Chapter - 45
By Tea Time Translations
---
Sorry for the delay guys! Having existential crisis in outer space. Anyway Enjoy!
---
After leaving the palace, the two of them continued to sit together in a carriage, and Pei You'an continued to focus on the book in his hand.
Jiafu couldn't help herself, and her mind kept conjuring up the scene from earlier when Pei You'an was talking to the woman in the palace, Chi Hanzhen.
It appeared that on his way to pick her up, he had encountered this woman on her way out. From the timing, it seemed like they had been talking for a while by the time she arrived.
Jiafu was certain that he had looked at the woman with tenderness.
Although he had always treated her politely, she couldn't remember a time when he had looked at her with such affection. When he looked at her, he was either expressionless, scolding her, or giving her an indulgent smile.
Jiafu couldn't help but sneak another look at Pei You'an, who was sitting next to her. His eyelashes were slightly lowered, and his gaze was focused on the pages of the book, completely absorbed in it.
Jiafu's heart began to ache, and she felt a tinge of sadness. It was evident that the two of them knew each other from before. She had gone over this scenario in her mind multiple times.
When Chi Hanlin was made a government slave, Pei You'an had already left the capital. But Chi Hanlin had served in the Hanlin Academy for a long time and was a well-known scholar of calligraphy and painting. He had been the Prefect of the National University for many years. On the other hand, Pei You'an had a reputation for his talents and had passed the imperial examination at a young age. There must have been some interaction between Pei You'an and Chi Hanlin.
Since they have known each other, recognizing her was not surprising. One was a young scholar, and the other was a talented woman from a prestigious family. The more Jiafu thought about it, the more she felt that the two of them were a perfect match.
A thought suddenly crossed her mind. Could it be that in his past life, Pei You'an remained unmarried because he admired this woman in the palace, and she, due to her circumstances, was unwilling to return to secular life? Was that why he left the capital and ventured to the borderlands, ultimately leading to an early death from coughing up blood?
Jiafu couldn't help herself and turned to look at Pei You'an again, focusing on his elegantly sculpted profile.
Pei You'an continued to read his book but suddenly asked, "What's the matter?" His gaze remained on the pages of the book.
Jiafu was startled, her mouth hanging open briefly. She hesitated for a moment but ultimately shook her head and softly replied, "It's nothing." She turned her face away with a hint of frustration.
Pei You'an cast a sidelong glance at her and turned another page in his book. The two of them didn't exchange any words for the rest of the journey.
Upon returning to the Pei residence, Pei You'an took Jiafu to pay respects at the ancestral shrine and meet with various elder relatives. By evening, they had some free time. After they arrived in their room, Pei You'an changed into casual clothes and left without telling Jiafu where he was going.
The old lady, understanding that Jiafu had a tiring day, advised Pei You'an to rest early and not to serve her tonight.
She was indeed tired. The first night after their wedding was filled with emotions and not much sleep. The entire day had been busy, and she was finally able to relax.
But he had left again, leaving Jiafu feeling quite disheartened.
Pei You'an had just entered into marriage by imperial decree, and he had three days of rest. Furthermore, considering the time, it was already dark, and Jiafu didn't believe he had left for official business.
It could be a social gathering, or...
She had an instinctual feeling, perhaps connected to the girl she encountered in the morning.
Jiafu took a bath and changed into casual clothing, waiting for him in their room. As the night fell, he still hadn't returned. Jiafu lay on the bed, tossing and turning for a while. Eventually, she got up and decided to visit his study.
During their time in Wuding Manor, she noticed that Pei You'an had a habit of keeping multiple copies of the same book in different places for easy access.
Jiafu lit a candle and went to his study. After a brief search, she quickly found the copy of "Lunheng."
She took the book back to their room, seated herself at the bedside, and began reading by candlelight.
