novelraw Chapter 153
Chapter 153
Hearing that Chu Chengyun hadn't come, Qi Ming was somewhat surprised.
In fact, Commander Ye also felt something was amiss.
He had followed Chu Chengyun from the Prince Duan residence, accompanying him when he left the Capital and when he returned. Because of his simple background and unwavering loyalty, he had always been one of Chu Chengyun's top guards.
Now that Chu Chengyun had ascended the throne, Commander Ye was undoubtedly a trusted imperial minister.
Although Commander Ye, coming from a military background, couldn't match those civil officials in court wisdom, he understood the relationship between Chu Chengyun and Qi Ming exceptionally well.
Rather than brothers, they were more like teacher and student.
After leaving the Capital, during Chu Chengyun's most idle period, he had encountered Qi Ming who seemed to fall from the sky. Perhaps initially it was due to boredom, but later, Chu Chengyun appreciated Qi Ming's persistence and learning, and also liked the occasional innocent remarks from this usually serious young man.
On the path of imperial examinations, Chu Chengyun had helped him greatly.
Especially after arriving in the Capital, Qi Ming didn't understand the city, nor did he know how to write essays and answer questions after reaching the metropolitan examination. Chu Chengyun had told him all these things bit by bit.
Though they called each other sworn brothers, essentially Qi Ming was a disciple brought up by Chu Chengyun. Now that his disciple had finally reached the day of result announcements, yet Chu Chengyun hadn't come to see, this was indeed strange.
Unless Qi Ming hadn't passed.
Thinking this, Commander Ye's eyes showed some sympathy.
As emperor, Chu Chengyun could naturally know the results of the metropolitan examination earlier.
Commander Ye understood his imperial master's temperament too well. He was still young, and naturally wanted returns on matters he invested emotion in.
If Qi Ming hadn't passed, Chu Chengyun probably would never meet with him privately again in the future.
But this was the metropolitan examination, where thousands competed for only 300 spots. Very few could pass on their first attempt.
Qi Ming hadn't noticed the change in Commander Ye's expression. He was just somewhat regretful yet understanding, "Please, Elder Brother Ye, help me pass along a message. I hope my sworn brother won't overwork himself. His health is important."
Commander Ye nodded without speaking, escorting Qi Ming all the way to see the results.
But what Commander Ye didn't know was that Chu Chengyun hadn't looked at the examination results early, and had gone to the Empress's palace chambers early in the morning.
Empress Meng, leaning against the headboard, coughed lightly twice and smiled at Chu Chengyun, "Husband needn't worry, I'm quite well."
Chu Chengyun gripped Empress Meng's hand and remained silent for a long while.
This imperial throne wasn't something Chu Chengyun truly wanted to occupy, but for himself and for the people of the realm, he had no choice but to sit on it. Now that he had secured his position, the new emperor particularly missed his previous carefree days.
So he treasured Qi Ming who could still cheerfully call him sworn brother, and cherished Empress Meng who still called him husband.
If it were before, Chu Chengyun would certainly comfort her well without probing deeply, but this time he said softly, "Hui Niang, tell me the truth. Has someone been giving you grief?"
Empress Meng pursed her lips and didn't speak.
She heard Chu Chengyun continue, "No need to hide for them. I'll know eventually anyway."
Empress Meng then didn't conceal from him, saying gently, "It really has nothing to do with others, husband. I've just caught a cold and need some rest. It's nothing serious."
Hearing this, Chu Chengyun didn't ask further, just moved over to gently embrace Empress Meng, though he didn't believe her words.
Empress Meng, probably to ease his mind, smiled and leaned on his shoulder, her voice gentle, "After the palace examination is over, we'll arrange Princess Huaning's marriage. This will be the first joyous occasion since husband's ascension, so it must be celebrated grandly."
Hearing this, Chu Chengyun also smiled, "Naturally. This little tyrant is finally getting married. I must prepare ten li of red silk for her. Hui Niang, have people select good-natured servants for her."
Empress Meng smiled and nodded.
Chu Chengyun kissed her cheek, chatted a bit more, then got up to leave.
