew near, and at the bow stood a beautiful young lady holding a pipa, her smile as sweet as sugarcane juice. Just as I was enjoying the sight, I heard a delicate voice say, "Would the two young gentlemen like to listen to a tune?"

Little Hobo disdainfully snorted and pouted, saying: "You don't know, my young lady looks even better without clothes"

She must be Lady Qi, the main character of Guiyun Villa. I have heard of her for a long time, but I never expected to meet her one day, especially in such a capacity. Life is truly like a dream, and the affairs of the world are hard to predict

Upon entering the main door, one notices that there are not many customers in the shop, yet their demeanor is refined and their attire is splendid. On the east side of the shop, various fabrics are displayed on the counter, while the entire west wall is adorned with ready-to-wear garments

Other scenery? I stiffened my back and looked closely; apart from the river water, it was still just the river water, occasionally a few small boats drifted across the surface. I couldn't help but ask, "Is there any other scenery?"

Thus, I veered vertically while he encroached horizontally; this journey is truly long, long.

What a handsome young man, but unfortunately he is a broken sleeve

Finally, I have been waiting with bated breath

"My lady, you have been watching for almost half an hour. Why not change the scenery?" As he spoke, he leaned closer. I did not turn around, but I could roughly sense that he was only about half a foot away from me. For some reason, as soon as he approached, my body immediately stiffened.

I turned the screen, and Jiang Chen was sitting there savoring tea. Upon seeing me, the teacup in his hand froze, and he stared at me with wide eyes, slowly standing up.

He hurriedly approached Jiang Chen, clasped his hands in salute, and said: "Cousin, you have worked hard on your journey."

I stepped out of my master's room, standing in the moonlight on the corridor, feeling lost and forlorn. The bright moon remains, yet the world has changed and people are no longer the same. Can Yunzhou and I only miss each other like this? I feel as though I have unwittingly entered a predicament, where each move I make determines life and death. Yet, with this final move, can I turn the tide?

Jiang Chen nodded and said: "Xiao Mo, this is my cousin Shaohua"

As he spoke, he unceremoniously took my hand and placed it on his chest, pointing out that it was firm and warm. I hurriedly withdrew my hand. I did not know whether his heart was beating fast, but mine was certainly racing.

Jiang Chen wore a caring and concerned expression, gently saying: "My dear, it truly worries me to see you fainting over such minor winds and waves."

Is it not possible

Upon entering the grand gate, one is greeted by a panoramic view of intricately carved beams and painted pillars, pavilions and towers, all exuding an air of elegance and grandeur. Along the corridors, a variety of flowers and plants flourish, filling the air with delightful fragrances. In my opinion, the Guiyun Mountain Villa is even more impressive than Master Yuanzhao's shaded retreat, and it is truly an understatement to merely call it a villa.

Jiang Chen laughed even more joyfully

Well, that's really good. You truly know how to do business

Walking along the corridor of ascending prosperity, stepping onto the nine-tiered white marble stairs leads into the main hall, which is even more resplendent and magnificent, leaving one in awe

Finally, the sedan chair came to a stop, and I let out a long sigh. Without waiting for him to assist me, I jumped out.

Therefore, Uncle Qi solemnly advised all the senior brothers that in the future, when descending the mountain to marry, if they have daughters, they must not develop a fondness for food, and they must resolutely avoid going out alone with young men for barbecues. Otherwise, they are sure to be abducted, and I am a cautionary tale.

He chuckled and said, "Xiao Mo, do you plan to wear this outfit to meet my mother?"

I wiped away a bead of sweat, truly a businessman, they really know how to flatter.

This is the first time for both Xiaohubao and me to be on a boat. The difference is that Xiaohubao can excitedly run from the bow to the stern, while I, unfortunately, feel seasick from the bow to the stern

He curled the corners of his lips, and the smile deepened slightly: "This illness, even the doctor cannot cure."

The Xiaoyao Sect has not had any joyous events for a long time. Jiang Chen and I are the earliest couple to get married among this generation of disciples, thus we have inevitably become the focus of attention. The elders and senior brothers chat idly during tea breaks and meals, and finally have a common topic to discuss. Everyone exchanges their observations and experiences, inquiring about various clues from the past, and ultimately confirms that our secret relationship has been longstanding, probably dating back to the first time Jiang Chen roasted a wild chicken for me, which unofficially set our lifelong commitment.