As she turned a few pages, she felt her eyelids growing heavy. The book was quite tedious. It discussed grand principles throughout, starting with profound wisdom and continuing with more profound wisdom. Essentially, it was all about the grand principles of heaven, earth, and mankind.
Jiafu forced herself to concentrate and began reading slowly, one word at a time. If he liked to read it, it must be good, and she wanted to read it too.
The night grew deeper, and Jiafu grew sleepier. Holding the book, she dozed off.
Around the hour of the pig (Haishi) (between 9 and 11 pm), Pei You'an returned home. He pushed the partially open door and found this scene.
Jiafu was leaning against the bedside, fast asleep. One arm dangled limply, and in her delicate, fair hand, she still held the book.
Pei You'an approached silently, reached the bed, and glanced at the book she held. It was the same book he had been reading during the day.
Her head was tilted, resting askew against the embroidered pillow. Her raven-black hair was disheveled, her rosy lips slightly pouting, and her long lashes trembled gently. She seemed to be dreaming, and her slumber bore a somewhat pitiable expression.
Pei You'an stood by the bed and silently observed her for a moment. Then he bent down, reached for the book, and brushed it lightly. Just then, her eyelashes twitched, and she opened her eyes, recognizing the figure by her bedside.
"Big cousin! You're back!" she exclaimed with delight. She immediately tossed off the covers, ready to get up.
Pei You'an took the book and placed it on a nearby table, saying, "You should rest. There's no need for you to attend to me."
Given his words, Jiafu thought better of it. Even if she wanted to serve him, she didn't have the courage to follow him inside. She knelt on the bed, watching his figure as he entered the bathroom.
After he came out, Jiafu mustered the courage to ask casually, "Husband, where did you go in the evening?"
"White Crane Pavilion," he replied offhandedly.
Jiafu's heart skipped a beat. Her intuition was eerily accurate. She didn't have the courage to ask him about the purpose of his visit to White Crane Pavilion. She could already imagine him engaging in a conversation with that young lady about poetry and art, sharing a connection with her.
She responded with a soft acknowledgment and then fell silent. Pei You'an seemed to be preoccupied with his own thoughts. He said, "You go to sleep first. I'm going to the study and will return later."
With that, he left. He didn't return until past midnight. Jiafu pretended to be asleep. He entered the room quietly and lay down on the bed, keeping his distance from her, separated by nearly half his body's width.
On the second night of their marriage, he didn't touch Jiafu, and the following afternoon, he went out again. During his absence, the wives of the Marquis of Zhu and the Marquis of Anyuan, who were close acquaintances, visited the Pei household. The elderly Madam naturally called the newlywed granddaughter-in-law to come and accompany the guests.
Jiafu felt her heart in turmoil. Her intuition told her that Pei You'an had visited White Crane Pavilion again. However, in front of the old Madam, she couldn't reveal any of her emotions.
When she smiled, her naturally curved eyes and the slight upturn at the corners of her red lips made her look both beautiful and sweet. The old Madam would say that having a cheerful person like her in the family could bring good luck. Therefore, as the ladies chatted and Jiafu accompanied them quietly, she maintained her obedient smile. Her cheeks slowly began to ache, but suddenly her heart skipped a beat.
The conversation turned to the recent attention-grabbing figure, Chi Hanzhen, the granddaughter of the Chi family.
Madam of the Marquis of Zhu spoke, "I heard that the Empress Dowager took pity on her and summoned her to the palace to discuss the matter of returning to secular life. However, she refused. She is truly a determined woman."
The Madam of Anyuan Marquis sighed, "Isn't that right? Her integrity was remarkable. Back then, not only among women, but even among men, how many could match her? Besides her good looks, she was also a talented woman. Her fate was unfortunate, entangled in the rebellion led by the rebellious prince."
The old Madam nodded, "In the imperial examination when You'an became a Jinshi, her grandfather, the Academician Chi, was one of the examiners. They had a teacher-student relationship. What a pity about that child. I also knew the old Taoist from White Crane Pavilion in the past. When I have some free time in a few days, I will visit."