When leaving, he noticed the Auspicious Flowers placed on the side table. For a moment he couldn't identify the variety, but Chu Chengyun had matters on his mind and seemed hurried, so he didn't have time to ask more.
After he left, Princess Huaning peeked out from behind the screen, pouting slightly, "Imperial Brother only knows how to speak ill of me behind my back."
Empress Meng smiled and beckoned her over to sit, then said, "He's genuinely happy for you. Didn't you see that he personally selected all the furnishings for the Princess residence? Don't worry, when your wedding comes, it will surely be the talk of the Capital."
Princess Huaning smiled first, then asked, "Won't it seem too extravagant?"
Empress Meng was perceptive and observant, naturally seeing that Princess Huaning wasn't truly concerned about saving the national treasury, but worried that such a grand wedding would embarrass Commander Ye.
Marrying a princess was an opportunity others could only dream of, but Commander Ye had no foundation and was a military man. If people thought he was henpecked at home, basking in the princess's glory, it might damage his reputation.
Though she understood, Empress Meng didn't point this out directly, instead saying gently, "Now that the country is prosperous and the people strong, His Majesty is gradually consolidating power. Though previous wars have somewhat depleted the treasury, your wedding is also an opportunity to proclaim His Majesty's benevolence to the people. Whether you like it or not, it must be celebrated grandly."
Only then did Princess Huaning nod with a smile and agree, then stopped discussing this matter and said, "About the flowers Jiao Niang had me bring earlier, Sister-in-law, have you kept them alive?"
Empress Meng had someone bring the flowerpot and place it on the nearby low table.
She reached out, her pale fingertips gently touching the bright red flowers, saying softly, "Jiao Niang had given me these flowers before. I brought them to the Capital, but unfortunately during your eldest Imperial Brother's rebellion and palace coup, in the chaos the flowerpot broke and couldn't be saved. Now having a new one brightens this room considerably."
Hearing this, Princess Huaning couldn't help but look at Empress Meng.
Previously, several imperial brothers had all been pressuring Chu Chengyun, wishing him dead. Although Chu Chengyun ultimately inherited the throne, the dangers involved were probably known only to the couple themselves.
This made Princess Huaning particularly understand Chu Chengyun's previous decision to delay taking consorts.
But now beauties sent from various regions had all arrived in the Capital, and many court officials' daughters frequently found excuses to promote their reputations. Even some noblewomen with imperial patents requested audiences with Empress Meng, their intentions clear.
Now that Empress Meng was bedridden with illness, it was probably because she was being pressured too urgently and had no recourse.
Princess Huaning couldn't help asking, "Sister-in-law, do you believe?"
Empress Meng looked at her and smiled, "Believe what?"
"Do you believe Imperial Brother can truly stand up for you and refuse concubines?"
Empress Meng didn't speak, but her heart was calm.
Having been married to Chu Chengyun for years, she understood his temperament better than anyone. Her earlier silence was because as empress she couldn't be willful, but she knew Chu Chengyun would immediately root out those who found daily excuses to pressure her and punish them severely.
As for whether to take consorts, Empress Meng was obviously much calmer than Princess Huaning, "I shouldn't believe, but... as long as he remains my husband, I'll believe."
Princess Huaning stared at Empress Meng for a while, knowing her words had deeper meaning, but said nothing more. She turned to discussing the Auspicious Flowers Ye Jiao had sent, and the atmosphere became harmonious.
Outside the hall, Chu Chengyun sat in the imperial palanquin, his brow slightly furrowed, asking in a low voice, "Besides myself and Princess Huaning, who else has seen the Empress recently?"
"Your Majesty, only the wife of the Privy Council Direct Scholar has submitted a request card."
Privy Council Direct Scholar, another of this rank. It seemed this newly appointed one hadn't learned from his predecessor's demotion.
Chu Chengyun said nothing more, just made a mental note of these two, then asked, "Has General Ye returned?"
"Your Majesty, General Ye has not yet entered the palace."
Chu Chengyun nodded and sat in the imperial palanquin with his eyes slightly closed, saying nothing more.
