Delicate Flower – Chapter 316

Chapter 316 Receiving Guests


Time in the mountains passed quickly and with Pei Yan constantly appearing in her thoughts, the Ghost Festival soon arrived before she knew it.

Grand Madam Pei and Chen Daniang were preparing for the usual ancestral worship.

The abbot of the Sanqing Temple, located in the western suburbs of Lin’an City, Esteemed Master Qingyuan, personally came to invite Grand Madam Pei to attend their temple’s “Ghost Festival Ritual.”

Grand Madam Pei readily agreed and gently explained to Yu Tang, “The Pei family has many officials serving in Lin’an City, so people naturally look to us for guidance. We must be careful in our words and actions. We have to participate in the temple’s incense offering and the Taoist rituals.” She then asked, “Have you been to Sanqing Temple? Their vegetarian dishes are even better than those at Zhaoming Temple. Why don’t you come along with me this time and see for yourself?”

Yu Tang received a lot of guidance from Grand Madam Pei during this time, thus she naturally smiled and agreed.

Pei Yan clearly preferred visiting Taoist temples. Not only did he encourage Yu Tang to try the vegetarian food at Sanqing Temple but also urged her to stay overnight. “They have several epiphyllum plants (tl: orchid cactus) there, and they are in bloom. Let’s go and see if we are lucky enough to see the blossoms.”

Although his words were phrased as such, he had already arranged for an attendant to go ahead to Sanqing Temple with instructions to find a way to have them see the epiphyllum plants in bloom.

Yu Tang visited various greenhouses with Pei Yan during her leisure time and garnered some insight of some rare flowers of various regions. Hearing this, she smiled and asked, “Is it a Qiong Flower? The white flower that blooms in Qiongzhou?”

Pei Yan smiled and said, “It’s different from the Qiong flower. Epiphyllum blooms are much rarer than Qiong flowers.”

He then took a piece of paper and drew the Qiong flower and epiphyllum, explaining the difference between the two.

As the two were chatting happily, Ah-Ming ran in excitedly, calling out “Third Master” with a joyful cry, “Master Zhao and the others are back!”

Zhao Zhen went to the capital with Pei Qi and the others, and now they were back.

Yu Tang was delighted. At least Pei Yan now had trusted people serving beside him.

She looked at Pei Yan.

Pei Yan seemed pleased as well. He smiled and instructed, “Let them in quickly!”

Ah-Ming happily left.

Yu Tang was about to leave, but Pei Yan stopped her, saying, “They’re not outsiders, you should get to know them.”

This meant he considered her one of his closest people too!

Yu Tang blushed slightly, but tried her best to remain poised, standing there with Pei Yan, waiting for Zhao Zhen and the others.

A short while later, Zhao Zhen and Pei Qi walked in, looking travel-weary.

Seeing Yu Tang there, both of them were surprised, but quickly composed themselves and bowed to Pei Yan.

Pei Yan didn’t hide anything from Yu Tang, saying directly, “You must have had a long journey. If there aren’t any urgent matters, you can go and change your clothes, freshen up and rest up before telling me about your trip to the capital.”

Zhao Zhen remained silent.

Pei Qi said, “Eldest Master Zhang had Pei Wu and Mr. Shu stay in the capital and instructed us to return first.” He took two letters from his side and handed them to Pei Yan, continuing, “These are letters from Eldest Master Zhang and Mr. Shu to you. Eldest Master Zhang said that you should head to the capital as soon as you are done with your mourning period. Imperial Scholar Zhou is waiting for you there.”

Pei Yan didn’t rush to read the letters but instead asked, “How are things with the Zhang family?”

Pei Qi replied, “We only followed the instructions of Imperial Scholar Zhou, only helping the Zhang family with some menial tasks. Mr. Shu is helping with the accounting and gifts.”

Pei Yan nodded, Pei Qi and Zhao Zhen both took their leave.

Pei Yan sat down in the armchair behind his desk and began to read the letters.

Yu Tang felt uncomfortable being there.

Pei Yan smiled and said, “Is there anything of mine that needs to be kept from you?”

Yu Tang blushed but felt a sweet warmth in her heart.

She personally poured tea for Pei Yan.

Pei Yan skimmed through the two letters and picked out the most important details and explained to Yu Tang, “The Zhang family’s affairs have far-reaching consequences. My mentor is reshuffling things in court and probably wants Brother Zijin to enter officialdom. Zijin is used to a carefree life, so he must be feeling very depressed. My mentor knows it’s a bit of a stretch for him to handle everything and thus wants me to help him. As for Shu Qing(ie. Mr Shu), he explained to me in detail the whole story of Tao An’s takeover of Jiangxi. There are some people I need to thank, and some I need to remember to repay. It’s also a way for him to explain the situation and actions required. He’s staying there because Brother Zijin is temporarily left without anyone to rely on, so he’s helping out as his retinue for a while.”

However, Pei Yan didn’t mention whether he would go to the capital.

Pei Yan pondered for a while and said, “Second Brother is more suitable for that position than me.”

However, Zhang Ying didn’t trust Pei Xuan as much as Pei Yan.

Pei Yan shrugged, “There’s nothing I can do about it. Now that I’m in charge of the Pei family, the Pei family must be my priority.”

Yu Tang asked worriedly, “Won’t it be more troublesome for Second Master to be reinstated without your mentor, Minister Zhang’s support?”

Pei Yan smiled slightly and replied, “My second brother also has his own mentor and connections, but he’s a low-key person with a head-strong eldest brother and a willful youngest brother, so he usually tolerates things quietly.”

In other words, even without Zhang Ying’s support, Pei Xuan was capable of reinstating himself in officialdom.

Yu Tang skeptically asked, “If Minister Zhang were to help, wouldn’t it be easier?”

“Not necessarily!” Pei Yan explained, “The current situation in the court is very complex. Sometimes, being close to a powerful figure like my mentor, who have mentees all over the country, isn’t necessarily a good thing. On the contrary, someone like my second brother’s mentor, who serves honestly as the head of the Hanlin Academy, might be just as powerful as my mentor in helping my second brother.”

As long as the Pei family doesn’t end up choosing the wrong side, that would be fine.

Yu Tang could only remind Pei Yan, “The Second Prince is the eldest, after all. It’s best to avoid getting involved in the Third Prince’s affairs.”

Pei Yan then recalled Yu Tang’s dream and connected it to Eleventh Peng.

He asked curiously, “I wonder what he wants those Gao siblings for? That manager surnamed Gao resigned from his job and went to Datong. What does he need a manager for?”

Datong has a thriving market.

Besides the horse trade, there’s also the fur trade. But neither Fujian nor Guangdong were the main trading centers for horses and furs.

Yu Tang hesitated, “Could the Peng family be trying to get involved in other businesses?”

Pei Yan didn’t underestimate them but also didn’t take them too seriously, saying, “I’ll have someone keep an eye on them for a while longer. Things will work out eventually.”

Yu Tang tried hard to recall her past life, but couldn’t find any clues.

On the day of the Ghost Festival, she went home to pay respects to her ancestors and then accompanied Grand Madam Pei to Sanqing Temple.

During the day, they listened to the Taoist priests recite the Scripture for the Recitations of Merit for the Morning and Evening Altar, and at night they recited the Iron Pot Food Offering/Iron Censer Ritual. They stayed overnight at the Sanqing Temple.

In the middle of the night, Qingyuan woke her up, and Yu Tang and Pei Yan went to see the epiphyllums at Sanqing Temple. (tl: It blooms nocturnally, and flowers wilt before dawn)

Indeed, it was different from the Qiong Flowers (Viburnum).

The Qiong Flower had large flowers, as large as plates, with a ring of smaller flowers in the middle, like tiny, scattered dots at the center. Epiphyllum, however, had only one flower, about the size of a bowl, pure white like jade, somewhat resembling a water lily.

Perhaps having seen Pei Yan’s water lilies, Yu Tang wasn’t as amazed by them but still fund them very beautiful.

Pei Yan asked her, “Would you like to take a couple home to grow?”

“No need!” Yu Tang shook her head. She preferred Pei Yan’s water lilies. The flowers bloom out of the water and two lively goldfishes swam beneath them, a perfect balance of movement and stillness, giving off a vibrant and lively feeling.

“How about growing two pots of Qiong Flowers (Viburnum)?” Pei Yan asked her as they walked side by side out of the flowerbed where epiphyllum was kept.

Qiong Flowers (Viburnum) was relatively easy to grow, and Yu Tang thought it was good.

Pei Yan then discussed with her what to plant for the greenhouse this year. “We definitely need to grow more plum blossoms, and also kumquats and (Buddha’s hand) citrons. They’ll be useful for offerings during the Spring Festival.”

Wasn’t that thinking a bit too far?

Pei Yan disagreed with her, saying, “This is our first year of marriage. We’ll likely be hosting guests for the Spring Festival. There would definitely be numerous guests, so how can we not decorate the house beautifully?”

The two chatted and laughed as they strolled around Sanqing Temple before returning to their rooms.

Unexpectedly, the next morning, when she woke up, the Yu family sent Ah-Tiao to pick her up, saying, “There’s something important. You can return to the mountains to accompany Grand Madam Pei after a few days.”

Not only Pei Yan, but even Grand Madam Pei was taken aback and personally summoned Ah-Tiao for a reason.

Ah-Tiao didn’t know either, only saying that Yu Wen suddenly arranged it last night, and that he was still waiting for Yu Tang to return home.

Grand Madam Pei’s first thought was that there might be something wrong with Madam Chen’s health.

If anything happened to Madam Chen, and Yu Tang had to observe three years of mourning, what would happen to the marriage agreed between the two families?

She immediately called Chen Daniang. “Accompany Lady Yu back. Report to me immediately if there’s anything. Don’t let the Yu family make decisions on their own.”

Grand Madam Pei’s biggest fear now was that the Yu family wouldn’t be able to find a good phyiscian.

Chen Daniang was Grand Madam Pei’s confidante and knew what Grand Madam Pei was worried about, so she immediately said, “I’ll take a few servants along with me.”

It would be good to have someone report back if something happened.

Grand Madam Pei nodded and said, “Take Hu Xing with you too. He’s familiar with Imperial Physician Yang and Imperial Physician Wang.”

These were the only two decent imperial physicians in Hangzhou.

Chen Daniang agreed. She sent someone to inform Hu Xing while she went to Yu Tang’s place, instructing the maids and servants to pack the things. She reassured Yu Tang, “It’s just for a couple of days. If you can’t return to the mountains right away, I’ll send someone to bring back the rest. You don’t need to take much back right now.”

This would save them time, allowing them to leave sooner.

Yu Tang was also a little anxious. Heeding Chen Daniang’s advice, she took minimal belongings with her and left.

She found Pei Yan at the gate.

He stood beside the carriage with his horse, and said reassuringly, “Don’t worry, I’ll go back with you. I’ve also sent guards ahead of us, so we’ll know the situation soon enough.”

Yu Tang felt relieved and was helped onto the carriage by Pei Yan himself.

Chen Daniang sighed.

This marriage was worrying.

She prayed that nothing bad happened to the Yu family, otherwise, Grand Madam Pei would be so disappointed!

Just as Pei Yan said, they met up with the guards sent by the Pei family at the city gate of Lin’an. The guards said, “Third Master, Master Yu didn’t say what it was about, but he did say it was good news. He told you and young Miss not to rush and to take your time.”

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but complain inwardly. He told her to quickly return without explaining a thing, and she’d been on pins and needles the whole time!

When they returned to the Yu family home, they learned that Jiang Chao returned, bringing a shipload full of spices, gold, and jewels.

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 315

Chapter 315 Overlap

Pei Yan wasn’t one to sit idly and take a beating lying down.

He was already being magnanimous by not finding fault with others.

Upon hearing this, he immediately raised an eyebrow, intending to say something like, “I was just looking for an excuse to stir up some trouble for Eleventh Peng. Now that he’s delivered himself to me, how could I pretend not to see him?” But when he turned his head, he noticed Yu Tang’s face was somewhat pale.

He hesitated for a moment.

There would be many opportunities to deal with Eleventh Peng, but insisting now would only worry Yu Tang… it seemed like a bad trade-off!

Pei Yan immediately changed his mind.

He smiled and said instead, “Since you say so, I’ll let him off this time. But if he’s so tactless as to provoke you again, you can’t be soft-hearted.”

Yu Tang nodded vigorously, feeling that in this life there weren’t any grudges like in her past life, and her parents and brother were still alive. Even if Eleventh Peng wanted to harm her, it wouldn’t be as easy as it had been in her past life.

Pei Yan, however, was reluctant to let Yu Tang out of his sight and lost interest in visiting Tiaoxi Hall. He asked Yu Tang, “How about I take you to keep Mother company?” He added, “There are a lot of people there, but there are advantages to being in a group. Most of the Pei family’s bodyguards are also stationed there, so even if Eleventh Peng wanted to do something, he wouldn’t have a good opportunity.”

He seemed to be entrusting her to his mother.

Yu Tang, fearing he would go to find Eleventh Peng, said anxiously, “How about you come with me to watch the dragon boat races with Grand Madam? Everyone of some influence in Lin’an would go and greet Grand Madam. With so many people, I’ll feel a little uncomfortable too.”

Why didn’t she seem uncomfortable before? Was she afraid that if he went to see Eleventh Peng, he would encounter danger?

Pei Yan was touched by Yu Tang’s concern and replied, “I need to investigate why he’s in Lin’an. The Peng family shouldn’t have any business here and the court hasn’t discussed abolishing the Quanzhou Maritime Trade Office. I really can’t understand what he’s here for.”

If it were her, she would be uneasy too, wouldn’t she?

Yu Tang didn’t stop Pei Yan, but gently cautioned him, “Then you must be cautious. He’s like an earthenware pot and you’re a beautiful piece of jade. It’s not worth going head-to-head with someone like him.”