You will lead the young lady to the back hall and select a few of the finest garments

Where is that going?

Should we go see a doctor

I dare not look at him anymore, spending my days like years gazing at the street scene outside the carriage, yet I truly see nothing, for even without looking at him, I can feel his gaze like a large spider's web; I am likely that small insect, caught by a gust of ill wind from the little pouch, and thus I am ensnared.

Lady Qi smiled and waved her hand: "Xiao Mo, come here, let me have a good look at you"

I, speechless, silently returned to the cabin

Are you feeling unwell

Jiang Chen said: "This is the best ready-to-wear shop in the capital, where dignitaries and nobles love to come to buy and make clothes. The garments here are made from the finest materials and the best embroidery. If there is even a slight dissatisfaction or if the fit is not right, adjustments can be made until you are satisfied"

"It's hotter than you." He stared at me, let out a heavy sigh, his face slightly flushed, and his breathing a bit rapid, as if he were feeling somewhat unwell

I truly cannot feel happy. Men fear entering the wrong profession, and women fear marrying the wrong man. I am aware that with my personality, I need to find a steady and responsible man. As for Jiang Chen, I really cannot grasp his temperament. The thought of marrying him fills me with a sense of uncertainty about the future, a feeling that fortune and misfortune are hard to predict. Moreover, when I think of Yun Zhou, my heart feels even heavier.

I set aside my embarrassment and mustered the courage to say: "However, what I like is Yunzhou."

I stared at Sister Qi in a daze. How could she possibly have seen me before? Could it be that this remark implies I have a very common appearance? Or is it that someone really looks very much like me?

He chuckled softly as he poured a glass of water and handed it over to me. I lowered my head and, absentmindedly stroking my chest, reached out to take it. Inadvertently, I brushed against his finger, causing my heart to skip a beat. Flustered, I hurriedly took the cup and, upon closer inspection, realized that it was the bamboo cup I had given him.

What do you think?

It is run by my family

Having said that, he looked at me with a cheerful smile and said, "This must be the sister-in-law, who has had a hard journey."

I suppose so too

The little pouch is restless every moment, running around at the bow and stern of the boat. Inside the cabin, it is mostly just Jiang Chen and me, exchanging glances with each other. He occasionally looks at me with deep affection, his eyes sparkling like fireflies, making me feel as if my whole body is being gently roasted by little flames. Perhaps having eaten too much grilled fish, I now also experience the taste of being grilled.

He smiled and nodded slightly: "I found it."

As the night deepens and the moon rises, a question has been lodged in my heart for several days. After much contemplation, I have decided to ask my master.

Jiang Chen asked with a smile: "Shaohua, is mother at home?"

When we arrive in the capital, I will take you shopping

What a hassle, as soon as I got off the boat, I was carried in a sedan chair, and someone was pushing me hard inside; he occupied more than half of the sedan chair.

I replied awkwardly, "Oh, oh, good"

As I looked around, I was stunned

I suddenly felt a flush on my face. A single title instantly shifted me from a young girl to a married woman, which is truly unjust

This ugly daughter-in-law meeting her in-laws is undoubtedly the most awkward moment of her life. I steeled myself and stepped forward to pay my respects, my heart racing uncontrollably. She must certainly look down on me; I felt that the four maidservants behind me were all more graceful than I am

Jiang Chen led me up the steps, with the maidservants following Shaohua closely behind. I noticed that when Jiang Chen took my hand, the eyes of the four maidservants widened in astonishment and envy. Meanwhile, Shaorong naturally stood to Jiang Chen's left, tugging at his sleeve and joyfully asking him questions, seemingly oblivious to my presence, let alone glancing at me or inquiring about me. Her gaze was fixed on Jiang Chen's face the entire time, and the joy and excitement of their long-awaited reunion were truly palpable.

I have a headache. To be honest, I deliberately wore this outfit to meet his mother, as my trip to Jinling was intended to make her dislike me and thus call off the engagement. However, after hearing what he said, it would be better for me to change into another outfit first

The sedan chair came to a stop on a bustling avenue. I alighted from the chair and looked up to see an opulent storefront, with the sign displaying the four gilded characters "Yi Yi Bu She." This name is quite unique and hard to forget.

The young man laughed and said, "Aunt received a letter from cousin predicting your arrival home today, and she sent someone to wait at the door early. At this moment, Aunt is in the main hall."