At the Imperial Academy, crowds had already gathered, with people coming to see the results packed together.
Commander Ye didn't follow closely but stood outside watching from afar. Only Qi Ming pulled Liu Si forward to squeeze through.
Liu Si looked around and asked somewhat puzzled, "Th-third Young Master, aren't they all here to see results? Why are there so many officials' sedan chairs and carriages outside?"
Hearing this, Qi Ming glanced around briefly and hesitated, "Maybe... their families also have candidates, so they're accompanying them here to see."
Liu Si nodded as if understanding, then didn't waste time and followed Qi Ming forward through the crowd.
Usually Liu Si was timid with a small frame, but for his Third Young Master he always went all out. Though he had a small build, once in the crowd he worked hard to protect Qi Ming from being jostled.
Qi Ming also protected him, pulling Liu Si close so he wouldn't be separated by the crowd.
But even so, the two couldn't squeeze to the front immediately. Liu Si regretted not bringing more servants from the residence to save Third Young Master from this suffering.
Qi Ming stood on his toes trying to see ahead, but still couldn't make anything out.
Liu Si was also anxious, "Th-th-third Young Master, why c-can't I see anything?"
If it were usual times, Qi Ming wouldn't be anxious. He would even avoid crowded places, always preferring his own peace and quiet. Recent days wandering around Qi Yun's shops had given Qi Ming more experience and composure.
But now, seeing his future prospects written right there, so close yet unclear, naturally made him anxious!
However, even so, Qi Ming could still comfort Liu Si kindly, "Don't worry, I can't see either. You're shorter than me, so naturally you can't see."
Liu Si responded glumly, looking up at the people around him who were all taller, feeling dejected.
At this moment, Qi Ming saw the composed Wen Liu Lang in the distance.
Unlike Qi Ming's anxiety, Wen Liu Lang appeared confident of victory, fanning himself while standing outside the crowd.
Qi Ming looked at him strangely, really not understanding why he was waving a fan when it was still cold.
But he didn't approach. Since Wen Liu Lang had mocked Liu Si, Qi Ming had lost interest in him.
But Wen Liu Lang spotted him and showed a smile, greeting him, "Isn't this Third Brother? How is it, can you see your name? My servant is right in front. Shall I have him help you look?"
Although Qi Ming had already distanced himself mentally, the more distant someone was, the more surface politeness was required. Qi Ming returned the smile, "Haven't seen it yet. No need to trouble Brother Wen."
What he meant by "haven't seen it" was that there were too many people in front, so crowded that he couldn't see anyone's name, let alone his own.
But to Wen Liu Lang's ears, this meant Qi Ming hadn't passed and couldn't find his name.
Wen Liu Lang smiled inwardly while showing some regret on his face, "It doesn't matter, you're still young. Waiting another three years is the same."
Qi Ming was stunned, realizing Wen Liu Lang had misunderstood.
But he didn't explain, since he didn't know the results himself, and Wen Liu Lang was now a stranger to him.
Third Master Qi pulled Liu Si to try squeezing inside again, but the two lacked strength to push through effectively.
Just then, someone stood behind them, taking one in each hand and protecting them as they moved forward.
Qi Ming was startled and looked up to see Commander Ye with his chin darkened.
Commander Ye hadn't been as casual as last time, but had blackened his chin beforehand to hide his identity.
Previously when accompanying Chu Chengyun, the entrance was mostly filled with women and servants waiting for the academy to open to greet candidates. Housewives with servants and women usually didn't recognize him, so Commander Ye could get by with just covering his face. But this time was different, with many court officials among those watching the results, and meeting them would expose him.
So Commander Ye had modified his appearance slightly before coming forward to help Qi Ming and Liu Si squeeze to the front.
"Thank you, Elder Brother Ye." Qi Ming bowed in thanks, then looked up at the densely packed examination results.
On this board were 300 names, posted on the wall in front of the Imperial Academy.
Those who made this list had passed the metropolitan examination, graduating from Recommended Men to Metropolitan Graduates, and most importantly, everyone listed could participate in the palace examination in several days to compete for Presented Scholar status!