Pei Yan nodded and left Ah-Ming to serve Yu Tang.

Yu Tang was reluctant to see him leave, whispering, “You, you mustn’t make me worry.”

Her gentle admonition, soft and melodious, was filled with indescribable tenderness and affection.

Pei Yan was stunned for a moment, then felt as if he had drunk a cup of warm honey water, quenching his thirst —sweetness that filled his heart, but not overly sweet like white sugar.

He couldn’t help but smile, and softly answered, “Okay.” He waved Qingyuan over and said, “I’ll accompany you to see Grand Madam Pei first.”

Qingyuan didn’t dare to delay. She quickly boarded the carriage and instructed the female servants accompanying them to follow along.

The group went along the bustling street. Because it was the Pei family’s carriage and Pei Yan was walking along beside it, passersby assumed it was Grand Madam Pei’s carriage and readily made way for them. They soon arrived at the viewing platform beside the Tiaoxi River.

Grand Madam Pei was highly respected in Lin’an. After watching the dragon boat races begin, as the sun rose higher, she came down from the viewing platform and rested in a makeshift tent behind it. Several elders of the Pei family kept her company, telling jokes and tried to keep her spirits up.

When Chen Daniang came to report that Pei Yan brought Yu Tang over, Grand Madam Pei was quite surprised. She suppressed her confusion and quietly asked Chen Daniang, “What happened?”

“I don’t know!” Chen Daniang whispered. “He only said he had some business to attend to and asked you to bring Lady Yu back to the manor later. He’ll personally talk to the Yu family about this. He also told Lady Yu to stay at your residence tonight, saying he’ll explain everything to you when he returns.”

The Pei family was quite powerful in Lin’an City. Grand Madam Pei guessed that the two met privately and were discovered by the Yu family. She smiled and said, “Tell him not to worry, I’ll definitely keep an eye on her. Make sure that he comes back soon and explain to me.”

Chen Daniang smiled, gave a curtsy, and went to invite Yu Tang in.

Only a few people had the privilege of accompanying Grand Madam Pei. Although Yu Tang wasn’t very familiar with them, she met them a few times. After everyone exchanged greetings, Grand Madam Pei, in order to silence the gossip, said to Yu Tang, “I’ve sent messengers to invite you here several times, and you finally came. Today, come with me to the Pei residence and help me copy a few pages of the Buddhist scriptures.”

Yu Tang naturally wouldn’t refuse, and smilingly agreed, sending Shuang Tao away to inform Madam Chen.

The Pei young ladies found her presence delightful as they chatted and laughed, making the atmosphere quite lively.

As the sun began to set and the last two teams were vying for the dragon boat prize, Yu Tang, at Grand Madam Pei’s behest, helped her to the viewing platform.

The newly appointed magistrate, surnamed Wu, hadn’t brought any female relatives with him. He came to greet Grand Madam Pei, and while waiting for Pei Yan to arrive, the drums and gongs began to sound. The two winning teams competed and received their rewards in silver, and he gave a long speech addressing the people before the crowd dispersed.

Pei Yan was to have dinner with magistrate Wu, while Yu Tang was taken back to the Pei residence by Grand Madam Pei. However, even after she bid farewell to the Pei young ladies, washed up, and rested in Grand Madam Pei’s side courtyard, Pei Yan still didn’t arrive.

She tossed and turned in her bed, unable to sleep well.

The next morning, she forced herself to be cheerful as she greeted Grand Madam Pei, only to find Pei Yan had arrived sometime earlier and was having tea with his mother.

Upon seeing Yu Tang, Pei Yan smiled, greeted her, and then instructed the maidservant beside Grand Madam Pei to serve breakfast.

Yu Tang was unable to ask any questions as she silently ate breakfast with Pei Yan and Grand Madam Pei. Only after sending Grand Madam Pei to the small Buddhist side-hall to for the chanting of sutras did she have a chance to speak privately with Pei Yan.

“Have you found out what Eleventh Peng is doing in Lin’an?” she asked anxiously. “Did you confront him? Did he come alone or with a group?”

She seemed afraid he was harmed in some way.

Pei Yan nodded inwardly, satisfied with her response, but his expression remained impassive. He said, “I went directly to ask him. He told me a friend asked him to deliver a letter home. I didn’t say much to him; he probably knows my attitude towards him, so he didn’t hide either. He went to a family surnamed Gao in Banqiao Town, sat for less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea and then left. I looked into it afterward. That Gao family has an adopted son who works as a shop assistant outside. He’s a clever chap and was promoted to head manager at the beginning of this year and sent a letter asking his family to go to Nanchang for a while…”

Banqiao Town, surnamed Gao!

That must be her sister-in-law from her past life.

Yu Tang felt uneasy thinking about what happened in her past life.

Pei Yan thought she was worried about Eleventh Peng and reassured her, “He’s already left Lin’an City…”

But before he could finish his sentence, Ah-Ming come in and whispered a few words in his ear.

Pei Yan’s expression changed.

Yu Tang’s heart tightened, and she hurriedly asked, “What happened?”

Pei Yan glanced at Yu Tang, remained silent for a moment, and then said, “Eleventh Peng went to see the Qu brothers, who helped you previously.”

Yu Tang frowned.

The Qu brothers previously tried to seek a home with Lady Xu, but Lady Xu politely declined, so she hadn’t paid any further attention. Why was Eleventh Peng looking for them?

Did he want to have a spy in Lin’an?

He knew Pei Yan was wary of him so he shouldn’t be that foolish.

Pei Yan understood the power and effectiveness of being direct better than she did. He didn’t have time to deal with people like the Qu brothers. Seeing Yu Tang’s unease, he added, “Water flows downhill and it’s natural for people to strive for higher positions. Don’t overthink it. Just have someone call the Qu brothers over to ask them what they want. As for you, I’ve sent someone to speak with the future Minister Yue Shan. Eleventh Peng came to Lin’an City and I’m worried he might cause trouble. You won’t be going back today, just stay with my mother in the other courtyard. The future Minister Yue Shan has already agreed. I’ll have Shuang Tao go back and pack some things for you to take up the mountain.”

It would be best if she didn’t take anything, so he’d have an excuse to order more clothes and jewelry for Yu Tang.

Yu Tang still had some concerns about Eleventh Peng contacting the Qu brothers.

Could it be that the Qu brothers were working for Eleventh Peng in her past life?

Then wouldn’t Eleventh Peng and Li Duan know of some of her actions too?

Yu Tang’s head ached just thinking about it. She stopped thinking about these things, packed her stuff and prepared to go up the mountain with Grand Madam Pei. Pei Yan came and told her that Eleventh Peng went to see the Qu brothers to try and win them over to his side.

Yu Tang asked worriedly, “Then, what should we do about this?”

“We’ll cut off the roots,” Pei Yan remarked casually. “I asked the Qu brothers if they were willing to work for me. They agreed.”

Once Yu Tang married into the family, he would arrange for the Qu brothers to serve her, so she would have people to rely on.

That was a good idea.

Yu Tang asked, “What if Eleventh Peng finds out? Won’t he continue to pester the Qu brothers to work for him?”

In her mind, only family servants, where their families’ fortunes were tied to the Pei family’s fate, would think things carefully and wouldn’t betray them easily. People like the Qu brothers, who already had quite a ruthless nature, might not be willing to serve the Pei family wholeheartedly.

Pei Yan chuckled and said, “Following me is better than following the Xu family, isn’t it?”

The Xu family lived in the capital; if they wanted to serve the Xu family, they would have to leave their hometown. “Besides, I promised those brothers managerial positions,” Pei Yan remarked casually. “I’ve already shown them respect, what else could they be unhappy about?”

Yu Tang thought about it and realized it was true, just as Pei Yan said. Countless people in Lin’an City wanted to pledge their allegiance to the Pei family and work for them!

So, this matter was considered as settled, right?

Yu Tang cast the matter aside and dutifully accompanied Grand Madam Pei and the other Pei ladies up the mountain. Within a few days, the Pei relatives began to visit Grand Madam Pei and they stayed at the villa for a couple of days.

The mountain villa quickly became bustling with activity.

Pei Yan, however, didn’t let Eleventh Peng off the hook.

After Eleventh Peng met with the Gao family, they sent their daughter to Jiangxi, saying that it would be easier for her to marry into a good family if she stayed with her brother. In addition to contacting the Qu brothers, Eleventh Peng also contacted several other hired help. Some went with him to Fujian, while others stayed behind. As for the situation in the capital, the struggle for the position of Governor of Jiangxi concluded. Tao An, with the help of many officials, overcame all odds and was promoted to Governor of Jiangxi. Peng Yu, however, was suppressed by Zhang Ying and several other veteran officials and could not be promoted. He would probably have to stay in the Censorate for several more years. As for the Li family, Li Yi’s case was also resolved. Li Yi was sentenced to exile in the Northwest, but the Li family did not give up. They wanted to continue to appeal. Thus, they borrowed money from the Lin family. The Lin family verbally agreed to it but has yet to send the money. If this matter failed, Li Yi’s exile would be a foregone conclusion.

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 314

Chapter 314 Dragon Boat Festival

Daughters from families like the Yu’s typically marry into similarly respectable and locally known craftsman families, continuing their line of work within that circle. Very few manage to escape it.

The girl was overjoyed when Pei Yan asked her this.

If she could gain the favor of the Pei family, even if she married another craftsman family, she could find a way to work for the Pei family or perhaps use their connections to open her own shop. At the very least, she could have some say in the shop, and her life would be much better.

“My name is Lan Hua,” the girl answered, pulling her somewhat taciturn older sister to stand beside her, “This is my sister, her name is Mei Hua.”

Pei Yan nodded, saying nothing more. He summoned the Yu family’s pattern maker and inquired about pattern making.

The pattern maker, in his thirties, was hired by the Yu family from Jiangxi. Short and stocky, he appeared timid, but when it came to pattern making, his eyes shone with confidence. It was clear he was very confident in his skills. “We made the patterns based on the paintings the young master brought. However, carved lacquer is different from other lacquerware techniques; yin is yang, and yang is yin and requires carving layer by layer.”

In other words, the person creating the pattern wasn’t important; the master’s skill in carving was.

Pei Yan asked him, “So, how long do you think it will take you to make a thousand boxes?”

The master craftsman replied quite cautiously, “If I were to do it alone, it would take about four or five months. However, after summer passes, when it becomes chilly, the lacquer won’t dry as quickly as it does now. Four or five months would be considered good. If I bring my apprentice, we can save about a month.”

Pei Yan wanted to watch him make a piece of lacquerware.

He hesitated.

Pei Yan sneered, “Even your shop young proprietor isn’t afraid, what are you so afraid of?”

The master craftsman was quick-witted and hurriedly answered, “Some people just can’t handle the lacquer process. Just the smell would make their faces swell. I’m afraid that if you feel unwell, I’ll be held responsible and I wouldn’t be able to handle that.”

Pei Yan stood up, his expression stern. “Lead the way.”

The master craftsman dared not say another word and quickly led the way.

Pei Yan grabbed Yu Tang, who was about to follow him, saying, “You stay here and help me crack some lotus seeds and chill them in the ice. They’ll be delicious when I get back.”

Yu Tang’s eyes lit up. She found his two-faced words amusing. Her eyes crinkled with laughter as she replied, “I grew up in a lacquerware shop. If I couldn’t handle lacquer, I wouldn’t be here. Don’t worry. But you, please be careful. If you’re not feeling well, don’t try to put on a brave front.”

Pei Yan nodded, thought for a moment, and then asked Yu Yuan to find Yu Tang a handkerchief to cover her nose. “The smell is really terrible, so you should take precautions.”

Yu Tang knew Pei Yan meant well and obediently covered her nose with the handkerchief before going with him to the workshop in the back.

Yu Yuan watched Pei Yan and Yu Tang, his eyes forming crescents and he grinned.

The master craftsman then demonstrated the process of carving red lacquer to Pei Yan.

Pei Yan said nothing. He left the workshop with Yu Tang and offered to take Yu Tang home. “I’ll think about this more and let you know when I’ve made my decision. There’s a dragon boat race at Tiaoxi Hall tomorrow, so everyone should sleep early and get enough rest to have energy for the next day.”

Yu Yuan only wanted Yu Tang to give him some advice and didn’t expect her to come to the workshop personally. Hearing Pei Yan’s words, he naturally agreed and urged Yu Tang to head home quickly.

Yu Tang trusted Pei Yan. Since he said he didn’t have a good idea right now, she set this matter aside, thinking that with Pei Yan’s intelligence, he would definitely come up with a good solution. Therefore, she didn’t insist and left the shop with Pei Yan leaving through the back door.

Pei Yan then discussed with her, “I think the two young maids who poured tea for us today are quite nice. If they’re willing, you can take them with you. They’re a better choice than buying servants from outside—their fathers and brothers all work for your family. If they serve you, their family probably won’t return to Jiangxi.”

Yu Tang already guessed his plans when Pei Yan asked for the maids’ names, and now that he’d mentioned it, she was even more certain. She smiled and said, “I’ll go back and ask.”

Pei Yan gave a satisfied “Mm,” and accompanied Yu Tang towards Qingzhu Lane.

However, when they reached the intersection, they found a large crowd gathered in front of an inn.

Shuang Tao glanced at the situation a few more times and explained to Yu Tang, “Young Miss, some people visiting relatives from out of town were kicked out of the inn.”

Most of the inns in Lin’an were owned by the Pei family.

Pei Yan frowned upon hearing this and instructed Ah-Ming, “Go and take a look.”

Ah-Ming ran over.

Yu Tang was somewhat worried.

She feared damage to the Pei family’s reputation.

“Why don’t we wait here a while?” Yu Tang said. “I’m not in a hurry to return.”

If Pei Yan personally intervened to appease them, regardless of whose fault it was, the matter would quickly subside.

Pei Yan hesitated, but Yu Tang decisively added, “It’s just a small matter anyway, so we shouldn’t let it escalate. Why don’t you go and check it out? I’ll wait for you here.”

