Chapter 6

She wore black mesh gloves that extended to her elbows, and through the thin fabric, she adorned a diamond ring. In her right hand, she held a goblet, while on her wrist, there was a wide bracelet that, upon closer inspection, was almost identical to her own.

Nan Qin looked at Ya Yan for a long time and said, "Alright, alright, I love playing matchmaker the most. I will check on the intentions of Counselor Hong later. If he is not married, I will introduce you to him."

Call me Yinchu, as calling me brother-in-law is indeed inappropriate. He draped his coat over his wrist, recalling something, and added, Nan Jia has gone to Hong Kong, and you have no family in Yangzhou. If you do not mind, feel free to come to me for any needs in the future. As long as it is within my capabilities, I will certainly find a way to assist you.

Nan Qin did not express a clear opinion, but walked alongside him at a leisurely pace. Although they exchanged no words, she was contemplating Nan Jia in her heart, wanting to inquire about her current situation. Just as she was about to ask him, he spoke first, saying, "After such a long time, today is the first opportunity I have to talk to you. How have you been? Is Liang Yan treating you well?"

She paused for a long time, and when she moved again, she noticed someone in front of her, taking slow, measured steps. Perhaps it was a guest coming out to sober up! Around the garden, there were landscape lights set at waist height, with one every ten steps. Following the sound, she looked over and saw a familiar face emerging from behind the thin mist, refined and reserved, with a smile at the corner of his mouth; it was Yin Chu. She was slightly surprised, "You are here too!"

It seems that you have hit the nail on the head. Shouyun's face suddenly turned red, and Yayan smiled and said, "Second sister-in-law, you truly have a remarkable insight, even guessing the position correctly. Do you know that there is a new chief of staff beside second brother? It seems his surname is Hong, and he is quite a handsome and talented individual. Just now, I heard him speak, and he is certainly not an ordinary person. Just think, can second brother accommodate a mediocre person by his side? Therefore, I ask second sister-in-law to find an opportunity to speak with second brother, as facilitating a marriage is also a meritorious deed."

Yin Chuo smiled and said, "It's a bit stuffy inside, it's better outside." He was a self-disciplined person, controlling every gaze just right. Like water, he glided over her face and gently said, "Since we've met, let's take a walk together!"

Nan Qin casually responded, her thoughts not aligning with his, still lamenting their marriage, she said with infinite regret: "I never expected that you would be in such an irreconcilable conflict. I have advised Nan Jia many times, but unfortunately, she did not listen to me."

Yin nodded slightly and said, "As long as you are doing well, that is enough..." The voice gradually lowered, and after a while, he continued, "Given Liang Yan's background and personality, I used to worry that you might not be able to handle it. But looking at the situation now, everything seems to be going smoothly, so I am relieved. However, why have you been avoiding me? After all, we are relatives. Since you went abroad, we haven't been in touch often. At that time, I thought you would at least give me a call. There were a few times I went to the United States and wanted to see you, but I struggled without an address, wandering the streets for a long time, and finally had to return to the hotel."

She is accustomed to calling him brother-in-law, but upon speaking, she suddenly realizes that times have changed, and for a moment, she feels a bit awkward, "You see, I don't even know how I should address you now."

Nan Qin found it amusing, covering her mouth and giggling quietly. Ya Yan sighed, saying, "It was a mistake, it wasn't me." While speaking, she mischievously rubbed Shou Yun's chest, teasing her in a playful tone, "Oh, you're so anxious, your heart is racing, you must be in trouble!"

She is absolutely doing it on purpose, just to see how anxious Yun becomes. When the mandarin ducks make a mistake, the young lady truly becomes filled with worry, her situation both embarrassing and pitiable, almost impossible to describe in words

The palm trees in the garden rustled in the wind as she walked slowly along the path, the protruding cobblestones arching under her feet, causing some pain, yet after the pain, she felt completely refreshed. Turning back to look at the Grand Mansion, the massive structure blended into the night, shrouded in mist, with even the eaves' lights dimmed, as if it were at the other end of the world

As the music concluded, many exchanged dance partners, and the guests moved deeper into the dance floor. However, the noble lady declined the invitations of others, holding a glass of red wine, swaying gracefully towards them. Women who navigate the social scene have never adhered to restraint or propriety. They can engage in conversation with anyone and feign sincerity with all. She greeted warmly, "Hello, young madam! Oh, hello, fourth young lady..."

Is that so?" He put his hands in his pockets and let out a gentle sigh. Then, changing to a more relaxed tone, he smiled and said, "I was just about to ask you to dance, but having recently divorced Nan Jia, I need to be cautious of outside rumors. You dance quite well; did you learn abroad?

His suit had broad shoulders, making it appear empty even when she was fully inside it, giving off a sense of disarray. After a prolonged silence, the fog grew thicker, rendering it nearly impossible to see the person across from him. Nan Qin felt quite uncomfortable and ultimately returned the clothes to him, saying, "I've been out for a while, and I'm afraid Liang Yan will come looking for me. Is brother-in-law going in? The fog is too thick; don't catch a cold."