This long wall didn't look like a cold, lifeless barrier, but like the dragon gate that carp needed to leap over.
These 300 Metropolitan Graduates were like golden carp who, after years or even decades of struggle, could finally leap over. Each was precious beyond measure.
Qi Ming controlled his emotions, trying to calmly scan from the beginning to look for his name.
But there were simply too many names, making his eyes dizzy just looking for his own.
Just as he reached the third row, he heard Liu Si's excited voice, "Third Young Master, I see you! You passed, you passed!"
At these words, Qi Ming froze. Commander Ye and Wen Liu Lang, both convinced Qi Ming's name wouldn't be on the list, also stared wide-eyed.
But Liu Si ignored them, just shaking Qi Ming's arm and pointing, "Third Young Master, look, right here, Qi Ming, your name!"
Qi Ming quickly looked where he pointed and indeed saw his own name in the bottom right corner of the board.
Number 264, Qi Ming, followed by his native place...
264 - this was the first time Qi Ming had ranked outside the top 200. Given his previous Minor Triple First reputation, this wasn't a good ranking.
But passing was what mattered!
Passing meant he could take the palace examination, could achieve Presented Scholar status. The exact ranking didn't matter - as long as he passed, it was better than anything!
Qi Ming was still a young man after all. Unable to contain his excitement, his face immediately lit up with joy. All composure and calm flew out the window as he grabbed Liu Si, ready to run, muttering, "Quick, let's go back and tell Second Brother. I need to write Mother a letter to tell her I passed!"
People around watching the results showed either envy or jealousy, but all bowed their hands as he passed.
Regardless, this young man before them would have great prospects. It was better to show goodwill early than make enemies.
But Wen Liu Lang couldn't say a word.
Recent events - whether his confidence in this examination or his mother Sun Shi's new pregnancy - had made Wen Liu Lang like a kite in the sky, always floating, unable to settle down.
As for Third Master Qi, so what if his brother was capable? Wasn't he just a foil for himself?
Soon the Capital's wealthy merchants would no longer discuss Third Master Qi's Minor Triple First achievement, but his own success instead.
But Liu Si's "he passed" was like a thunderbolt to Wen Liu Lang's head.
He had no time to say anything to Third Master Qi, instead frantically shouting, "Hurry up and look, quickly! You useless fools, I'll look myself." With that, Wen Liu Lang pushed aside the people in front, shoved his own servant away, and desperately searched for his name on the Metropolitan Graduate list.
Qi Ming didn't even glance at him, excitedly pulling Liu Si forward.
But they hadn't gone far when he felt Commander Ye protecting him at his side.
Looking up puzzled, before he could see Commander Ye's face, he was pressed down by a firm hand.
General Ye's voice was low and steady, "If you don't want to be captured, keep your head down and follow me."
Qi Ming didn't understand, but soon he saw people getting out of the sedan chairs and carriages parked outside, bringing people to squeeze toward the wall, some carrying red ribbons or ropes, looking aggressive.
After a moment of confusion, Qi Ming remembered what Manager Qin had mentioned - the Capital had a tradition of "catching sons-in-law beneath the examination board."
Some were officials, some were gentry, all people from the Capital who, if they had unmarried daughters, would watch the triennial metropolitan and palace examinations, ready to rush over and invite a son-in-law home.
The more aggressive ones would even resort to kidnapping.
Although Qi Ming wanted a wife to feed him osmanthus cakes, he didn't want to be "caught."
Thinking this, Qi Ming immediately gripped Liu Si tightly and, under Commander Ye's protection, left quickly, eventually running all the way home.
But faster than him were the congratulatory messengers who had already entered the gate.
This congratulatory messenger wasn't sent by Qi Yun, but was a complete stranger.
Usually after results were posted, a group of people would gather to look for familiar names. If they found any, they'd immediately run to report the good news and earn some reward money.