He just wanted to spend more time with Yu Tang. After a moment’s thought, he had someone stand guard in front of Yu Tang’s carriage and went to the inn himself.

Yu Tang listened intently.

A short while later, the commotion from the inn quietened. After waiting for a short while, Pei Yan returned and said, “They’re from Shandong, heading to Fujian to visit relatives. They took the wrong road and ended up in Lin’an. Their mother is ill, suffering from tuberculosis. The innkeeper told them to stay at one of the Pei family’s estates outside the city for a few days, but the family was afraid that they were being kicked out and refused to leave, so they started making a scene at the inn’s entrance. I had someone take them to the estate.”

Pei Yan wasn’t a heartless person. Since he took them to the estate, he would definitely try to help the mother get treatment.

Yu Tang set this matter aside and went home to check on her clothes and jewelry, in preparation for her private trip to Tiaoxi Hall with Pei Yan the next day.

Fortunately, Madam Chen was always ill, and although she improved somewhat in the past two years, Yu Wen rarely let her go outside alone, especially not during such hot weather like the Dragon Boat Festival. This year, Yu Wen and Master Wu secured reservations early and got a private room at a restaurant by the Tiaoxi River. They planned to take Madam Chen along for a stroll. Madam Chen was also busy preparing her clothes and didn’t pay much attention to Yu Tang. When they arrived at the restaurant, they bumped into the Wei family, and everyone chatted and laughed, creating a lively atmosphere. So much so that when Yu Tang slipped away, only Wei Xiaochuan noticed and even followed after her.

“Why are you following me?” Yu Tang, who was standing on tiptoes, noticed that Pei Yan disappeared from the viewing platform. Fearing he would be waiting for her in the scorching sun, she anxiously shooed Wei Xiaochuan, “I made plans to go out with friends, don’t be a tattletale!”

“How could I!” Wei Xiaochuan’s eyes darted around, looking utterly innocent. “I want to go too, sister, take me with you!”

However, Yu Tang was more clever than him. She called over several of the Wu family’s youngest cousins, all under ten years old, gave them a handful of coins, and smilingly instructed them, “If you want to buy snacks later, have this brother run errands for you.”

Immediately, one of the Wu family’s cousins ​​clung to Wei Xiaochuan’s leg, clamoring for melon seeds.

Wei Xiaochuan’s face flushed over with anger. “Aren’t there any melon seeds in the private rooms? Why do we have to buy them outside?” he asked.

His young female cousin answered defiantly, “The melon seeds in the private rooms are the same as at home. Outside, they have sugar-coated melon seeds, and we want the sugar-coated ones!” She even threatened Wei Xiaochuan, “If you don’t buy them for us, we’ll go tell Mrs. Wei that you ignored us.”

Wei Xiaochuan stamped his foot and wanted to look for Yu Tang, but she was nowhere to be found. All he could see was the large crowd.

He prodded the little girl’s forehead and said, “If something happens to Sister Yu, how will you explain?”

The little girl had a round face and snow-white skin, like a child in a New Year’s painting. She snorted and said, “No way! Sister Yu has Sanmu and Shuangtao with her, she won’t get lost!”

Wei Xiaochuan could only crane his neck to look around, wondering who Yu Tang went to find.

It took Yu Tang a while to squeeze through the crowd and reach the large tree where she arranged to meet Pei Yan.

Qing Yuan was already waiting there.

Seeing Yu Tang, she breathed a sigh of relief and hurried forward, inviting her into a carriage. She added, “Third Master said that with so many people around, there’s bound to be gossip, and we might encounter some nefarious groups. It’s safer to ride in a carriage.”

After all, there would be fewer people watching.

Yu Tang had no objections and got into the carriage.

However, as the carriage inched along the crowd, she was covered in a light sheen of sweat. Qing Yuan helped her wipe it away and opened the window for some fresh air. Just then, she glanced up and inadvertently saw a carriage pass by them.

Yu Tang’s heart pounded, and she felt a little breathless.

She grabbed Qingyuan’s hand, urgently saying, “Quickly send someone to check! It looks like the eleventh master Peng is in that carriage we just passed.”

Qingyuan heard that Eleventh Peng frightened Yu Tang so much so that she fainted at the sermons at Zhaoming Temple.

She rushed to inform Pei Yan.

Pei Yan, however, felt that Eleventh Peng might harm Yu Tang.

His expression tightened, and he rode over immediately.

Fortunately, everyone was watching the dragon boat races, and Pei Yan’s horse galloped smoothly over, meeting with Yu Tang in the short time it took to drink a cup of tea.

“Did you see clearly?” Before she could even bask in the joy of seeing him, worry overcame her. Pei Yan asked gravely, “Was it Eleventh Peng?”

“It looked like him!” But a quick glance wasn’t enough for Yu Tang to be certain. She said, “Is the Li family’s case still ongoing?”

If it really was him, what was he doing here?

Pei Yan didn’t think much of it. He immediately ordered his servants to follow, then said to Yu Tang, “Don’t worry about this. I’ll figure it out.” He then realized Yu Tang was in too much danger.

What if Eleventh Peng was after Yu Tang, just like she had dreamt?

Pei Yan immediately said, “Ah-Tang, I’ll take you to Tiaoxi Hall another time. Go to my mother’s side. She has many people around her, and with my mother’s people protecting you, you’ll be fine. I’ll try to meet Eleventh Peng now.”

Yu Tang knew her own situation. She felt she wouldn’t be in any real danger in this life, so she wasn’t feeling particularly worried. However, seeing that Pei Yan was going to meet Eleventh Peng, and knowing Zhao Zhen and the others weren’t in Lin’an, she felt a little anxious. She grabbed Pei Yan’s sleeve, trying to stop him from leaving: “Let’s wait and see. If he doesn’t come looking for us, we won’t go looking for him.”

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 313

Chapter 313 Fanning

When Qingyuan entered with the chilled mung bean soup, she almost laughed at the scene before her—Pei Yan was bent over painting, Yu Tang was fanning him with a Sichuan fan, and behind Yu Tang, two servants were fanning them both.

Was Third Master deliberately making things difficult for Lady Yu?

Qingyuan didn’t dare say a thing. She offered them the mung bean soup and quietly withdrew.

Yu Tang sat slumped in the armchair, rubbing her wrist.

Pei Yan looked at her disdainfully and grumbled, “How come you can’t even fan properly?”

Yu Tang retorted without missing a beat, “How about we switch?”

Pei Yan glanced at the half-finished pomegranate flower painting, raised an eyebrow, and returned Yu Tang’s words verbatim. “How about we switch?”

Yu Tang wasn’t afraid of him at all, and rolled up her sleeves, saying, “Sure, let’s switch!”

Who’s afraid of who?

In the end, she couldn’t finish the painting, and it was Pei Yan who came to the rescue.

This idiot, thinking she could stumble him!

Pei Yan was genuinely afraid she’d ruin his half-finished painting, so he quickly stopped her. “Alright, alright, stop fooling around. You don’t need to fan me anymore, just stand over there and hand me the brushes.” He added exasperatingly, “What can you actually help with?”

Was this her fault?

Yu Tang sat in her chair, unwilling to move, and said petulantly, “I need to rest!”

Pei Yan actually didn’t want her to do anything. However, he felt that since he was working so hard on behalf of the Yu family, Yu Tang should at the very least, keep him company. He didn’t force her to do anything anymore, as long as she stayed in the study with him. He quickly finished two paintings, one of pomegranates and the other of peonies, saying, “Both are fine. Make a few samples for the Hu family to choose from. They started out making Xuan paper, and besides Jiangsu and Zhejiang, they have branches in Hunan, Hubei, Guangdong, Shanxi, and even in the capital. Their business is huge. If your family can secure this order, you won’t have to worry about business in future.”

Yu Tang ate some fruit while watching Pei Yan continue painting the third design, chatting idly with him, “What do you think about adding a new line to my family’s business? Perhaps, making carved lacquer hairpins? I think women items would sell very well. Like selling rouge and face powder, or hair accessories.”

Pei Yan bluntly shot down her idea, “That’s a good suggestion. But have you calculated the costs?”

Yu Tang thought of her family’s mountain forest and immediately deflated, saying resentfully, “Why are you able to earn money from growing sea buckthorn trees and selling candied fruit, but I can’t?”

“Because my network is better!” Pei Yanquan had praised her then, but now said dismissively, “I have more places to sell my goods! Someone like you, whose eyes are only fixed on Hangzhou at most, of course that won’t work.”

Yu Tang provoked him, saying “Fine! Then I can open a shop in the capital. There will definitely be more opportunities there. But that requires money! Shops in the capital are so expensive, otherwise who wouldn’t want to do business in the capital?”

Pei Yanquan gazed at Yu Tang as if she were a ‘fool’, and said, “Master Wu’s family has a lot of money, so why didn’t they think of opening a shop in the capital?”

That’s because opening a shop in the capital requires connections as well.

Yu Tang got embarrassed and became angry, arguing, “What’s wrong with you? Why do you have to object to everything I say, can’t you just go along with me? If you keep acting like this, who will want to talk to you in the future!”

Why wouldn’t anyone talk to him? Everyone was eager to get some sort of benefit out of him.

However, seeing that Yu Tang seemed genuinely angry, Pei Yan wisely refrained from further arguments. Instead, he abruptly changed the subject, asking Yu Tang, “What would you like to eat later? I’ll have the kitchen prepare it for you.”

Yu Tang already had lunch here, and now he wanted her to stay for dinner?

Yu Tang replied somewhat shyly, “I… I won’t have dinner here. My elder brother told me to check the shop first when I return. They want to make a draft of the painting you gave me yesterday today.”

She felt that Pei Yan not only helped her family but also treated her to good food and drink. It would be unfair for her to leave so suddenly.

Pei Yan hadn’t thought much about it. He was also a little concerned about gossip circulating if Yu Tang stayed, so he didn’t insist. He only reminded her as he left, “Come here early tomorrow too. While I’m free for the next few days, I’ll draw some more designs for your family.”

Yu Tang dared not refuse.

That evening, Pei Yan dined with Grand Madam Pei and discussed the Dragon Boat Festival arrangements with his mother.

Grand Madam Pei rarely concerned herself with such matters anymore and readily accepted whatever Pei Yan arranged. However, after seeing Pei Yan off, she immediately pulled Chen Da Niang aside and asked, “Did Lady Yu come to the manor again today?”

Chen Da Niang smiled and replied, “Yes, she did. The servants on duty along the way are all from our courtyard; no one will gossip.”

Grand Madam Pei nodded in satisfaction and asked, “What did they do?”

“Third Master seemed to be instructing Lady Yu on painting,” Chen Da Niang said uncertainly. “As you know, Third Master hates anyone spying on him, so our people didn’t dare get too close.”

Grand Madam Pei waved her hand dismissively and smiled, “I didn’t expect Xia Guang to have such an interest.”

Chen Daniang quickly chimed in, “Who says it isn’t so? It’s clear that Third Master and Lady Yu are truly a destined match.”

Grand Madam Pei nodded and inquired about Eldest Madam’s situation. “What is she planning for Eldest Young Master’s marriage? Is she still discussing with the Yang family? I heard the Gu family sent over their dowry list. What’s included?”

Chen Daniang sighed inwardly, feeling that Eldest Madam’s decision to arrange marriage with the Gu family was a miscalculation. She replied, “The dowry includes sixty-four trunks, three thousand taels of silver, fifty acres of mulberry fields, and two shops in Hangzhou.”

If Yu Tang were here, she would see that Gu Xi’s dowry included two more shops than in her previous life.

Chen Daniang explained, “It’s said that those two shops are Master Gu’s own private property.”

Now that Gu Chang is successful, this favor (TL: Pei Yan setting up the marriage between Gu Chang and Lady Yin) would naturally be repaid by him.

Grand Madam Pei nodded, neither agreeing nor disagreeing with it. Chen Daniang was a little worried about Yu Tang, hesitating, “What about Lady Yu…”

Grand Madam Pei said, “She’ll be her aunt-in-law in the future. She certainly can’t just marry into our family like this. However, you know the Eldest Madam’s temper; it’s not worth letting her know these things now. Let’s wait until the Gu family’s dowry list is finalized.”

Chen Daniang asked in confusion, “What do you mean?”

Grand Madam Pei said, “Lady Gu’s dowry is considered quite good in Jiangnan, but compared to families like ours, it’s only the minimum requirement. If Lady Yin is sensible, she wouldn’t let her sister-in-law marry into our family like this. Let’s wait and see.”

In other words, she wanted to use this incident to test Gu Chang’s attitude towards Gu Xi and Lady Yin’s interpersonal skills.

Chen Daninang smiled and agreed, then said no more on the subject.

Yu Tang stayed at the Pei family’s residence for another two days straight. Until the day before the Dragon Boat Festival, as they had arranged to watch the dragon boat races together the next day, thus they couldn’t continue painting together.

“I’ll paint a few more for you once we get up the mountain,” Pei Yan said, preparing to take Yu Tang back after lunch.

Yu Tang was quite surprised, thinking he must have a lot of things to do tomorrow. She obediently took the paintings he painted that morning and prepared to leave.

However, Pei Yan told her to wait as he needed to change his clothes, making it seem like he wanted to go out with her.

Yu Tang was a little puzzled.

Pei Yan explained helplessly, “Didn’t you say you needed to go to the shop to check? If the prints aren’t satisfactory, what’s the point of me painting here? It has to be your family that can utilise them! I’ll go with you to take a look today.”

After the Dragon Boat Festival, he wanted to continue to convince Yu Tang to go up the mountain to escape the summer heat together with him. He didn’t want to have to come down the mountain again because of the Yu family’s business.

Yu Tang had no clue about Pei Yan’s plans. She only looked at him gratefully, wishing she could personally serve him tea and water.