Then this one will do

I waited for half a day, yet I did not hear a substantive word from Sister Gu. What is the situation, after all?

I have grown accustomed to his past expressions of jest, teasing, and defiance when he was with me, and I truly find it difficult to adapt to his current tenderness, as gentle as water, and the dreamlike beauty of the moment. I only feel a tingling sensation all over my body, and my face is burning hot. I rest my hand on my forehead, trying to shield myself from the little sparks.

The next morning, the boat docked by the Qinhuai River. After paying the fare and disembarking, the bustling street scene unfolded like a painting. The crowd was lively, the market was bustling, and the grandeur of the prosperous era was evident, with its splendid chapters and vibrant colors. The charm of the capital truly represented a remarkable sight in the world, leaving one dazzled.

The boat rowed to one side, and faintly, the sound of delicate laughter could be heard coming from the cabin, resonating clearly across the vast river surface

I was led to the back hall by Sister Gu, and this shop is truly magnificent. The back hall is divided into two sections for men and women, each attended by maids. In the women's hall, both walls are lined with ready-made garments, a riot of colors in vibrant reds and greens, and a dazzling array of purples and pinks, which instantly dazzled my eyes. Little Huo Bao exclaimed, "Oh my, goodness, mother!" a few times before burying her head among the clothes, no longer able to spare a glance at me.

Jiang Chen nodded slightly: "Gu Sao, this is the young mistress."

What is a lightship? I turned my head slightly and almost brushed against his skin. Why is he so close to me? Doesn't he feel hot? I shifted a little to the side

Jiang Chen called for two small sedan chairs by the shore. Just as I was about to share one with Xiao He Bao, he swiftly pulled me into one of the chairs. Xiao He Bao, being quite perceptive, quickly slipped into the other chair and, while lifting the curtain, said: "Young master, hold the young lady tightly, be careful not to jostle her and make her vomit again"

Husband! My ears are starting to feel warm and tingly, is it because of his breath? The night is deep, and the windows in the cabin are closed, making it somewhat stuffy at this moment. Jiang Chen is still very close to me, so I shifted a bit to the side and said: "Don't stand too close, it's hot."

Jiang Chen let out a chuckle, laughing so hard that his eyes were nearly invisible. My face burned with embarrassment, and I felt like crashing into a wall

A stir arose in my heart; usually, cousins imply a childhood friendship filled with innocence. I wonder if this cousin, Shaorong, before me is the norm or an exception

Jiang Chen squinted his eyes and chuckled maliciously, "Xiao Mo, you should finally believe my words, this outfit is absolutely necessary for you to change into."

Jiang Chen turned back and smiled at me: "This is my cousin Shaorong."

I breathed a sigh of relief: "That's good."

Sister Gu glared with her eyes: "Oh dear, tsk tsk, truly, my goodness"

I took the clothes to the inner room and first put on the pearl white one. I wore the carefree white robe of the Xiaoyao Sect for over ten years, as if I could only wear white and no other colors could be worn outside.

My face was burning hot as I awkwardly climbed into the sedan chair, taking a while to catch my breath. Just as I had managed to breathe evenly for a moment, I suddenly noticed that Jiang Chen, who was sitting beside me, had been silent and taciturn since he entered the chair.

I recalled that sudden kick in the spring light, and my face instantly flushed; I cleared my throat and pretended not to hear

He chuckled softly, putting his arm around my shoulder and said, "You will know soon."

I felt a warmth on my face and said softly, "This outfit is beautiful."

Jiang Chen stood beside me at some point, leaning close to my ear and whispering: "I didn't expect to find the lantern boats of Qinhuai here as well"

Jiang Chen said softly: "Xiao Mo, you are truly beautiful"

I awkwardly lowered my head, having stood out among a group of "monks" for over ten years

Two young gentlemen? I was momentarily taken aback, feeling quite defeated as I touched my face, and could only console myself that it was dark, and her eyesight was not very good

At night, the river surface sparkled with countless fishing lights. Not far ahead was the mouth of the Qinhuai River. The oars gently glided over the water, each stroke resonating like a plucking of heartstrings

In the hall, besides Lady Qi, there were also maids and servants standing. As soon as I walked in, dozens of eyes immediately turned towards me, their intensity comparable to Jiang Chen's torrential rain of pear blossom needles

I looked at him in bewilderment, having never seen anyone so joyful despite being ill

Jiang Chen somehow found a palm fan and began to fan me. I felt a bit embarrassed and awkwardly asked, "Are you hot too?"