The ladies praised the old Madam's kindness, and Jiafu gradually lost herself in thought. Later, she saw the guests off.
Pei You'an and Jiafu were newlyweds, and they hadn't set up a small kitchen in their courtyard yet. So, for the time being, they shared meals with the old Madam. As the night darkened, Pei You'an hadn't returned. Jiafu assisted the old Madam with her dinner. Since there were no outsiders present, they didn't strictly adhere to formalities. The old Madam allowed her to join the meal and inquired about Pei You'an.
Jiafu smiled and replied, "He went to visit friends."
The old Madam said, "That's what I thought. However, considering they just got married, he's returning quite late. I'll have a word with him when I see him."
Jiafu pretended to be a dutiful wife, serving soup to the old Madam, and sweetly said, "It's alright. He's a grown man, and it's natural for him to socialize."
The old Madam nodded, "Good child, you are indeed understanding. It's just that they are newlyweds, so he shouldn't leave you alone for too long. I'll have a talk with him. Tomorrow, when you return to your own home, wait for him to come back, and rest early in the evening to rejuvenate."
Jiafu agreed, finished her meal, and was sent back by the old Madam. Around the time of the evening curfew, Pei You'an finally returned.
He seemed quite busy, changed into different clothes upon his return, and then headed back to his study. Jiafu held back her turbulent emotions and personally went to the small kitchen beside the old Madam's room. She prepared a pigeon egg magnolia milk custard. The snow-white custard contained a few split pigeon eggs, and a few magnolia petals floated on top. The golden yellow and milk-white colors contrasted beautifully, and the aroma of the milk was delightful. This dessert was not only visually pleasing but also delicious. It had a poetic name, "Gold Resting in the Snow."
The key to this dessert was in the custard's texture. It required slow and gentle cooking. After preparing the dessert, Jiafu hurried back to her room, took a quick bath, and changed into a moonlight skirt. This skirt was made from ten different types of fabric, each with soft and fresh colors like pink, green, pale yellow, and pink. The fabrics were carefully blended and gathered at the waist. As she moved, the skirt swayed with her steps, resembling moonlight shimmering on a pond, with sparkling and delicate beauty. This was why it was called the "Moonlight Skirt."
Jiafu asked Tan Xiang to help her create an enchanting floral bun hairstyle. She lightly applied some makeup and looked at herself in the mirror. With her radiant beauty, she personally prepared the meal and sent it to his study.
Pei You'an had his back turned to her, standing in front of the bookshelf, engrossed in a thick book. He heard Jiafu's voice but didn't turn around, simply saying, "You can leave it there. You've gone to so much trouble."
Jiafu placed the meal down, feeling somewhat dissatisfied. She stood by the side and added, "Husband, please remember to eat while it's hot. It won't taste as good once it gets cold."
Pei You'an finally turned around, and his gaze fell on her, but just for a moment. He quickly averted his eyes and said, "I know. I'll eat it later. You can go and rest. You don't need to wait for me; I have some matters to attend to."
After he spoke, he didn't turn around again.
Jiafu felt helpless and silently left the study. She returned to her bedroom, undressed, and decided not to wait for him in frustration. She climbed into bed by herself.
He returned late at night, just like the previous night.
Jiafu pretended to be asleep, and he didn't disturb her again. Her heart was in turmoil, and she couldn't sleep well that night. The next morning, she had slight dark circles under her eyes. Afraid of looking disheveled when returning to her own home, she applied several layers of powder, finished her preparations, and then accompanied Pei You'an as they rode in the carriage back to her family's house.