Yayan had long heard of her brother's romantic escapades, and now he was openly dancing with his rumored love interest. Wasn't this behavior crossing Nanqin's bottom line? She glanced at Nanqin, fearing that she might be upset, and indignantly accused, "Second Brother's taste is truly peculiar; even if he is just playing around, he shouldn't choose such a person!" Over there, Qingfei lazily smiled at them, swaying gracefully, and whispered something into Liangyan's ear. This was simply a demonstration, and Yayan was furious. "I know that woman's background; she was brought out by a concubine from Suzhou to learn storytelling, and somehow ended up on the big stage. Now, Qingfei is flaunting her name, which sounds impressive, but her real name is Zhou Gui. With three 'earth' characters in her name, she cannot compare to those with education; in terms of being earthy, no one can rival her."

Upon entering, she was enveloped in a mist of water on her head and body. She wiped her face with a handkerchief and looked into the hall, where many people were gathered, swirling and swaying in the dance floor. The music played by the band was soothing, and the lighting became hazy and ambiguous. She picked up a glass of juice from the tray and searched for a seat, and from a distance, she saw Yayan and Shouyun waving at her, so she hurried over and sat down on the sofa in the corner.

After being married for five or six years, to ultimately conclude that it is more suitable to be friends is indeed somewhat ironic. The cold dew was seeping in, and Nan Qin felt chilly, rubbing his arms and saying: "You must have thought this decision through carefully. If it is for the best for everyone, then there is nothing more to say. Let it be as it is!"

The initial phase of the tiger seems to be of little consequence. Such matters are futile to advise on; she is unhappy, and I feel the same pain. Rather than tormenting each other, it is better to let go, as stated in "Dream of the Red Chamber," each should seek their own path. She has her aspirations, and I do not wish to be a burden for a lifetime, so parting ways is preferable. It is just strange that in court, we can speak calmly; it truly seems that our marital bond has come to an end, and perhaps being friends is more suitable.

Nan Qin might not necessarily trouble him, after all, there is no relationship left now. However, the fact that he could say such words still brought her some comfort. She slightly nodded and said, "Thank you. I cannot comment on who is right or wrong in your matter with Nan Jia, but since you have parted ways, I hope you both live well." She tightened her shawl, unable to find the right words for farewell, and awkwardly said, "See you," before turning and walking towards the dimly lit area.

Women often use sarcasm as a means of self-relief. Nan Qin leaned back against the backrest, feeling somewhat sad inside, yet said, "It is not easy for them to make a living. Without someone like your second brother, their lives would surely be much more difficult."

It was too lively inside, with beautiful figures everywhere. She was not accustomed to the Western percussion music and wrapped herself in a shawl as she headed into the garden. Since it was night and there was fog, there were almost no people outside. This was just right, as Nan Qin preferred quietness. After traveling abroad and witnessing countless trendy scenes, she still fundamentally retained an old-fashioned demeanor. Perhaps it was a bit rustic, but she actually preferred her previous life. In the summer, she would sit in the corridor, turn on the radio, and listen to "The Tale of the Righteous Demon." At the entrance, the old maid would light the coal stove, and the smell of burning coal cakes mixed with wood shavings would spread with the wind, creating a very down-to-earth homely aroma. Now that she thought about it, even her father's loud cough felt warm and familiar.

Shou Yun, in a fit of anger, stood up and stomped her feet, saying, "Are you all mocking me? I might just turn against you!" For a moment, she paused again, her eyes fixed on the dance floor as she murmured, "How did that singer get here?"

Nan Qin said it was fine, but in fact, there is nothing good or bad for her. Although the banquets often make her uncomfortable, matters between husband and wife are not for outsiders to discuss; which family does not have a little conflict

Nan Qin's heart trembled slightly, as past events swiftly flashed through her mind, but in an instant, they dissipated without leaving any trace. She crossed her arms and said: "You are overthinking it; I am not avoiding you. It's just that as I grow older, I cannot always rely on you. Moreover, you are busy with your business, and I feel guilty for bothering you again."

We have been looking for you for quite some time, where have you been

Nan Qin remembered that Shou Yun had mentioned it before, and she glanced over with caution, instantly feeling as if a bucket of ice water had been poured over her, leaving her chilled from head to toe

Nan Qin let out a sound, "I drank too much and feel a bit tipsy, so I went for a walk outside. What do you need me for? Have you taken a liking to some young master and want me to be your advisor?"

The bride has left, yet the banquet continues from the afternoon until deep into the night. Nan Qin has had a bit to drink, feeling warm all over. Among the many friends from various walks of life at the grand feast, they are too busy to pay her any mind. She steps away, standing alone at the end of the corridor to cool off. The coastal area is humid, and at this moment, fog begins to rise. The fog is flowing, in waves, like a light veil brushing against her face

"What is that singing?" Nan Qingshun followed her gaze and saw the striking military uniform of Liang Yan, while the woman dancing with him wore a backless evening gown, her bare skin more than a little provocative. She paused for a moment, "Isn't that Miss Qingfei from the grand stage?"

Yin Chuo nodded, "Indeed, there is nothing much to say, but if she needs help in the future, I will do my utmost to assist her. After all, we were once a couple, and there is still some affection between us." Seeing her shrink back without saying a word, he took off his coat and draped it over her. She hurriedly declined, but he exerted a bit of force with his hand, "Don't be so distant; although I have divorced Nan Jia, I still regard you as a little sister."