Upon seeing this situation, I immediately felt a bit nervous

He smiled silently, gazing at me meaningfully for a moment before covering his face with a fan and continuing to laugh

Is this the Guiyun Villa? It is truly impressive to the point of leaving one speechless! At the entrance, there are two formidable stone lions, and surprisingly, they are adorned with bells made of pure gold around their necks

I estimate that my face at this moment should be half pale and half flushed. I leaned against the window, looking at the river surface, which was vast and empty; there wasn't much to see, just the river water as always. However, it was much better than looking at Jiang Chen's mischievous grin.

Suddenly, the sound of a pipa came from outside the cabin, melodious and enchanting in the quiet night, with a tone that was slow, distant, and somewhat melancholic. I looked out the window and saw a painted boat adorned with lanterns not far away, from which the music was drifting, slowly approaching our vessel.

After experiencing the wrath of heaven and the resentment of the people three times, when I emerged from the back room, my steps were somewhat constrained. This was due to the pearl white dress I was wearing, which had a twelve-panel skirt that was wide enough to serve as curtains or a bed canopy, while underneath it was a narrow slip that wrapped around my legs. According to Sister Gu, walking this way would allow me to move like a graceful dancer, each step blooming like a lotus. Alas, this one step felt like it was forced into two, truly a torment. I was genuinely afraid that I might not be able to hold it in, and with a loud sound, my graceful steps would turn into a flurry of movement.

I understand now why Yun Zhou was drinking in his room that day. Although he has feelings for me, he also knows that this matter will not be so easy to resolve. The question is how he will get past his father's objections. It is certain that his father disapproves, and he repeatedly misunderstands my relationship with Jiang Chen, which is why he hesitates and ultimately leaves without a word.

He let out a "Oh dear," still smiling in a way that made his nose look like it wasn't a nose and his eyes look like they weren't eyes

Unexpectedly, Jiang Chen lifted his robe and moved to sit directly opposite me. The small sparks transformed into a torrential downpour of pear blossom needles, densely and intricately covering the sky, swirling over and enveloping me completely without leaving a single drop of water to escape.

More ostentatious than the stone lions are a row of elegantly dressed maidens standing vivaciously at the foot of the grand entrance steps, led by four young ladies as beautiful as flowers, poised and eagerly awaiting.

Sister Gu selected a light green, a pearl white, and a light purple piece from a colorful array, placing them on the table, and said with a smile: "Young Madam, with your ice-like skin and snow-like complexion, these light colors will look the best on you"

Master's handsome face was faintly clouded with a sense of regret and melancholy, as if he felt helpless, as if the die had been cast. After a long pause, he sighed and said: "Xiao Mo, I truly believe that he is quite compatible with you. Do you know? On that day when I went to propose to Yunzhou, everyone thought that you were reaching beyond your means by pursuing him, but only Jiang Chen said that you are better than Yunzhou. This shows that in his heart, he regards you as a precious gem."

I curiously turned my head to take a look and found that the small sparks I usually saw in his eyes were showing signs of a fierce blaze. My heart skipped a beat, my breathing became uneven again, and I hurriedly averted my gaze.

I was so startled that I quickly stood up, feeling both embarrassed and angry, stammering: "You mustn't speak nonsense."

I was momentarily taken aback, and he had already pulled my sleeve and was leading me inside

When I came out of the inner room, Xiao Hebao exclaimed "My goodness" again, and then stared at me intently. I gasped; this girl, could it be that after spending so much time with the senior brothers, her gaze has become perverse

Sister Gu said to Jiang Chen: "Oh, young master, you are truly fortunate; the young mistress is so beautiful, and her figure is beyond words. Even if I am a woman, I cannot help but feel envious and moved."

Aunt, does Cousin like someone like this? Why do I feel like I have seen her there before?

Why do I feel that he is laughing with glee at my misfortune

It was the first time I was praised for being well-behaved and cute, which made me feel a bit embarrassed. I lowered my head, and my gaze fell on her hands. Her hands were fair and delicate, with skin as smooth as cream, incredibly soft, though her fingers were slightly cool.