Meng Shi was eagerly anticipating the arrival of her daughter, who had just been married. Since Meng Shi was still in the capital city, she warmly welcomed Pei You'an and Jiafu. Pei You'an wore a smile on his face and was extremely respectful. Seeing her daughter with her ideal husband, Meng Shi was content. She provided a lavish meal, and after they had eaten, it was time for them to leave. However, Meng Shi was reluctant to part with them. Pei You'an kindly suggested, "Mother-in-law, let Ah Fu stay a while longer. It so happens I have some matters to attend to. You two can talk, and I will return later to accompany her back home."
After a while, Meng Shi had to return to Quanzhou, leaving less time for her to spend with her daughter. Hearing Pei You'an's considerate words, she was delighted and appreciative of her son-in-law's thoughtfulness. She personally saw him off to the gate and, upon returning, engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Jiafu.
However, Jiafu's mind was elsewhere. They had a conversation without any special meaning. When the afternoon came, Meng Shi stood up, stating that she would have some snacks prepared for Jiafu. Jiafu didn't have much appetite, so she suggested, "Mother, I have to be back at home in the afternoon. My grandmother expected me back for lunch, and my husband is not certain when he'll return. It's better if I head back first. When he returns, you can inform him, and he'll come to get me."
Meng Shi thought about it and agreed, saying, "Serving your grandmother is important. You should return first. I'll have Zhang Da escort you."
Jiafu smiled and accepted the offer. Meng Shi saw her daughter off and made sure Zhang Da would accompany her back to the Duke's residence. Upon arriving at the usual entrance, Jiafu was helped down from the carriage by Liu Mama. She went inside and stopped her steps after waiting for Zhang Da to leave. Once he was gone, she exited and got back into the carriage. She instructed the coachman to head to White Crane Monastery.
Jiafu had arrived at White Crane Monastery with Liu Mama and Tan Xiang. The monastery's gate was wide open, with female Daoist disciples going about their business, carrying incense bags and moving in and out.
Jiafu had rushed here in anger but now felt lost, not knowing how to proceed. Going in to look for someone would be undignified and beneath her status. Asking Liu Mama to go in would also entail explaining the reason, which she wished to avoid revealing to anyone.
As Jiafu pondered her options, she decided to wait outside for Pei You'an to come out. Liu Mama and Tan Xiang were puzzled by her actions but followed her lead, remaining in the carriage. The sun gradually began to set, and the flow of people entering and exiting the monastery dwindled. Jiafu peered out from the window, her eyes growing tired, but there was still no sign of Pei You'an. Considering he had returned late the previous nights, she suspected he was still inside, yet she couldn't wait until nightfall to leave. Liu Mama kept inquiring, and Jiafu felt anxious, like a cat on hot bricks.
Jiafu's patience was wearing thin after staring at the monastery's gate for a whole afternoon. She was exhausted and frustrated. She also considered that if she didn't leave soon, she might face more questions at home about her whereabouts.
"My dear lady, you've been staring at that monastery gate for an entire afternoon! You've nearly worn your eyes out! What are you looking for? It's getting dark, and if you don't leave soon, you'll have to answer even more questions when you get home!" Liu Mama urged impatiently.
Jiafu, her eyes brimming with tears, had little strength left as she whispered, "Let's go."
Liu Mama, feeling sorry for Jiafu's frustration, was about to tell the carriage driver to turn back. Just as she was going to give the command, they heard the voice of the carriage driver from outside. He said, "Young Master?!"
Jiafu's heart leaped, and before she could sit up properly, she heard the carriage door being pushed open. She turned to see Pei You'an standing at the carriage entrance, his gaze fixed on her.
Jiafu was frozen in place. Liu Mama and Tan Xiang exchanged glances and quickly understood. They stood up and moved to leave the carriage.
Pei You'an said calmly, "You two, get out."
His words were directed at Liu Mama and Tan Xiang. His tone was composed, yet it carried a subtle command. Both of them didn't dare to defy his order and responded, "Yes," before hastily exiting the carriage.
Pei You'an entered the carriage and closed the door. The carriage moved forward, carrying the two of them.