Pei Yan scoffed arrogantly, “Just don’t complain about your arm getting sore when I ask you to fan me!”

Yu Tang blushed, but she said bluntly, “It’s only because I’ve never done it before! I’ll practice when I get home.”

Practice? With whom? Her father or mother?

He could barely accept if it were her parents, but what about Yu Yuan?

Pei Yan shot Yu Tang a disgruntled look and muttered, “We’ll see. It’s so hot now, don’t overwork yourself and get heatstroke. Then I’ll have to fetch a physician from Hangzhou for you, that’ll be such a hassle!”

Yu Tang felt she might get heatstroke instead from suffering Pei Yan’s temper.

She waited for Pei Yan at the entrance of the hall, feeling particularly resentful. However, thinking of Pei Yan’s arrogant attitude after doing something so small, she found him quite spoiled, which was pretty amusing, even adorable… making her want to giggle whenever she thought about it.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but smile.

Pei Yan came out and couldn’t find Yu Tang. Confused, he broke out in a cold sweat. Knowing she arrived at the hall first, he rushed over, only to find her hiding nearby, grinning like a kitten that had stolen a piece of fish. He was anxious and upset, wanting to scold Yu Tang, but also finding her antics amusing, and thinking it wouldn’t be good if she were frightened by his reprimand.

In that moment of hesitation, Yu Tang saw Pei Yan.

She smiled brightly.

Her radiant and glowing face was more dazzling than the summer sun.

Pei Yan felt his heart skip a beat.

He placed his hand on his chest, thinking to himself ‘Never mind, a grown man doesn’t hold grudges against a young lady, especially since only children and women are especially difficult to deal with.’

Both of them went together to the Yu family’s lacquerware shop.

As the Dragon Boat Festival was fast approaching, with dragon boat races the next day, the streets were crowded, mostly with people buying food. The Yu family’s lacquerware shop had many visitors but few buyers.

Pei Yan’s arrival immediately attracted everyone’s attention upon entering. He frowned and strode into the back courtyard.

Yu Yuan hurriedly came out to greet him.

Pei Yan glanced quickly at Yu Tang, who was wearing a veiled hat and trailed behind him, and said in a deep voice, “Let’s talk inside.”

Seeing his unpleasant expression, Yu Yuan’s heart tightened, and she quickly led them to the back room used for receiving distinguished guests.

Yu Tang removed her veil and breathed a sigh of relief.

The weather was really too hot.

The cooks hired from Jiangxi had brought their entire families over with their two daughters acting as maids, busily bringing them tea.

Pei Yan’s expression didn’t improve. He asked Yu Yuan, “Does Lady Yu usually come over in this manner?”

Yu Yuan didn’t immediately understand what he meant.

The cook’s daughter, quick-witted as ever, hurriedly said, “Young Miss usually comes through the back door. There aren’t many people there. Master can go out through the back door with Young Miss later. There are just too many people on the streets today.”

Pei Yan gave the girl an appreciative look and asked, “What’s your name?”

---

TL: It’s so cute seeing Pei Yan acting like a spoiled kid!

Thanks Aenean for your Ko-Fi~ I’ll try to see if I can release a chappie tomorrow. (:

Delicate Flower – Chapter 312

Chapter 312 Grinding Ink

Pei Yan felt that Madam Chen’s refusal was quite good.

With Yu Tang staying at the Pei family’s residence, everyone wanted to invite her out, and he had to struggle to think of ways to go out alone with her. It was different once Yu Tang returned to her parents’ home. As long as he got Madam Chen and Yu Wen’s consent, it would be fine.

Therefore, he advised his mother, “This isn’t a short celebration. Let her enjoy the festivals at the Yu family’s home this year.”

Next year, she’ll be celebrating the festival at the Pei family’s home.

Grand Madam Pei understood her son’s unspoken message and chuckled. On the day they returned to the Pei Main residence for the Dragon Boat Festival, she bestowed many festival gifts and medicinal herbs upon Yu Tang. The Pei family members headed directly back to the main residence, while Yu Tang returned to Qingzhu Lane.

Madam Chen prepared plenty of food, eagerly awaiting her daughter’s return. Upon seeing Yu Tang, she hugged her tightly, unwilling to let go. Yu Wen, watching from the side, couldn’t bear it any longer and clicked his tongue, saying, “It’s not like we’ll never see each other again, is this really necessary?”

“Was I wrong to miss my daughter?” Madam Chen muttered softly, shooting her husband an indignant look. She pulled Yu Tang back to her inner room to speak. “Your return, did it upset Grand Madam Pei?”

“No!” Yu Tang reassured Madam Chen for a long time, finally putting Madam Chen at ease. She happily waited for Yu Tang to change, then ate with her, and together they went to greet Madam Wang.

Madam Wang was doing needlework beside her sleeping grandson. Knowing they had arrived, she put down her things and went out to greet them.

Yu Tang respectfully bowed to Madam Wang. Madam Wang smiled and held Yu Tang’s hand, examining her closely for a while. Seeing Yu Tang’s rosy complexion and bright, sparkling eyes, she couldn’t help but laugh, “Your mother said that Grand Madam Pei summoned you to teach you some household management skills. Your mother and I were worried you wouldn’t do well, and we worried at home for ages. Now that I see you, I can finally relax. It seems that our Yu Tang and the Pei family were destined for each other.”

The last sentence was addressed to Madam Chen.

Madam Chen smiled, pursing her lips.

Yu Tang asked about Madam Xiang and learned that she had gone to the shop to deliver food for Yu Yuan. She and Madam Chen went inside to see their nephew and chatted for a while before Madam Xiang returned.

Madam Wang then invited Yu Tang and her mother to stay for dinner and sent a servant to inform Yu Bo and Yu Yuan at the shop to return for dinner as soon as possible.

Yu Tang hadn’t seen Madam Xiang for quite some time, so the two sisters-in-law sat in the courtyard chatting. As the sun began to set, Yu Bo and Yu Yuan returned, and the house bustled with activity again.

When Yu Wen arrived, the brothers inevitably talked about the Dragon Boat Festival. Yu Yuan quietly tugged at Yu Tang’s sleeve, and the siblings stood at the porch, whispering softly.

“Yesterday, the shop got a big order,” he said eagerly to Yu Tang, “It’s from a writing brush shop in Hangzhou. They ordered a thousand small boxes for storing inksticks, requesting designs like ‘rising step by step to higher positions.’ Father was overjoyed, but I had Yao San inquire, and it turns out they were introduced by Second supervisor Tong of the Pei family pawnshop. Why don’t you ask Third Master to draw a few designs for us? This is the first time we’ve received an order like this. If we do well, we can accept commissions from similar writing brush shops in the future.”

Only the wealthy could afford to study, so writing brush shops sold their wares at high prices. A carved red lacquer box like this would be a very high-end piece of the “Four Treasures of the Study” (writing brush, ink stick, inkstone, and paper).

Such a box not only required excellent craftsmanship but also elegant designs.

Not all lacquerware shops were able to make them.

If the Yu family could secure this deal, it would open up many opportunities with various writing brush shops, and the Yu family’s lacquerware shop would reach new heights in both reputation and business.

Perhaps one day it might even become a tribute item.

But Yu Tang, seeing her eldest cousin’s teasing gaze, couldn’t help but blush and retort, “It’s also because only our family can make carved red lacquer boxes like that!”

Yu Yuan chuckled.

Yu Tang knew the lacquerware skills of the Yu family’s shop. Seeing Yu Yuan’s carefree attitude, she became a little worried and couldn’t help but ask, “Brother, can we really make a thousand boxes? Perhaps I should ask Third Master Pei to design some patterns for us? He has very exacting standards. If he’s willing to design it, the result would definitely be excellent.”

Yu Yuan did indeed have this idea, but his sister wasn’t married yet. Would Third Master Pei be willing?

Yu Tang didn’t think too much about it and said, “I’ll give it a try.”

If he didn’t agree, she would pester him until he did.

It was his idea to specialize in flowers.

This situation proved that whoever came up with the idea had to continue all the work.

Pei Yan would definitely complain if he found out.

But even then, his complaints would be quite amusing…

Yu Tang thought about it and couldn’t wait to see Pei Yan.

Meanwhile, Pei Yan was a little unaccustomed to Yu Tang’s absence.

When he stayed in the summer villa, he would finish his work every morning and have lunch with Yu Tang. Afterwards, they would stroll around together, sometimes admiring flowers, sometimes watching birds. At times, when the weather was too hot, they would sit under the shade of a tree, chatting about everyday things, and time would fly by. Now that Yu Tang returned home, he suddenly seemed to have nothing much to do.

After lunch, Pei Yan mused if he should find an excuse to see Yu Tang, but before he could even act on it, Yu Tang came to see him instead.

He was secretly delighted but didn’t show it on his face. He had Ah Ming take her to the study to talk, then turned to Qing Yuan and instructed her, “Bring some fruit for Lady Yu. She likes sweet things, so choose the sweeter ones.”

Qing Yuan smiled and agreed. When she brought the fruit over, Yu Tang and Pei Yan were already sitting on bamboo chairs in the porch, chatting away.

“What design do you think would be good?” Yu Tang asked. “I brought a few designs that I’ve collected at home. Why don’t you have a look?”

Pei Yan inwardly scoffed.

Wasn’t this just an excuse to meet with him? Or did she really have something to discuss?

Regardless of the reason, Pei Yan coolly accepted the drawings from Yu Tang, glanced at them casually, before tossing them aside.

Yu Tang was quite surprised by his actions. “None of them?”

“They’re the same designs from centuries ago,” Pei Yan said dismissively, making no attempt to hide his disdain. “These are the same designs I saw when I was a child.” At this point, an idea struck him.

No matter the reason why Yu Tang came to visit him, he could use this opportunity.

“How about this,” he stood up, “I’ll draw a few designs for you. Take them back and discuss them with your brother to see which one is better. You grind the ink.”

Grind ink?!

Yu Tang couldn’t believe her ears.

However, Pei Yan had already walked into the study.

Yu Tang had no choice but to follow, confirming, “Where’s Ah-Ming? He was just here!”

Why was it left to her to grind the ink?

Pei Yan abruptly stopped and turned around, nearly causing Yu Tang to bump into him.

“Can your shop afford to wait a few more days then?” Pei Yan asked.

It took Yu Tang a few minutes to realize that Pei Yan was telling her to hurry up.

What else could she say?

She rolled up her sleeves and obediently stood before the large desk to grind ink for Pei Yan.

Ah-Ming, who ran to the kitchen to bring Yu Tang some snacks, was stopped outside the study by Qing Yuan, who then took the snacks from him.

Yu Tang had only ever grinded ink for Yu Wen, but the ink sticks Pei Yan used were heavy and rough. After grinding for a while, Yu Tang’s wrist started to ache. Just then, Pei Yan went and brought over a box of paints, intending to do a proper intricate brush painting. He explained to her, “I’ve carefully studied your family’s carved lacquerware. It relies entirely on varying shades of red for outlining. I’m using a more meticulous brushwork, so you know which areas should be lighter and which should be darker, making it easier to carve later on.”

What else could Yu Tang say?

In the end, the paints were even harder to grind than the ink.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but mutter under her breath, “What kind of ink sticks are you using? What kind of paints are these? Why are they all so hard to grind? Are they cheap products?”

Pei Yan raised an eyebrow and said, “I’m using only tribute-grade pine resin ink, and the paints also contain various crushed gemstones. Otherwise, how could the colours be so beautiful and long-lasting?”

Hmph, such a bad temper!

Yu Tang retorted indignantly, “I’ve never seen them before so how would I know what they are? It’s just a fact that they’re hard to grind.”

“You’re the one who can’t grind the ink properly, right?” Pei Yan sniffed coldly. “Besides you, I haven’t heard anyone else say they’re hard to grind.”

That’s because those people are your servants! Who would dare say such a thing?

Yu Tang felt Pei Yan lacked self-awareness and didn’t want to continue the conversation. She called Qing Yuan in and asked if Ah-Ming had returned, as she wanted to switch with Ah-Ming.

Seeing Pei Yan’s face darken, Qing Yuan dared not reveal Ah-Ming’s whereabouts. She quickly brought in the snacks and smiled, “Why don’t you rest for a while, Young Miss?”

Yu Tang immediately requested to rest.

Pei Yan had no choice but to watch her sit beside him drinking tea and eating snacks while he had to grind the paint.

Seeing this, Yu Tang became bolder and relaxed even more.

By the time Pei Yan finished drawing a pattern, the sky was already aglow with colors of the sunset.

Pei Yan handed the drawing to Yu Tang, instructing her, “Remember to come back tomorrow.”

Yu Tang looked at the drawing. It showed a magpie perched on a plum blossom branch.

The plum blossoms were delicate and proud, while the magpie was lively and playful. It was vividly brought to life on the paper, making it absolutely captivating.

Yu Tang decided to safekeep the painting.

She thanked him with a smile, took the painting and left.

Pei Yan looked at the remaining paints on the large easel and suddenly felt a pang of pity for them lying there forlornly.

Yu Yuan hadn’t expected Yu Tang to actually obtain Pei Yan’s drawing. He was once again amazed by Pei Yan’s painting skills and hesitated, “Is this alright? Didn’t you say you only needed a painting of flowers?”

Yu Tang pointed to the plum blossom branch, hesitatingly saying, “Isn’t this a flower?”

She had completely forgotten about it.

Remembering Pei Yan’s instructions, she hurriedly said, “He told me to go again tomorrow. I guess he still has some other patterns for us?”

Yu Yuan didn’t ask any more questions as he carefully studied Pei Yan’s painting. He said, “Third Master advised us to make a copy based on the shades he painted. I need to discuss it with my master. I don’t know if we can make it.”

Yu Tang got a little worried. Yu Yuan left for the shop that very night.

Early next morning, Yu Tang went to the Pei family.