I was suddenly filled with shame and embarrassment, feeling utterly out of place. I could never dare to call myself a fairy; at most, I am merely a mountain goddess. There should be some propriety in flattery, shouldn't there? In the blink of an eye, something even more outrageous happened: in front of everyone, he actually held my hand!

I felt a rush of heat on my face, and in front of everyone, I could not struggle vigorously. I secretly tried to pull my hand away, but unfortunately, it was like a meat bun thrown to a dog, never to return. When I exerted a little force, he actually clamped my hand under his armpit. I lowered my head in resignation, not daring to move recklessly, fearing that if I struggled again, he would press my hand directly against my heart or face. This person is capable of anything; shocking the world and being unruly has always been his norm.

He nodded slightly, a smile that was neither here nor there: "I am not feeling well"

She gracefully descended the steps, holding her red dress, and stood before Jiang Chen, her bright, sparkling eyes fluttering as she smiled before speaking: "Cousin, you have finally returned"

Pregnant! I was so startled that I almost brought up some sour liquid, nearly choking myself

Jiang Chen smiled and said, "Thank you, but it is not necessary."

"You are beautiful; the clothes merely enhance your appearance. The moment I saw you just now, my heart stopped beating. If you don't believe me, feel my heart; it is still pounding wildly."

I secretly worry, is this not an overt invitation for thieves? Alas, the Jiang family is indeed ostentatious, even the stone lions at the entrance are so flamboyant

Ah, I truly do not know what to say, the young lady is indeed as beautiful as a celestial being

Master, must I truly marry Jiang Chen?

However, her words seemed to go unheard, and no one responded.

Immediately, the crimson gate opened, and a young man emerged, dressed in splendid attire, with a handsome appearance, followed by several attendants behind him

Xiao Mo, every time I use it, I feel that the water in the cup is sweet. What do you think?

I only have this kind of clothing

Does he not know that I am pregnant? How dare he speak so recklessly in front of others! I was filled with shame and anger, and disregarding the presence of the boatman's wife, I exerted all my strength and pinched him hard.

I did not find the water sweet, but his words were as sweet as if they had been mixed with honey, unbearably so. Just thinking about having to hear these honeyed words from time to time in the future, and then glancing at the cup with the phrase "Wine enters the sorrowful intestines, transforming into tears of longing," instantly made my heart ache with a myriad of sorrows

Yes, indeed. A batch of materials just arrived from Hangzhou the day before yesterday. I have just finished making several new garments, which have not yet been displayed in the store. It is just right for the young lady to try on.

Upon seeing that I had recovered from my illness, my master decided that we would set off on the first day of May, which would coincide perfectly with the return to the Jiang family for the Dragon Boat Festival. He even made a special trip down the mountain to the city to purchase some gifts as a meeting present for Jiang Chen's mother. Although I felt sad inside, seeing my master with a mixture of joy and melancholy, reminiscent of a father marrying off his daughter, I could only endure my feelings in silence. However, I kept thinking about how to make Jiang's mother look down on me when we arrived at Guiyun Mountain Manor, so that this engagement could be canceled. In this way, I would not hurt Jiang Chen. I still hoped that one day, when I met Yun Zhou, I could clarify all the misunderstandings. Yet, I kept thinking about how to make Jiang's mother look down on me when we arrived at Guiyun Mountain Manor, so that this engagement could be canceled. In this way, I would not hurt Jiang Chen. I still hoped that one day, when I met Yun Zhou, I could clarify all the misunderstandings. Even if by then I had no fate with him, even if that day was unknown in which year or month.

I exclaimed: "An incurable disease?"

He asked with a smile, "Xiao Mo, why aren't you wearing that green dress"

On the first day of May, I descended the mountain with the gifts prepared by my master. To avoid the awkwardness of being alone with Jiang Chen along the way, I specifically brought along the small pouch as well.

She extended her finger, smiling as she held my hand and exclaimed: "Indeed, so well-behaved and adorable, no wonder Chen'er likes you."

He said with a smile: "I am your husband, so you need not worry about your food, clothing, and expenses."

The boatman's wife said with a smile: "On the day I found out I was pregnant, just thinking about the good deeds done by his father made me quite angry for several days."

Naturally, I will buy clothes for you first

I would like to give it a try

I gazed curiously at the painted boat, where I saw exquisite windows and beaded curtains, brilliant flower lanterns, and shadowy figures. It was truly a sight as beautiful as a dream.