Chapter - 45
By Tea Time Translations
---
Sorry for the delay guys! Having existential crisis in outer space. Anyway Enjoy!
---
After leaving the palace, the two of them continued to sit together in a carriage, and Pei You'an continued to focus on the book in his hand.
Jiafu couldn't help herself, and her mind kept conjuring up the scene from earlier when Pei You'an was talking to the woman in the palace, Chi Hanzhen.
It appeared that on his way to pick her up, he had encountered this woman on her way out. From the timing, it seemed like they had been talking for a while by the time she arrived.
Jiafu was certain that he had looked at the woman with tenderness.
Although he had always treated her politely, she couldn't remember a time when he had looked at her with such affection. When he looked at her, he was either expressionless, scolding her, or giving her an indulgent smile.
Jiafu couldn't help but sneak another look at Pei You'an, who was sitting next to her. His eyelashes were slightly lowered, and his gaze was focused on the pages of the book, completely absorbed in it.
Jiafu's heart began to ache, and she felt a tinge of sadness. It was evident that the two of them knew each other from before. She had gone over this scenario in her mind multiple times.
When Chi Hanlin was made a government slave, Pei You'an had already left the capital. But Chi Hanlin had served in the Hanlin Academy for a long time and was a well-known scholar of calligraphy and painting. He had been the Prefect of the National University for many years. On the other hand, Pei You'an had a reputation for his talents and had passed the imperial examination at a young age. There must have been some interaction between Pei You'an and Chi Hanlin.
Since they have known each other, recognizing her was not surprising. One was a young scholar, and the other was a talented woman from a prestigious family. The more Jiafu thought about it, the more she felt that the two of them were a perfect match.
A thought suddenly crossed her mind. Could it be that in his past life, Pei You'an remained unmarried because he admired this woman in the palace, and she, due to her circumstances, was unwilling to return to secular life? Was that why he left the capital and ventured to the borderlands, ultimately leading to an early death from coughing up blood?
Jiafu couldn't help herself and turned to look at Pei You'an again, focusing on his elegantly sculpted profile.
Pei You'an continued to read his book but suddenly asked, "What's the matter?" His gaze remained on the pages of the book.
Jiafu was startled, her mouth hanging open briefly. She hesitated for a moment but ultimately shook her head and softly replied, "It's nothing." She turned her face away with a hint of frustration.
Pei You'an cast a sidelong glance at her and turned another page in his book. The two of them didn't exchange any words for the rest of the journey.
Upon returning to the Pei residence, Pei You'an took Jiafu to pay respects at the ancestral shrine and meet with various elder relatives. By evening, they had some free time. After they arrived in their room, Pei You'an changed into casual clothes and left without telling Jiafu where he was going.
The old lady, understanding that Jiafu had a tiring day, advised Pei You'an to rest early and not to serve her tonight.
She was indeed tired. The first night after their wedding was filled with emotions and not much sleep. The entire day had been busy, and she was finally able to relax.
But he had left again, leaving Jiafu feeling quite disheartened.
Pei You'an had just entered into marriage by imperial decree, and he had three days of rest. Furthermore, considering the time, it was already dark, and Jiafu didn't believe he had left for official business.
It could be a social gathering, or...
She had an instinctual feeling, perhaps connected to the girl she encountered in the morning.
Jiafu took a bath and changed into casual clothing, waiting for him in their room. As the night fell, he still hadn't returned. Jiafu lay on the bed, tossing and turning for a while. Eventually, she got up and decided to visit his study.
During their time in Wuding Manor, she noticed that Pei You'an had a habit of keeping multiple copies of the same book in different places for easy access.
Jiafu lit a candle and went to his study. After a brief search, she quickly found the copy of "Lunheng."
She took the book back to their room, seated herself at the bedside, and began reading by candlelight.