The servants at the side gate of the Pei residence were already used to Yu Tang’s visits. Seeing Qing Yuan arrive, they let Yu Tang in.

Pei Yan commented, “I’ll give you a token pass for easier entry and exit!”

Yu Tang felt it wasn’t necessary to go to such lengths just to get her a pass. She could wait until she married into the family and didn’t need the Pei family’s pass right now.

This time, Pei Yan didn’t ask Yu Tang to grind ink for him. Instead, he asked her to fan him.

Yu Tang had already given up on reasoning with him. She obediently took a Sichuan fan and fanned him from behind.

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TL: The interactions between Yutang and PeiYan are so cute! >W<

Delicate Flower – Chapter 311

Chapter 311: Wedding Invitation

No matter how indignant the Pei family was, this was a matter for the Yang and Yan families to settle. Thus, eldest Lady Yang packed her bags and left the very next day for the capital.

Yu Tang asked if she could take some local gifts to Lady Xu, and eldest Lady Yang readily agreed. Pei Yan, however, felt this wasn’t good, saying “I’ll be sending a congratulatory gift to Yin Mingyuan in a few days’ time, you can send your gifts along with mine. The Yang family’s affairs are rather complicated. Lady Xu may not necessarily wish to be on good terms with Eldest Lady Yang.”

As she was unaware of the long-standing intricate relationships between these distinguished families, it was naturally best to heed Pei Yan’s advice. Pei Yan took her to the flower garden located at the back of the mountains, showing her the family’s flowers and trees whilst discussing the Yang family’s affairs. “…in the capital, he’s just a minor official, so he has no choice but to ensure his wife and daughters socialise with families of long-standing officialdom lineage. The Yan family is in a similar situation, but I’ve heard that the boy is quite a studious one. I’m guessing he’s unwilling to settle down so early and is hoping to use this as an excuse to secure a more prestigious marriage.”

If that’s really the case, it wouldn’t be wise of her to have Eldest Lady Yang deliver her gift to Lady Xu.

Pei Yan gazed at her with a tender smile and added, “From now on, it’s good to check with me first before making any decisions.”

His gaze was quite profound and carried a hint of intensity, causing Yu Tang to blush involuntarily as she murmured a quiet “Yes”.

Upon learning of this change of plans, Eldest Lady Yang could not help but feel a sense of regret. For reasons unknown, as she was leaving, she lamented to Yu Tang, “Actually, I was quite close to the third young lady from Eldest Madam Pei’s maternal family. Back then, Eldest young master Pei and Third Young Lady Yang were as inseparable as honey and oil. We all envied them lovebirds terribly. I never imagined that not long after Third Young Lady Yang passed away, Eldest Young Master Pei would be engaged to Lady Gu. It just goes to show what sort of man he is…” She shook her head as she spoke.

Yu Tang, naturally, would defend the Pei family. Upon hearing this, she laughed and replied, “Eldest Lady Yang, please be mindful of your words! Third young lady Yang has passed away. She and Eldest young master Pei were direct cousins and grew up together from childhood and therefore it’s natural for them to be very close. Yet, the way you put it, it sounded as though they had some sort of clandestine affair. Not only would this reflect badly on eldest young master Pei, but it would also damage Third young lady Yang’s reputation. Since you yourself have said that Third Young Lady Yang was once on very good terms with you, all the more so, you ought not to put stock into such unfounded rumors.”

Eldest Lady Yang’s face flushed crimson and she hurriedly climbed into her carriage and departed.

The Pei young ladies all gathered round, asking her what Eldest Lady Yang said to her as she left.

Yu Tang smiled and replied. “Nothing much, really. She just asked about my relationship with Lady Xu.”

The Xu family was one of the most prominent households in this dynasty, so it was only natural that Eldest Lady Yang would want to curry favour with Lady Xu. The Pei sisters didn’t pry, but tugged at Yu Tang’s sleeve, saying. “When will you finish sorting out those accounts? We’re planning a barbecue for the Dragon Boat Festival and we’d love for you to join us!”

Yu Tang felt a flush of embarrassment.

She was so engrossed in her activities with Pei Yan these past few days that not only did she still have a mountain of accounts to sort through, but she had also completely forgotten about these Pei young ladies.

And she’d already made plans with Pei Yan…

What on earth was she to do then?

Yu Tang felt a headache coming on.

She decided to leave the matter to Pei Yan.

After all, he was good at coming up with ideas and it was also his suggestion to ditch everyone and go to Tiaoxi Hall for the Dragon Boat Festival instead.

Whoever suggested it should take responsibility.

Thinking of this, Yu Tang couldn’t help but smile to herself.

Fourth Miss Pei asked curiously, “Sister Yu, what are you smiling about? You look so happy!”

“Nothing, nothing!” Yu Tang felt inexplicably guilty; she was still a little apprehensive leaving Pei Yan to handle it alone. “I don’t know when I’ll ever finish sorting through all those accounts. We’ll just have to see how things go and make plans as we go.”

Fourth Young Lady sighed.

Grand Madam Pei brought over several steamed buns, saying they were made at Bitter Nunnery. She found them delicious and had the kitchen staff remake them.

Fifth Young Lady said cheerfully, “I thought they were so delicious, but didn’t dare to ask for more. Thanks to Sister Yu, we got to eat them again today.”

Not to be outdone, Fourth Young Lady quickly ran over and sat down beside Fifth Young Lady to grab a bite.

Third Young Lady glanced at Yu Tang but unexpectedly did not join in the commotion with Fourth and Fifth Young Ladies.

Only Second Young Lady was still preoccupied with her thoughts and paid little attention to the scene around Yu Tang.

All of them along with Yu Tang had breakfast together, then went to pay their respects to Grand Madam Pei.

At Grand Madam Pei’s residence, they met up with Second Madam, who had just arrived from Lin’an City.

Fifth Young Lady threw herself into her mother’s arms, acting all coquettish.

Second Madam smiled affectionately as she ruffled her daughter’s hair and exchanged greetings with Yu Tang. She continued her conversation with Grand Madam Pei. “The Gu family have sent over the wedding invitations. The date is set for the twenty-sixth of September. They say that once the marriage is settled, it will be better for Lady Yin to accompany Minister Gu to the capital as soon as possible.”

The late Grand Elder Pei’s mourning period would end on the 10th of September, so the Pei Ladies would be free to attend Gu Chang’s wedding.

Was Gu Chang’s wedding date a mere coincidence, or was it deliberately arranged?

However, by that time, Second Madam along with Second Master’s household would also be in a hurry to depart for the capital. Furthermore, with Eldest Madam now a widow and Pei Yan’s upcoming marriage arrangements, the question of who would attend Gu Chang’s wedding was now a matter for Grand Madam to decide.

The young ladies exchanged glances, signaling subtly with their eyes.

Grand Madam took the wedding invitation from Second Madam and studied it for a while before passing it to Chen Daniang, saying, “I shall discuss this matter with Xia Guang first before making a decision.”

After all, it also involved Pei Yan’s marriage.

Second Madam, hearing this, shot a discreet glance at Yu Tang, smiled sweetly in agreement, and returned to her own courtyard to change her clothes, leaving a few young maids behind to keep Grand Madam company.

After some conversation, Yu Tang, mindful of her unfinished accounts, rose early to take her leave.

Grand Madam did not detain her, instead asking the young ladies to keep her company whilst she played cards.

In the afternoon, the young ladies were keeping Grand Madam company as they listened to a female storyteller, whilst Pei Yan went to the side hall to help Yu Tang with the accounts.

The two inevitably chatted about the Dragon Boat Festival.

Pei Yan, looking somewhat displeased, chided the young ladies for ‘fooling around’. Then, just as Yu Tang had predicted, he took full responsibility for it, sparing her any further worries over the Dragon Boat Festival.

A few days passed in this manner. After Yu Tang finished with the accounts, Grand Madam Pei summoned her to ask what she had learnt.

Yu Tang, of course, dared not mention that the figures in the ledgers differed from market rates. She merely spoke what she felt comfortable saying. “I didn’t find any errors, but I do feel that the household’s expenditure for the New Year’s and other festivals seems to increase year on year.”

Grand Madam nodded vigorously upon hearing this, and asked her with eyes brimming with anticipation, “Would you be interested in learning the art of calculation from me?”

What was that?

Yu Tang was somewhat puzzled.

Grand Madam Pei then spent quite some time explaining it to her.

Yu Tang listened, feeling rather confused, but Grand Madam felt she had a natural aptitude for it and seemed very keen on it. Yu Tang decided she might as well treat it as a way of showing filial piety towards Grand Madam and simply keep her company by doing it—the only difference being that Grand Madam’s interests were a little different from others.

“I’m just afraid I won’t be able to learn it properly!” Yu Tang replied modestly.

“It’s all right,” Grand Madam Pei said magnanimously. “There’s no rush.”

Seeing how delighted Grand Madam was, Yu Tang felt that her decision was the right one.

But when Pei Yan found out about it, his face fell. Pacing back and forth in the pavilion where he often met with her, he explained “My mother is utterly obsessed with this. Previously, she feared my father’s disapproval and wouldn’t dare do it openly at home, but later realised he didn’t care at all, so she grew bolder and bolder. For a time, she barely attended to household affairs as she was so engrossed in it. Once, my second brother was on an outing with Mother and fell into the lake because of her inattention, only then did she withdraw a little.”

If she got carried away with this, he feared he might hardly get to see Yu Tang again.

Pei Yan hurriedly added, “My mother will certainly give you a book to look at. Once you get the book, you must let me know. I’ll find a way to stop her from bothering you.”

“That wouldn’t be right, would it?” asked Yu Tang. “Grand Madam is getting on in years and has little else to do. I’ll just keep her company with this.”

Pei Yan didn’t know how best to put it across to Yu Tang and replied anxiously, “You must listen to me on this. Just remember to let me know as soon as you receive the book she sends you.”

It was a minor issue, so Yu Tang readily agreed.

Later, Grand Madam did indeed send her a book, called [The Nine Chapters on Mathematical Arts], asking her to have a look first and let her know if there was anything she didn’t understand.

Yu Tang flipped through it and felt it seemed rather simple.

She told Pei Yan about it.

Far from being reassured, Pei Yan got even more anxious.

He was just wondering how to broach the subject with Grand Madam when the Dragon Boat Festival drew near. Grand Madam wished to have Yu Tang stay at the summer villa for the festival and had specially invited Madam Chen up to the mountain to discuss the matter with her.

Madam Chen was reluctant to let her daughter spend the festival at the Pei household.

Grand Madam, of course, understood this, and so, simply invited the entire Yu family to spend the festival at the summer estate.

Madam Chen thought that although the two families were soon to be united by marriage, their relationship was not yet official, and so she declined the invitation tactfully. However, fearing that Grand Madam might dislike Yu Tang as a result, she invited Grand Madam Pei down the mountain instead. “There’s a dragon boat race in Tiaoxi that day. Why not go and see the festivities there?”

Grand Madam had no interest in such things, but Pei Yan, standing by her side, urged her on. “We’ll go and return the same day. It’s a rare chance for the young ladies to get out of the house. Just think of it as taking them out to see the world.”

Grand Madam, doted on her young ones, mulled it over and agreed.

As soon as Madam Chen left Grand Madam’s courtyard, she went straight to find Yu Tang.

Having not seen her for nearly a fortnight, she took Yu Tang’s hand and examined her from head to toe. Yu Tang’s cheeks were rosy and fair, looking even more beautiful than when she was at home, and she was full of smiles. Madam Chen asked about Yu Tang’s life here. “Why did Grand Madam ask you to stay here? I see the courtyard where you’re staying is right next to the Grand Madam. Not only is it spacious, but it’s also quite close to her. It seems that Grand Madam holds you in even higher regard now. You mustn’t be mischievous. You must be dutiful and respectful to Grand Madam.”

Yutang felt a little embarrassed, but she explained to her mother the reason Grand Madam asked her to stay here, adding, “Although I’m quite happy here, I do miss you and Father. We must certainly spend the Dragon Boat Festival together as a family.”

As for Pei Yan, wasn’t he confident of his plans? She needn’t worry about a thing.

Madam Chen was overjoyed and hurriedly asked what Yu Tang did recently, and what Grand Madam Pei said.

Yu Tang answered every question she asked.

Madam Chen grew happier as she listened, and, taking Yu Tang’s hand, she said emotionally, “That’s good, that’s good. You must learn well from Grand Madam. Others would give anything to be in your position!”

She began to regret having turned down Grand Madam Pei’s invitation.

Grand Madam Pei had her heart set on Yutang’s welfare. Perhaps there was a reason behind her suggestion that Yutang should stay at the Pei household for the Dragon Boat Festival.

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Thanks Aenean and kuroneko_chan for your support on ko-fi~ Bonus chappie coming tomorrow (:

Delicate Flower – Chapter 310

Chapter 310 Blossoming Love

Yu Tang’s face burned red, but her heart was filled with sweetness. Her voice was soft and mellow like thick, irresistible sugar syrup. “Who’s going to your home to choose a courtyard? I want to return home for the Dragon Boat Festival!”

Pei Yan watched as her fair skin gradually turn rosy, as if watercolour paint was dropped onto a blank sheet of paper, and he was the one painting it. In that instant, his heart fluttered, as if he had drunk a cup of strong liquor.

He was indescribably thrilled and couldn’t help but whisper in her ear, “We’ll spend the Dragon Boat Festival at our home! I’ll go with you to watch the dragon boat races.”

Why was he so close?

Yu Tang smelled the faint, sandalwood-like scent emanating from Pei Yan again.

Her face turned even redder, and she stammered, “Well, that requires my mother’s permission!”

In other words, Yu Tang agreed.

Pei Yan was satisfied with her response.

Yu Tang must like him too, otherwise she wouldn’t have answered him like that.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” He patted his chest confidently, like a peacock spreading its tail feathers, surveying the world with an air of superiority. “Just think about what you want to wear for the Dragon Boat Festival.” Then, as if remembering something, he added, “I’ll have someone from the jewelry store come and make you some jewelry in a couple of days.”