As she turned a few pages, she felt her eyelids growing heavy. The book was quite tedious. It discussed grand principles throughout, starting with profound wisdom and continuing with more profound wisdom. Essentially, it was all about the grand principles of heaven, earth, and mankind.
Jiafu forced herself to concentrate and began reading slowly, one word at a time. If he liked to read it, it must be good, and she wanted to read it too.
The night grew deeper, and Jiafu grew sleepier. Holding the book, she dozed off.
Around the hour of the pig (Haishi) (between 9 and 11 pm), Pei You'an returned home. He pushed the partially open door and found this scene.
Jiafu was leaning against the bedside, fast asleep. One arm dangled limply, and in her delicate, fair hand, she still held the book.
Pei You'an approached silently, reached the bed, and glanced at the book she held. It was the same book he had been reading during the day.
Her head was tilted, resting askew against the embroidered pillow. Her raven-black hair was disheveled, her rosy lips slightly pouting, and her long lashes trembled gently. She seemed to be dreaming, and her slumber bore a somewhat pitiable expression.
Pei You'an stood by the bed and silently observed her for a moment. Then he bent down, reached for the book, and brushed it lightly. Just then, her eyelashes twitched, and she opened her eyes, recognizing the figure by her bedside.
"Big cousin! You're back!" she exclaimed with delight. She immediately tossed off the covers, ready to get up.
Pei You'an took the book and placed it on a nearby table, saying, "You should rest. There's no need for you to attend to me."
Given his words, Jiafu thought better of it. Even if she wanted to serve him, she didn't have the courage to follow him inside. She knelt on the bed, watching his figure as he entered the bathroom.
After he came out, Jiafu mustered the courage to ask casually, "Husband, where did you go in the evening?"
"White Crane Pavilion," he replied offhandedly.
Jiafu's heart skipped a beat. Her intuition was eerily accurate. She didn't have the courage to ask him about the purpose of his visit to White Crane Pavilion. She could already imagine him engaging in a conversation with that young lady about poetry and art, sharing a connection with her.
She responded with a soft acknowledgment and then fell silent. Pei You'an seemed to be preoccupied with his own thoughts. He said, "You go to sleep first. I'm going to the study and will return later."
With that, he left. He didn't return until past midnight. Jiafu pretended to be asleep. He entered the room quietly and lay down on the bed, keeping his distance from her, separated by nearly half his body's width.
On the second night of their marriage, he didn't touch Jiafu, and the following afternoon, he went out again. During his absence, the wives of the Marquis of Zhu and the Marquis of Anyuan, who were close acquaintances, visited the Pei household. The elderly Madam naturally called the newlywed granddaughter-in-law to come and accompany the guests.
Jiafu felt her heart in turmoil. Her intuition told her that Pei You'an had visited White Crane Pavilion again. However, in front of the old Madam, she couldn't reveal any of her emotions.
When she smiled, her naturally curved eyes and the slight upturn at the corners of her red lips made her look both beautiful and sweet. The old Madam would say that having a cheerful person like her in the family could bring good luck. Therefore, as the ladies chatted and Jiafu accompanied them quietly, she maintained her obedient smile. Her cheeks slowly began to ache, but suddenly her heart skipped a beat.
The conversation turned to the recent attention-grabbing figure, Chi Hanzhen, the granddaughter of the Chi family.
Madam of the Marquis of Zhu spoke, "I heard that the Empress Dowager took pity on her and summoned her to the palace to discuss the matter of returning to secular life. However, she refused. She is truly a determined woman."
The Madam of Anyuan Marquis sighed, "Isn't that right? Her integrity was remarkable. Back then, not only among women, but even among men, how many could match her? Besides her good looks, she was also a talented woman. Her fate was unfortunate, entangled in the rebellion led by the rebellious prince."
The old Madam nodded, "In the imperial examination when You'an became a Jinshi, her grandfather, the Academician Chi, was one of the examiners. They had a teacher-student relationship. What a pity about that child. I also knew the old Taoist from White Crane Pavilion in the past. When I have some free time in a few days, I will visit."
The ladies praised the old Madam's kindness, and Jiafu gradually lost herself in thought. Later, she saw the guests off.
Pei You'an and Jiafu were newlyweds, and they hadn't set up a small kitchen in their courtyard yet. So, for the time being, they shared meals with the old Madam. As the night darkened, Pei You'an hadn't returned. Jiafu assisted the old Madam with her dinner. Since there were no outsiders present, they didn't strictly adhere to formalities. The old Madam allowed her to join the meal and inquired about Pei You'an.
Jiafu smiled and replied, "He went to visit friends."
The old Madam said, "That's what I thought. However, considering they just got married, he's returning quite late. I'll have a word with him when I see him."
Jiafu pretended to be a dutiful wife, serving soup to the old Madam, and sweetly said, "It's alright. He's a grown man, and it's natural for him to socialize."
The old Madam nodded, "Good child, you are indeed understanding. It's just that they are newlyweds, so he shouldn't leave you alone for too long. I'll have a talk with him. Tomorrow, when you return to your own home, wait for him to come back, and rest early in the evening to rejuvenate."
Jiafu agreed, finished her meal, and was sent back by the old Madam. Around the time of the evening curfew, Pei You'an finally returned.
He seemed quite busy, changed into different clothes upon his return, and then headed back to his study. Jiafu held back her turbulent emotions and personally went to the small kitchen beside the old Madam's room. She prepared a pigeon egg magnolia milk custard. The snow-white custard contained a few split pigeon eggs, and a few magnolia petals floated on top. The golden yellow and milk-white colors contrasted beautifully, and the aroma of the milk was delightful. This dessert was not only visually pleasing but also delicious. It had a poetic name, "Gold Resting in the Snow."
The key to this dessert was in the custard's texture. It required slow and gentle cooking. After preparing the dessert, Jiafu hurried back to her room, took a quick bath, and changed into a moonlight skirt. This skirt was made from ten different types of fabric, each with soft and fresh colors like pink, green, pale yellow, and pink. The fabrics were carefully blended and gathered at the waist. As she moved, the skirt swayed with her steps, resembling moonlight shimmering on a pond, with sparkling and delicate beauty. This was why it was called the "Moonlight Skirt."
Jiafu asked Tan Xiang to help her create an enchanting floral bun hairstyle. She lightly applied some makeup and looked at herself in the mirror. With her radiant beauty, she personally prepared the meal and sent it to his study.
Pei You'an had his back turned to her, standing in front of the bookshelf, engrossed in a thick book. He heard Jiafu's voice but didn't turn around, simply saying, "You can leave it there. You've gone to so much trouble."
Jiafu placed the meal down, feeling somewhat dissatisfied. She stood by the side and added, "Husband, please remember to eat while it's hot. It won't taste as good once it gets cold."
Pei You'an finally turned around, and his gaze fell on her, but just for a moment. He quickly averted his eyes and said, "I know. I'll eat it later. You can go and rest. You don't need to wait for me; I have some matters to attend to."
After he spoke, he didn't turn around again.
Jiafu felt helpless and silently left the study. She returned to her bedroom, undressed, and decided not to wait for him in frustration. She climbed into bed by herself.
He returned late at night, just like the previous night.
Jiafu pretended to be asleep, and he didn't disturb her again. Her heart was in turmoil, and she couldn't sleep well that night. The next morning, she had slight dark circles under her eyes. Afraid of looking disheveled when returning to her own home, she applied several layers of powder, finished her preparations, and then accompanied Pei You'an as they rode in the carriage back to her family's house.