Wouldn’t that make she seem like a greedy person?

“I don’t need any!” Yu Tang refused Pei Yan without hesitation. “I have new jewelry and clothes.”

However, they certainly wouldn’t be as good as the craftsmen he had.

Pei Yan wanted to insist, but Yu Tang already stood up, walked to a large tree nearby, and fanned her face with her hand, saying, “It’s too hot!”

It was unclear whether her face was turning red from being shy or from the intense sun.

Whatever the reason, Pei Yan glanced at Ah-Ming with some displeasure. He felt that Ah-Ming wasn’t quick-witted enough. Serving in the study was ideal for him but when they were outside, it wasn’t very convenient for him to send instructions. Hu Xing was good, but when he was with Yu Tang, he didn’t like having Hu Xing around.

‘We’ll have to hire another servant.’

Pei Yan mused. He saw the servant who casted the fishing rod for Yu Tang pull out a palm-leaf fan out of nowhere and stand on the steps, vigorously fanning them.

He gave the servant an appreciative look, memorized his appearance, before taking the fan from the servant, and, while fanning Yu Tang, he said, “Is there anywhere else you would like to visit for the Dragon Boat Festival? The dragon boat races probably won’t be until late afternoon. After the races start, I can accompany you for a walk. There won’t be many people at Tiaoxi Hall that day. Would you like to rest there? We can go see who wins when the prizes are awarded.”

Tiaoxi Hall was a waterside pavilion built by the Pei family for the public, located on the banks of the Tiaoxi River, covering about ten acres. It was modeled after the academies of Hangzhou and was a favorite gathering place for local students in Lin’an. Many people would gather there on the first and fifteenth of each lunar month.

Yu Tang often went there with Yu Wen when she was little, but after her seventh birthday, she never went again. The spacious, open hall of Tiaoxi Hall, the tall, dense trees, and the gushing brook all left a deep impression on her.

Yu Tang was somewhat tempted.

Pei Yan urged her, “Everyone likes the open and spacious area of Tiaoxi Hall. Actually, there’s another courtyard behind Tiaoxi Hall, with lush flowers and trees, and a library. Next to the library is a pavilion. Before I took office, I would occasionally take friends from Hangzhou there for a stroll. We could even have barbecue there. Or we can have lunch there. What do you think?”

Yu Tang was very eager to go.

Pei Yan, upon seeing her expression, made the decision. “Then it’s settled. I’ll send Qing Yuan to accompany you.”

They also needed to find a way to clear the area to avoid anyone seeing them, which would damage Yu Tang’s reputation.

This matter would be handled by Hu Xing.

But on that day of the Dragon Boat Festival, his mother would definitely need someone to serve beside her.

He would need to send a steward.

Pei Yan suddenly realized that Yu Tang didn’t have any attendants available.

However, since his mother promised to help Yu Tang familiarize herself with the Pei household affairs beforehand, she certainly wouldn’t overlook this issue.

His mind raced, and he unintentionally began to check on what Yu Tang liked.

Yu Tang was very open with Pei Yan, and since she genuinely enjoyed chatting with him, the two unknowingly talked for a long time, forgetting all about fishing.

Over at Bitter Nunnery, Grand Madam Pei, who was planning to stay for dinner before returning to her residence, was astonished to hear that Pei Yan took Yu Tang fishing. Her mouth dropped open in shock, and she asked Chen Da niang, “Did I hear that right? With his fickle temperament, he actually took Lady Yu fishing?”

“It’s true!” Chen Da niang ‘s eyes lit up with joy. “Not only did they go fishing, but they had so much to talk about. They stood on the steps by the pavilion, the sun beating down on their faces, and yet didn’t move an inch.”

Grand Madam Pei chuckled heartily, recalling when Pei Yan was little. She and Grand Elder Pei took him to Zhaoming Temple for a vegetarian meal. When they chatted for a little too long, he became impatient, complaining that they shouldn’t take him out next time. Now, only in just a few days, he and his future wife were talking up a storm.

Her youngest son had truly grown up.

Grand Madam Pei then asked Chen Da niang, “Where are they having dinner?”

Chen da niang smiled and said, “They most likely would have dinner at Lady Yu’s. The messenger said the cooks at Third Master’s place are all playing mahjong together, while the cooks at Lady Yu’s place have already started making pastries.”

Grand Madam Pei, relieved that her youngest son’s dinner was settled, was helped by Chen Da niang to her feet and said, “Come, let’s check out the kitchen at Bitter Nunnery. Their abbot boasts that their preserved vegetable pancakes are the most fragrant, better than anything sold outside. Let’s try them and bring some back for Third Master and the others.”

Chen Da niang smiled and agreed. She then helped Grand Madam Pei to the kitchen at Bitter Nunnery.

Meanwhile, Yu Tang was troubled.

They… only caught two fishes.

One was the foot-long grass carp she caught earlier, and the other was a chopstick-sized crucian carp that Pei Yan “caught.”

Moreover, Pei Yan was still in mourning! Yu Tang suggested, “How about we call it a day and come fishing another time? These two fishes aren’t good for frying or making soup either.”

When it comes to cooking, pretty much any fish would do.

Pei Yan saw what Yu Tang was thinking and had the servants release both fishes, saying, “Let’s just release them back into the wild!”

Yu Tang secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

Pei Yan smiled slightly.

He didn’t plan to take the fishes with them in the first place; the so-called “eating fish for dinner” was just a way to make Yu Tang think he wanted her to carry the fish basket, as a way to tease her.

However, he was even happier that she kept him in mind at all times, so he explained, “You don’t need to worry about me. My family isn’t that strict. Three years of vegetarianism is manageable for me, but the older folks and children can’t cope well. We usually supplement their diets with things like steamed egg custard. You haven’t officially joined our family yet, so feel free to eat whatever you want. Don’t worry about me.”

Knowing now Pei Yan’s personality, how he couldn’t even stand having brightly coloured flowers around when his father passed away, he’d surely be strictly adhering to all the rituals during this mourning period, wouldn’t he?

Yu Tang nodded but didn’t act presumptuously. Instead, while Pei Yan went back to his room to change, she went to the kitchen and arranged a completely vegetarian meal.

Pei Yan didn’t say anything while eating, but after the meal, he sent someone to deliver a Hetian jade pendant to her.

It was a pure white, delicate stone, the size of a goose egg. Only the yellow part of the jade was used to carve a lifelike reclining deer on its side—a very rare, exquisite piece. Yu Tang liked it very much.

Upon hearing this, Grand Madam Pei sighed and said to Chen Da niang, “There’s a reason why he’s taken a liking to Lady Yu. Look at how thoughtful she is. Additionally, she can laugh and converse so easily with him; how could he not be moved?”

Chen Da niang, fearing that Grand Madam Pei might develop some resentment towards Yu Tang, which would result in difficulties for them as servants who were serving closely by her side, to have to choose between her and Yu Tang, quickly added, “This is also Lady Yu’s good fortune that she and the Third Master are so compatible!”

Grand Madam Pei didn’t reply, and after washing up, she went to bed.

Yu Tang, however, having just received that new jade, played with it in bed for a long time before falling asleep.

The next morning, she thought about giving Pei Yan something as a thank you gift. However, the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Misses came together, saying they wanted to go with her to pay their respects to Grand Madam Pei.

Remembering Eldest Lady Yang’s purpose for going to the Bitter nunnery yesterday, Yu Tang knew their visit wasn’t merely to pay their respects to Grand Madam Pei. She chuckled for a while, then asked, “You want to tell me about Eldest Lady Yang and Young Master Yan, right?”

“Yes, yes!” Fourth Miss Pei, the most lively of the bunch was the first to jump in, winking at Yu Tang, saying, “Sister Yu, guess what happened yesterday?”

Generally, for such marriages, if the other party’s appearance doesn’t have any obvious flaws, both parties would agree.

Thus, fourth young lady’s question left Yu Tang somewhat puzzled.

“What happened?” she asked curiously.

The three young ladies of the Pei family exchanged glances and said in unison to Yu Tang, “Sister Yu, you should guess first. If you can’t guess, then we’ll tell you.”

Yu Tang, feeling like a child being toyed with, didn’t think much of it and made up several reasons on the spot, all of which were unsurprisingly rejected by the three ladies. Finally, third young lady couldn’t hold back any longer and said to Yu Tang, “This marriage is definitely not going to happen.”

“Tell me quickly, what happened?” Yu Tang feigned surprise, urging them to speak.

Third young lady sighed and said, “Young Master Yan is just too ugly.”

It’s good that nothing else happened.

Yu Tang breathed a sigh of relief.

But her sigh of relief came too soon. Fifth Miss added, “Another young man came to accompany Young Master Yan on the matchmaking. I don’t know what Young Master Yan was thinking, but his cousin was incredibly handsome. When Eldest Lady Yang saw him, her face immediately darkened. She said the Yan family must have done it on purpose, trying to get her to break off the engagement.”

Third Miss Pei added, “Second Sister didn’t return to her room all night yesterday, all the while comforting Eldest Lady Yang. Eldest Lady Yang is caught in a dilemma right now. If she doesn’t break off the engagement, the Yan family, or rather Young Master Yan, by his actions, already showed that he doesn’t want a marriage alliance with the Yang family. If she does break off the engagement, it plays right into Young Master Yan’s hands, and Eldest Lady Yang is unwilling to accept that.”

“The Yan family’s actions are so underhanded and despicable!” Fourth Miss piped up indignantly. “If they didn’t want to, they shouldn’t have proposed! Since they did propose, how could they do such a thing!”

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 309

Chapter 309 Fishing

Earthworms?!

Those small, wriggling, dark brown squiggly worms?!

Yu Tang felt goosebumps rise all over her skin. She quietly took two steps back, her voice trembling slightly as she responded, “Earthworms? Why use earthworms? Don’t fishes eat grains?”

Pei Yan shot Yu Tang a disdainful look and said, “Who told you fishes eat grains? Only pigs eat that.”

Is that so?

Yu Tang wasn’t sure, so she didn’t dare refute him.

However, she still couldn’t stand the sight of earthworms.

Not wanting to show her fear, she casually took a few steps back and sat on a chaise lounge by the pavilion, asking from afar, “Are there fishes in this river? What kinds of fishes?” Then, glancing around at the view, she spotted some maple trees in the distance and quickly pointed to them, saying, “Are those maple trees? In autumn, the scenery here must be beautiful. The leaves are redder than flowers in February. Do people come here to enjoy the scenery in winter?”

Pei Yan watched her desperately trying to mask her fear and change the subject, thinking she was being so timid, like a kitten caught for a bath, looking so adorable and pitiful, he couldn’t bear to tease her any longer. He stood up, dusted himself off, and walked to her side. Following her gaze, he recognized the maple trees he planted as a child and couldn’t help but smile. “Those indeed are maple trees,” he said. “I saw them on the way to Fenglin Temple on Mount Wutai with my father when I was little. I thought they were quite rare, so I asked someone to get me a few. At that time, my mother was renovating the courtyard, and the craftsmen didn’t know where to plant them, so my father planted them in the outer courtyards.”

“Is that so?”

Yu Tang got interested and went over to check.

Pei Yan smiled and followed her, asking, “How did you recognize this as a maple tree? Most people wouldn’t.”

Yu Tang replied somewhat proudly, “I’m the only child in my family and my father loved children. He always carried me on his shoulders since I was little. Afraid of what people would say, he dressed me as a boy and often took me to his poetry gatherings and such. But while he was at these gatherings, he would forget about me, letting me run around with the servants. That’s how I learn to recognize not only various trees but also many flowers.” At this point, she remembered something, “I noticed there aren’t many flowering trees in your courtyard. Don’t you like flowers?”

“Not really,” Pei Yan rubbed his nose pensively, thought for a moment, and then said softly, “When my father passed away, it was summer, and the flowers were in full bloom, so vibrant and lively, as if they didn’t know sorrow. It annoyed me, so I had them all removed.”

Flowers and trees are inanimate things; they don’t know the joys and sorrows of humans!

She disliked vibrant colors because of her father’s death, but she never expected Pei Yan to be this sentimental too.

Was he really like the saying, “The seemingly heartless are often the most affectionate”?

Yu Tang pondered over this and peered at Pei Yan’s handsome face, so alluring because of his air of mystery and aloofness, and her heart suddenly melted.

“Perhaps it’s because you prefer trees,” Yu Tang couldn’t help but make up an excuse for him. “Look at where you live, look at the pavilions you chose—it’s all surrounded by lush trees.”

The older generation once said that those who love mountains are virtuous, and those who love water are sentimental.

So, what kind of person was Pei Yan?

Yu Tang’s gaze towards him couldn’t help but reveal a hint of adoration.

Pei Yan, of course, could sense it.

To receive such direct admiration from a beautiful lady like Yu Tang was already rare enough, let alone coming from the person he loved.

Pei Yan felt a sense of pure elation.

Just like the first time his father praised his writing, the first time he participated in the imperial examination, the first time he wore official robes… no wonder people compared passing of the imperial examination to the wedding night.

He couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow and smile, replying, “You’ll see it for yourself later, won’t you?”

Yu Tang’s heart pounded wildly.

When someone who doesn’t smile often smiles, it’s as if their whole being is illuminated. It was truly captivating.

She forgot to answer Pei Yan’s question and smiled foolishly along with him.

This girl, she has no idea of restraint at all.

Pei Yan smiled, his eyes full of affection, unaware of how gentle his smile was. In his heart, he thought it was fortunate that he had brought Yu Tang fishing alone. Otherwise, if someone saw Yu Tang like this, they would definitely think that there was something going on between them.

He also secretly rejoiced that he made the last-minute decision to let Yu Tang learn household management skills from his mother beforehand, which gave them time to spend together before marriage.

Pei Yan and Yu Tang silently rested by the pavilion, one standing and one sitting, contentedly keeping each other company. If Ah-Ming hadn’t called out to Pei Yan after baiting the hook with earthworms, they might have continued sitting quietly.

Ah-Ming’s call not only broke the silence but also brought Yu Tang back to her previous dilemma.

She frowned.

Pei Yan glanced at her amusedly. He walked to a small stool by the lake, sat down, and beckoned to her, “Why don’t you try fishing too?”

Yu Tang then noticed that two stools were placed on the steps of the pavilion near the lakeside. The bamboo basket she previously carried was now tied with a rope and floating in the lake. Several unfamiliar servants stood respectfully beside them as attendants. She saw neither earthworms nor any other bait.

She walked to the lake and craned her neck to look.

The lake was empty.

How could she fish like this?

Yu Tang was muttering to herself when she saw a servant pick up a fishing rod, cast it into the lake, and hand it to Pei Yan, who was sitting on a stool. Pei Yan took the rod, his eyes fixed on the lake’s surface, watching its movements.

This is fishing?

Yu Tang glanced at Pei Yan’s snow-white clothes.

She felt she must have guessed correctly.

She craned her neck to look around and saw two servants huddled together, putting something on the hook.

Sure enough, this was what Pei Yan called fishing.

She had really underestimated Pei Yan.

Yu Tang’s inner self covered her face in embarrassment, feeling that Pei Yan had once again “broadened her horizons.”

However, Pei Yan remained completely oblivious, urging her, “Sit down quickly. I had someone spray mosquito repellent, and the sun is high and hidden in the sky, so you won’t get sunburnt. You’ll find fishing interesting after you catch a couple of fishes.”

She probably would never understand the meaning of fishing.

Yu Tang muttered to herself as she sat down on a small stool near her feet.

A servant cast another fishing rod, which Ah-Ming ran to catch and handed over to Yu Tang.

Yu Tang found the rod quite heavy; she held it for a while before feeling tired and shifting her position.

Pei Yan, as if he had eyes at the back of his head, instructed a servant beside him, “Hold it for Lady Yu.”

The servant immediately ran over and took the fishing rod from Yu Tang.

Yu Tang’s hands were empty; she had nothing to do.

She tried to strike up a conversation with Pei Yan. “Do you often go fishing?”

However, Pei Yan shushed her, signaling her to be quiet, and whispered, “Be careful not to scare the fish away.”

Then he went back to intently watching the lake.

What were they doing here?

Just sitting like this?

Yu Tang propped her elbows on her knees and rested her chin on her hands, finding fishing incredibly boring.

But when her father and the others went fishing, they chatted and laughed, having a great time!

Maybe only fishing with Pei Yan that’s so boring!

Yu Tang pursed her lips, resolving never to go fishing with Pei Yan again, when she noticed the servant holding her fishing rod suddenly take two steps towards her.

She jumped in fright.

She leaned back, almost falling… then saw the servant excitedly hook the rod… and a foot-long fish surfaced…

“Not bad, not bad!” Pei Yan stood up, praising Yu Tang, “I didn’t expect you to catch a fish so quickly.”

Immediately, a servant ran over, carrying the bamboo basket she brought earlier.

The fish was placed in the basket and the fishing rod was baited and cast into the lake.

The servants continued baiting, casting, and holding the rod for her.

This was Pei Yan’s idea of fishing.

Okay!

She shouldn’t have had any expectations of Pei Yan, a man who had an almost borderline obsessive view of cleanliness.

Now Yu Tang could sit and “fish” in peace.

Yu Tang found the surrounding scenery truly beautiful.

Sitting here, the view was breathtaking, with the lakes and mountains surrounding her.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but strike up a conversation again with Pei Yan. “What are you doing here in autumn though? Autumn generally isn’t a good season for fishing, right?”

Her father usually went fishing in the summer.

Thinking of the scrolls stored in the large blue-and-white porcelain jars in Pei Yan’s study, she asked, “Do you like painting? Do you often paint in this pavilion?” Then she thought of the flower paintings he did for their lacquerware shop, “I’ve heard that to paint flowers, you must observe and appreciate them to know when they bloom and how to paint them in various stages of bloom. Your flower paintings are so good; have you observed flowers for long periods of time?”

The chatter, although pleasant to the ears, sounded like a hundred orioles chirping in his ears.

Pei Yan felt a little peeved.

No one had ever dismissed his words so quickly like Yu Tang.

He told her to be quiet, or she would scare the fish away, and she was quiet for a while but now…

Pei Yan turned around and saw Yu Tang’s eyes, brighter than usual with overflowing curiosity. All the annoyances he wanted to vent were suddenly caught in his throat.

Yu Tang asked him, “I know there’s a greenhouse here. Does your residence also have one?”

Pei Yan hesitated for a moment, then finally replied, “Yes, there is one, but it’s smaller than this one. The largest greenhouse in the Pei family’s residence is behind Grand Madam’s courtyard. My great-grandmother loved growing flowers, and that greenhouse seemed to have been built for her. It was expanded during her time, and later, after my mother married into the family, it grew again because my maternal grandfather, who also loved growing flowers, brought over many rare varieties. The courtyard you lived in in Hangzhou also has a greenhouse that was built by my maternal grandfather. When he was unwell, he worried that his plants would be neglected and left unattended, so he moved a large portion of them to our greenhouse. If you have the time, you can go and see it. There are at least six hundred varieties of orchids there alone. If you like, you can transplant some to our courtyard’s greenhouse.”

What?! Our courtyard?!

Yu Tang blushed, avoiding Pei Yan’s gaze.

Pei Yan was confused by her reaction and only realized what he said after a while. But when he returned to his senses, he only felt a sweet warmth.

It seemed that talking about marriage was quite interesting.

At least it was more interesting than fishing right now.

He sat up straight, staring at the calm, still lake, and said, “Ah-Tang, do you like the courtyard I’m living in right now? If you don’t, how about we move to another courtyard? Or I can talk to Mother about it, and during the Dragon Boat Festival, when we watch the dragon boat races, we can return to the mansion for a few days. You can walk around and see which courtyard you like, and we’ll move to the one you prefer.”

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 308

Chapter 308 Special Tutoring

Of course, Pei Yan didn’t spread this rumor.

Although he set a trap for Gu Chang, once Gu Chang fell into it, he stopped paying attention.

In reality, it was Gu Xi who spread the rumor.

Because her father coveted her mother’s dowry, she was gossiped about by the elders of the Gu Family since childhood and long since had enough.

This time, for her dowry, her father even resorted to such shameless tactics.

She had already given up on her father, so she wasn’t particularly heartbroken. However, when her brother’s marriage to the Yin family was finalized, her father, angered by her brother’s actions, actually tried to use the same old trick again. He wanted to use her brother’s marriage to the Yin family and divert some of the Yin family’s dowry to use for her to preserve their family’s dignity. After discovering her brother’s agreement with the Yin family, he cursed their deceased mother in the grave.

Although doing this resulted in casualties for both parties, she still felt a sense of satisfaction and was willing to bear the consequences. Her maid, He Xiang, got very worried, asking, “What if the groom’s family…”

Gu Xi pursed her lips, saying, “Do you think the Pei family is like the Li family, a nouveau riche? The Pei family values ​​their reputation. Even if I’m disgraced and the engagement is broken off, they’ll keep it a secret and won’t say a bad word about me to outsiders.”

Wouldn’t they be forcing the Pei Family to deceive others by trying to maintain their integrity?

He Xiang was torn.

Gu Xi smiled, saying, “That’s why you have to be alert when choosing a family to marry into.”

He Xiang lowered her head and remained silent.

Meanwhile, after Yu Tang sent off the two young ladies of the Pei family and finished checking two account books, it was almost dusk.

Shuang Tao felt sorry for her and together with Qing Yuan made her ginseng and chicken soup.

As Yu Tang drank the soup, Eldest Lady Yang and Second Lady Pei arrived, bringing her some pastries from the capital. Yu Tang naturally offered them some soup. The two women were somewhat surprised and politely declined. Yu Tang then learned that Eldest Lady Yang and the others were going to visit the nearby Bitter Nunnery the next day and invited her to go along with them.

She glanced somewhat awkwardly at the towering pile of account books on her desk and could only politely refuse.

The two ladies didn’t press the matter. After chatting with Yu Tang for a few minutes about the incense at Bitter Nunnery, they got up to take their leave.

Yu Tang sensed that the two ladies seemed to be here for more than just an invitation to bitter nunnery, otherwise, Fourth and Fifth Miss would have asked her about it when they came over that afternoon.

She couldn’t help but ask Qing Yuan, “Do you know what they came here for?”

Qing Yuan soon found out and replied “Tomorrow, Eldest Lady Yang is going to have a matchmaking meeting at Bitter Nunnery. She probably wants to invite you to go with her. With more people, it won’t be so conspicuous that it’s a matchmaking.”

Yu Tang inquired with interest about the man Eldest Lady Yang was going to marry.

Qingyuan, as expected of a maidservant in Pei Yan’s household, knew to anticipate questions from Yu Tang, and had already gathered all the information she might need to answer her queries.

This was likely the difference between an ordinary maidservant and a first-rank maidservant.

“His surname is Yan. He is said to be a scholar and his family is very wealthy,” Qingyuan said slowly. “He’s actually a distant relative within five generations of Grand Madam Yi. Since he passed the examination, he probably wanted to make a name for himself in the government, so he cultivated a relationship with Grand Madam Yi, becoming very close to her family. The Yang family only agreed to the Yan family’s marriage proposal because of Grand Elder Yi. The Yang family entrusted this matchmaking to Grand Madam Yi. Grand Madam Yi doesn’t like arranging matchmaking, so when she heard that Grand Madam Pei was coming, she pushed it to her instead. That’s how the matchmaking at Bitter Nunnery came about.”

Yu Tang nodded repeatedly.

Qingyuan smiled and reminded her, “If everything goes smoothly tomorrow, Eldest Lady Yang will be returning to the capital in two days. Would you like to bring something for Lady Xu?”

Yu Tang didn’t expect Eldest Lady Yang and Lady Xu to be so close.

Qingyuan smiled and explained, “Eldest Lady Yang and Lady Xu are only acquaintances. However, the Yang family and our Pei family will soon be related by marriage from now on. I think Eldest Lady Yang would be very happy to help out between in-laws.”

Yu Tang also missed Lady Xu a little, and she excitedly discussed with Qingyuan what to give her.

Meanwhile as Eldest Lady Yang and Second Miss Pei left Yu Tang’s courtyard, they couldn’t help but glance back at the red-lacquered, auspicious-shaped gate before smiling and saying, “I didn’t expect Lady Yu’s cook to be so skilled. The chicken soup was so rich and flavorful; I almost bit my tongue while eating! And the fruits served was arranged in a ‘joyful’ pattern, and it was exceptionally sweet. Was it made by someone Lady Yu brought, or by someone from your family?”

The Pei family’s villa was quite large, with several guest courtyards each having their own small kitchen.

Eldest Lady Yang’s courtyard also had one, but if she needed a cook, she had to inform the Pei family’s steward. This meant she would have to make arrangements and get various people involved. She was only staying for a few days; although the Yang family wasn’t short of funds, she simply didn’t want to draw attention to herself.

Second Miss Pei noticed it too, but her relationship with Yu Tang was only average, and she didn’t know much about Yu Tang. Eldest Lady Yang was Young Master Yang’s stepsister, and their relationship wasn’t particularly good. Second Miss Pei was afraid that being too nice to Eldest Lady Yang would displease Young Master Yang, so her answer was somewhat perfunctory. “She must have brought someone herself, right? Such skill, even in my household, would be reserved for the madams of the household. We don’t even have someone like that in our branch household.”

Eldest Lady Yang remained somewhat skeptical.

Since she decided to stay in the Pei residence as a guest, she wouldn’t have come completely unprepared.

She had inquired earlier about Yu Tang.

The Yu family wasn’t a family with such capabilities.

The next day, while strolling around Bitter Nunnery waiting for the others, Eldest Lady Yang brought up the matter again and invited the Pei family’s young ladies as well, “Shall we go to Lady Yu’s place again for a bowl of chicken soup when we get back?”

Fourth Miss Pei clapped her hands in agreement, then asked Fifth Miss, puzzled, “Why did Grandmother think of having Sister Yu help her with the accounts? Sister Yu is unable to play with us much anymore!”

Fifth Miss wildly guessed, “It must be because Sister Yu is good at math. Isn’t her family in business? Business-minded people are usually quite good at math.”

Fourth Miss nodded in agreement.

Third Miss, seeing this, got both amused and exasperated. She pulled Fourth and Fifth Misses’ hands and chided, “Don’t talk nonsense. The sun is really strong today. Let’s go rest in the pavilion ahead.”

Fourth and Fifth Misses, with their attention diverted, ran off laughing.

Eldest Lady Yang, however, seemed pensive.

The sun was indeed quite strong today.

Yu Tang sat in the room, with two maids specially ordered by Qing Yuan to fan her. She felt uncomfortable as her back would perspire after a while as she worked with the abacus.

She stood up and opened the window to get some fresh air.

Pei Yan walked in.

He wore a plain, moon-white cloth robe, adorned only with a single bamboo hairpin in his hair. His face was pale and without any sign of perspiration, giving off a refreshing feeling.

As he approached, a faint, unidentifiable fragrance emanated from him, exuding an air of purity and cleanliness.

How could someone be so pristine?

Yu Tang thought with a touch of envy, just as Pei Yan raised the bamboo basket he was carrying and said, “Want to go fishing together?”

“Ah?!” Yu Tang’s eyes widened.

Just two days ago, Grand Madam Pei warned them not to go near the river, fearing they might fall in accidentally.

Pei Yan chuckled softly in her ear, enticing her. “Don’t be afraid, I can swim!”

His deep voice, like a lure, tugged at her heartstrings.