Meng Shi was eagerly anticipating the arrival of her daughter, who had just been married. Since Meng Shi was still in the capital city, she warmly welcomed Pei You'an and Jiafu. Pei You'an wore a smile on his face and was extremely respectful. Seeing her daughter with her ideal husband, Meng Shi was content. She provided a lavish meal, and after they had eaten, it was time for them to leave. However, Meng Shi was reluctant to part with them. Pei You'an kindly suggested, "Mother-in-law, let Ah Fu stay a while longer. It so happens I have some matters to attend to. You two can talk, and I will return later to accompany her back home."
After a while, Meng Shi had to return to Quanzhou, leaving less time for her to spend with her daughter. Hearing Pei You'an's considerate words, she was delighted and appreciative of her son-in-law's thoughtfulness. She personally saw him off to the gate and, upon returning, engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Jiafu.
However, Jiafu's mind was elsewhere. They had a conversation without any special meaning. When the afternoon came, Meng Shi stood up, stating that she would have some snacks prepared for Jiafu. Jiafu didn't have much appetite, so she suggested, "Mother, I have to be back at home in the afternoon. My grandmother expected me back for lunch, and my husband is not certain when he'll return. It's better if I head back first. When he returns, you can inform him, and he'll come to get me."
Meng Shi thought about it and agreed, saying, "Serving your grandmother is important. You should return first. I'll have Zhang Da escort you."
Jiafu smiled and accepted the offer. Meng Shi saw her daughter off and made sure Zhang Da would accompany her back to the Duke's residence. Upon arriving at the usual entrance, Jiafu was helped down from the carriage by Liu Mama. She went inside and stopped her steps after waiting for Zhang Da to leave. Once he was gone, she exited and got back into the carriage. She instructed the coachman to head to White Crane Monastery.
Jiafu had arrived at White Crane Monastery with Liu Mama and Tan Xiang. The monastery's gate was wide open, with female Daoist disciples going about their business, carrying incense bags and moving in and out.
Jiafu had rushed here in anger but now felt lost, not knowing how to proceed. Going in to look for someone would be undignified and beneath her status. Asking Liu Mama to go in would also entail explaining the reason, which she wished to avoid revealing to anyone.
As Jiafu pondered her options, she decided to wait outside for Pei You'an to come out. Liu Mama and Tan Xiang were puzzled by her actions but followed her lead, remaining in the carriage. The sun gradually began to set, and the flow of people entering and exiting the monastery dwindled. Jiafu peered out from the window, her eyes growing tired, but there was still no sign of Pei You'an. Considering he had returned late the previous nights, she suspected he was still inside, yet she couldn't wait until nightfall to leave. Liu Mama kept inquiring, and Jiafu felt anxious, like a cat on hot bricks.
Jiafu's patience was wearing thin after staring at the monastery's gate for a whole afternoon. She was exhausted and frustrated. She also considered that if she didn't leave soon, she might face more questions at home about her whereabouts.
"My dear lady, you've been staring at that monastery gate for an entire afternoon! You've nearly worn your eyes out! What are you looking for? It's getting dark, and if you don't leave soon, you'll have to answer even more questions when you get home!" Liu Mama urged impatiently.
Jiafu, her eyes brimming with tears, had little strength left as she whispered, "Let's go."
Liu Mama, feeling sorry for Jiafu's frustration, was about to tell the carriage driver to turn back. Just as she was going to give the command, they heard the voice of the carriage driver from outside. He said, "Young Master?!"
Jiafu's heart leaped, and before she could sit up properly, she heard the carriage door being pushed open. She turned to see Pei You'an standing at the carriage entrance, his gaze fixed on her.
Jiafu was frozen in place. Liu Mama and Tan Xiang exchanged glances and quickly understood. They stood up and moved to leave the carriage.
Pei You'an said calmly, "You two, get out."
His words were directed at Liu Mama and Tan Xiang. His tone was composed, yet it carried a subtle command. Both of them didn't dare to defy his order and responded, "Yes," before hastily exiting the carriage.
Pei You'an entered the carriage and closed the door. The carriage moved forward, carrying the two of them.