It took Yu Tang a while to process what he had said, and she asked hesitantly, “Will it be ok?”

“Why wouldn’t it be?” Pei Yan smiled mischievously at her. “You’ve already vetted through most of these account books.”

Yu Tang looked at the bright sun outside and suddenly remembered something. She quickly said, “It’s already this hot before the Dragon Boat Festival. Will this mean that the coming summer would be exceptionally hot? Does this mean that there would be a drought or something?”

At this time in her previous life, she had just married into the Li family. Madam Lin suddenly turned against her, and she was completely taken aback by it. She was busy dealing with the Li family’s affairs every day and paid little attention to the outside world. She vaguely remembered a severe drought in a county or prefecture, with many people fleeing to Lin’an.

The Pei family owned a lot of land; perhaps some of their estates would suffer.

Pei Yan laughed upon hearing this, saying, “I didn’t expect you could read the weather. Indeed, this year the Purple Star has moved westward, towards the fire deity, meaning there should be fires in the west. I’ll have the head of the estate keep an eye out.”

Yu Tang didn’t understand a word, awkwardly replying, “I was just speaking my thoughts aloud.”

“It seems your intuition is quite sharp,” Pei Yan continued to praise her. He placed the bamboo basket into her hands, saying, “Here, I’ll depend on you to catch them.”

Yu Tang only saw others fishing a few times from afar when she was little, when she went out with Yu Wen, and in paintings and calligraphy. Seeing that the bamboo basket looked quite new with the fragrance of fresh bamboo, she couldn’t help but hug it, saying, “Why are you depending on me to catch them? Are we going to use this bamboo basket to catch fish? I don’t know how!”

She didn’t want to either.

In those paintings, those people holding bamboo baskets were all standing barefoot in streams.

Images in paintings were drastically different from reality.

The streams in the paintings were crystal clear, but real streams were full of unfamiliar aquatic plants, fish, and insects—things she’d always been afraid of.

Pei Yan, upon seeing her face that seemed to be saying “I won’t do it,” found it particularly amusing. He burst into laughter, and seemingly out of nowhere, got a bamboo hat and placed it on her head, saying, “I’ll fish, you reel in the fish. Is that fair now? How many fishes we get depends on how many you manage to reel in!”

But she didn’t want to reel in the fish.

Fishes were stinky and slimy.

Wasn’t he supposed to be a fastidious person? Why wasn’t he being one now?

Yu Tang dragged her feet following behind Pei Yan, looking dejected, desperately racking her brains for a way to escape.

But even as they walked along the tree-lined path to a pavilion by a small river, she still didn’t come up with an escape plan, while Pei Yan was secretly laughing his head off.

He’d always found Yu Tang interesting, unlike the stereotypical ladies he knew, but after getting to know her, he discovered this dear girl was far more amusing than he imagined.

Just that adorable little face, puffed up like a steamed bun yet with her eyes frantically darting around—it was enough to make him laugh for a good half of the year.

“Here’s the spot!” he said casually, feigning a serious expression. “There are a lot more insects here so there will definitely be more fish!”

Then he saw Yu Tang secretly glare at him and nervously touch her arm.

It was truly hilarious!

Pei Yan instructed Ah-Ming, who followed them, “Take out the earthworms and hang them on the hook.”

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Delicate Flower – Chapter 307

Chapter 307 Old News

Pei Yan looked at Yu Tang, whose eyes were shining brightly, and chuckled softly.

Once his Yu Tang takes charge, things will be done according to her rules, and the Pei family will definitely undergo another major upheaval.

However, for now, let’s stick to the rules his mother set beforehand.

He stood up, pressed Yu Tang back into the armchair, and said, “Then stop making a fuss. Check if there are any errors in the accounts. If there aren’t, just hand them over.”

Yu Tang fumed in silence.

She felt this couldn’t go on.

But ultimately, this was a Pei family’s matter so she couldn’t criticize too much. It was best to listen to Pei Yan and check the numbers on the accounts.

Pei Yan, as if reading her mind, said gently, “You can’t go wrong by listening to me! As for your worries about Grand Madam’s intentions, don’t worry too much—if you understand, then do it; if you don’t, what else can you do?”

He finished speaking, shrugging with his hands spread open, looking particularly roguish, but Yu Tang felt inexplicably at ease and reassured.

She couldn’t help but smile.

Pei Yan couldn’t resist reaching out to stroke her smooth, dark hair, thinking to himself, ‘Just bear with it for now. Once you’re married, you can do whatever you like.’

This was the first time he had so clearly shown his affection for Yu Tang. Yu Tang was a little shy, but mostly happy.

She simply pretended not to have seen what he did, picked up the abacus again, and began to do the accounts.

The black abacus beads, the slender, snow-white fingers—the stark contrast made the ordinary, rough abacus appear even rougher, and her jade-like fingers looked even more delicate. Combined with Yu Tang’s skillful movements, the cold abacus beads danced rhythmically under her fingers like tamed children, a sight to behold.

Pei Yan was increasingly captivated, standing there for a long time. Only when Qing Yuan brought over the fruits did he snap out of his reverie, taking the plate from Qing Yuan and whispered, as if afraid of disturbing Yu Tang, “I’ll do it.”

Qing Yuan didn’t dare look up and tiptoed out.

Soon, Yu Tang finished calculating the entire account book.

Pei Yan smiled and asked her, “How is it?”

Yu Tang stood up, cracked her wrists, and said, “If the account books done by your accounting section still have errors, then your family’s accountant would have to be replaced.”

Pei Yan smiled and nodded, bringing a fruit platter to Yu Tang: “Try some, they are from our family’s estate.”

Yu Tang looked closely and noticed a few golden loquats among the cherries and plums.

She happily picked up a loquat, peeling it as she asked Pei Yan, “Why did you come here? Is something the matter?”

Pei Yan hesitated for a moment before finally deciding to tell the truth—lying was too troublesome; he would have to constantly cover up the lie.

“I came to see what you were doing.” He sat down next to Yu Tang, peeling loquats with her, and said, “How have you been these past few days? When will you finish reviewing these account books? Do you need my help?”

Yu Tang looked at the peeled loquats in her hand, wondering if she should politely offer some to Pei Yan first. She looked up and saw him intently peeling loquats with his eyes lowered, his profile handsome and dashing. Feeling a little embarrassed, she took a small bite herself and began telling Pei Yan about what had happened at the villa these past two days.

Seeing that Yu Tang seemed to really enjoy the loquats, Pei Yan had Qing Yuan bring in a small dish. He placed all the peeled loquats on it and handed it to Yu Tang.

Yu Tang felt somewhat awkward, yet also felt it was a rare opportunity for Pei Yan to do a simple chore. After pondering for a while, she smiled and thanked Pei Yan, eating the few loquats he peeled while they spoke.

Although only hushed conversations filled the room, the atmosphere was warm and intimate.

Qing Yuan and the others giggled quietly outside.

Grand Madam Pei, hearing this, also chuckled quietly and instructed Chen Daniang, “Take some mung bean soup to them, secretly, so no one sees it, lest Yu Tang be embarrassed and get uncomfortable in front of me.”

This was a bit of favoritism.

The mung beans were just harvested. They weren’t even available in the market yet, not even at Second Madam’s place, and she was already cooking them for Lady Yu.

Chen Daniang smiled and agreed, then went to cook the mung bean soup.

Unfortunately, the mung bean soup Grand Madam Pei instructed to make hadn’t been delivered yet, but Fourth and Fifth Misses, clutching bunches of wildflowers, excitedly ran into the hall, interrupting Pei Yan and Yu Tang’s time together.

“Third…Third Uncle!” The two girls stared dumbfounded at Yu Tang and Pei Yan, who were sitting side-by-side, their faces full of confusion.

Pei Yan frowned, unsure whether to scold the girls for their recklessness or the maidservant outside the door for her incompetence to stop them. His expression was quite unpleasant.

Yu Tang’s face flushed crimson. She jumped to her feet, her expression flustered and somewhat guilty looking. “I…we were looking at the accounts…” she stammered, then quickly regained her composure, preemptively asking, “Why are you here? Didn’t you say you were going to the back mountain to pick wild vegetables? Why are you carrying a bunch of wildflowers? What kind of flowers are these? Is there any significance to them?” She then pointed to the embroidered stool beside her. “It’s so hot. Why don’t you sit down and have some tea? I have some fine chrysanthemum buds and some pre-Qingming West Lake Longjing tea. What would you like to drink?”

They certainly wouldn’t dare to sit and drink with their third uncle, Pei Yan!

Fourth young lady muttered under her breath, shooting Yu Tang a meaningful look, signaling her to get Pei Yan out of here.

Pei Yan wanted to leave without her prompting anyway.

These two little girls have grown taller but lacked common sense. Now that they were here, it was impossible for him to have a private conversation with Yu Tang. Plus, the atmosphere was completely off.

He simply stood up and said, “Then I’ll be going. Since your accounts aren’t in a rush to be submitted, don’t hurry to organize them. Just check them a little bit each day, and finish by the deadline.”

Yu Tang, of course, couldn’t very well ask him to stay.

She lowered her head and saw Pei Yan out.

The two girls were overjoyed to see her. As soon as Pei Yan left, they immediately rushed forward, each grabbing one of Yu Tang’s arms, and pulled her towards the small garden outside the porch, saying, “Sister Yu, we have something urgent to tell you.”

Yu Tang didn’t want to dampen the girls’ spirits, so she smiled and followed them to the wicker chairs under the camphor trees in the garden. She had Liu Xu pour tea and asked them, “What’s so urgent that you two rushed over to see me?”

Fifth young lady was still a little shy, but fourth young lady chattered like a nightingale, “Sister Yu, do you know that Sister Gu’s brother, Minister Gu Chaoyang, is going to marry Lady Yin, Sister Xu’s sister-in-law?”

This, of course, was old news.

However, it was only relative to Yu Tang.

Speaking of which, Yu Tang personally participated in this matter too.

She helped decorate the Yin family’s new home.

“Yes, I know!” Yu Tang smiled and told the Fourth and Fifth Misses what she knew.

The two girls’ eyes lit up. One asked, “Does Sister Yu know that the Gu family is arguing among themselves?”

The other replied, “It has nothing to do with Sister Gu! It’s the eldest master of the Gu family and Sister Gu’s father, the second master of the Gu family, who are arguing!”

Yu Tang hadn’t heard of this.

She was somewhat surprised.

Fourth Miss spoke up before Fifth Miss could, “We heard it from Eldest Miss Yang, who heard it from her cousin. This cousin married into a branch of the Shen family, and her sister-in-law is a daughter of the Gu family’s eldest branch.”

The families of Jiangnan were indeed intricately connected and all related.

Yu Tang listened intently.

Fourth young lady said, “It’s said that Minister Gu and the Yin family are engaged, but they agreed that Lady Yin’s dowry would be managed by Lady Yin herself. If Lady Yin doesn’t have children or passes away before Minister Gu, Lady Yin’s dowry would have to be returned to the Yin family. The Gu family was furious when they heard this, especially the second master of the Gu family. He went straight to the eldest master of the Gu family and started arguing without giving any regard for appearances.”

Yu Tang knew about this. When she first heard about it, she also thought it was a bit excessive, but that was only compared to the Gu family’s social standing. In Jiangnan, it was customary to give generous dowries, and there were many agreements that were even more outrageous.

She felt it was a matter of mutual consent, so she tried to appease them, saying, “Presumably, the Yin family has their own concerns. Their daughters are known for their lavish dowries too.”

In Jiangnan, there have been cases of people murdering women for the sake of their dowries.

Fifth Miss waved her hands repeatedly, saying, “No, no. Sister Yu, you don’t know, Sister Gu’s father, the second master of the Gu family, embezzled Sister Gu’s mother’s dowry. Everyone in the Gu family knows about this, but they’re afraid of humiliation, so they have always kept it a secret from outsiders. Minister Gu’s father used the same trick again, causing humiliation all the way to the capital, which was why Minister Gu made this agreement with the Yin family, and why Eldest Master Gu had to personally step in to facilitate the marriage talks. But now, with second master Gu making such a fuss, it’s like the truth can’t be hidden anymore, and everyone knows about it.”

“The Gu family is pushed into the limelight again… She’s being gossiped about,” Fifth Miss said sympathetically. “I wonder how heartbroken Sister Gu will be when she finds out. Especially Eldest Aunt, who’s very proud. I wonder if she’ll look down on Lady Gu as her daughter-in-law.”

“She shouldn’t,” Fourth Miss said. “My eldest cousin is a reasonable man. Even if Eldest Aunt said something unpleasant, he’ll protect Sister Gu. At most, Sister Gu will just let the gossip go in one ear and out the other. Besides, Sister Gu won’t be marrying into our family anytime soon, so even if Eldest Aunt wants to say something, she has no one to turn to.”

Fifth Miss responded, “I just feel a little sorry for Sister Gu. She’s got such a stepmother, and now the Yin family’s dowry issue has come to light. Even though it’s not her fault, she’s still being gossiped about, which is upsetting.”

“Exactly.” Fourth Miss chimed in. “That’s why I think we should tell eldest cousin about this. He can send someone to deliver a message or something, to comfort Sister Gu. It’s a pity Sister Gu is about to marry into our family, otherwise, we could invite her to stay at the other courtyard for a while, to help her relax.”

Fifth Miss giggled, patting her. “Fourth Sister really misspoke,” she continued, “If Sister Gu wasn’t going to marry into our family, she wouldn’t have met Eldest Aunt, and without Eldest Aunt, there would be no need for my eldest cousin to comfort her. You have to admit defeat this time, right? Quickly give me that Maitreya Buddha statue you have on your dressing table.”

“See, after all this, you only want stuff from me,” the fourth young lady grumbled, the topic immediately veering off course. “You think everything I have is good.”

Yu Tang sat there listening to their bickering with a smile, but inwardly wondered, “Could this news be spread by Pei Yan?”

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