The Qi family was now considered a wealthy and prestigious household in the Capital. Their third young master's success was good news, and being wealthy, the rewards would certainly be generous. This messenger was particularly quick on his feet, shouting all the way, "Great joy! Great joy! The Qi family's third young master has passed the metropolitan examination!"
This news quickly spread into the residence. When Tie Zi ran over with the good news, Qi Yun and Ye Jiao were sitting together on the soft couch, each holding a baby to lull them to sleep.
Seeing Tie Zi rushing over in excitement, Little Su at the door quickly gestured for quiet, whispering, "Brother Tie, don't go in. The young master and young miss just fell asleep."
Tie Zi immediately covered his mouth and nodded. Hearing no movement inside, he whispered, "Tell them the congratulatory messenger has arrived. Our Third Young Master passed."
Although Little Su was just a servant, she knew how difficult passing the metropolitan examination was.
She immediately went inside, carefully entering the inner room and standing silently.
Ye Jiao was holding Ruyi, gently swaying her arm. Seeing Little Su enter, she didn't put the baby down but waited until Ruyi was truly asleep before placing her in the small bed.
Qi Yun placed Ning Bao next to Ruyi and covered them with a small blanket.
As soon as he covered them, the two little ones seemed to sense each other and moved closer on their own, quickly ending up with their little heads touching and chubby arms intertwined, sleeping in a bundle.
Ye Jiao smiled at the sight but made no sound, just signaling with her eyes for Nanny Mo to watch them before leaving with Qi Yun to the adjacent room.
Little Su followed closely behind, closing the door to block out sound, then said to them, "Second Young Master, Second Young Mistress, Tie Zi says Third Young Master passed."
Hearing this, Tie Zi outside quickly entered, lowering his voice, "A congratulatory messenger came. I gave him a reward and sent him away. I don't know the exact ranking yet, but he definitely passed. I also heard him say the Wen family has been quiet with no movement. He didn't see them, so they probably failed."
Hearing this, Ye Jiao turned to look at Qi Yun and saw a smile of genuine joy on his face.
Actually, Ye Jiao had seen this kind of smile many times. Her husband was always gentle with her, never showing the coldness he displayed to outsiders, making it easy for her to tell when Qi Yun was truly happy.
Like now, Qi Yun was delighted, even showing his joy openly.
Although he was usually quite strict with Qi Ming, as an older brother, Qi Yun had invested much effort in him. Almost every step Qi Ming took, he had to support and watch from the side, not daring to slack off even slightly.
Now that there were finally results, Qi Yun was naturally happy.
He didn't hide his feelings, telling Little Su, "Have the household servants hang red cloth, set off firecrackers, and tell Manager Qin that Third Brother passed. For the next two days, Golden Cup Wine in the shop should be sold at 80% of the previous price."
Little Su acknowledged and ran out. Tie Zi asked quietly, "Second Young Master, isn't such a big display too ostentatious?"
Tie Zi's concern was reasonable. There were many wealthy households in the Capital, and the Qi family wasn't the only one with candidates in this examination. Other successful families in the Capital also existed.
Being so showy seemed inappropriate.
Qi Yun didn't speak but looked at Ye Jiao, smiling as he asked, "What does Jiao Niang think?"
Ye Jiao was holding a red bean cake, about to eat it, and seemed surprised that Qi Yun would ask her. She paused for a moment.
At this opportunity, Qi Yun leaned over and bit off the remaining half of the red bean cake in her hand.
Little Ginseng puffed her cheeks and leaned forward to snatch it back.
Second Young Master Qi was just teasing her, but didn't expect his wife to actually pounce. He quickly reached out to steady her, then picked up another piece to feed her, his voice laughing, "Alright, alright, here Jiao Niang, eat a new one. I promise I won't steal yours next time."
Ye Jiao took a bite from his hand. Hearing his surrender, she sat back down.
Qi Yun glanced at Tie Zi, seeing him tactfully turn his back, then cleared his throat, "Alright, it's nothing."
Tie Zi obediently turned back around, keeping his eyes lowered in a very submissive manner.
After the commotion, Ye Jiao hadn't forgotten Qi Yun's question to her. But Little Ginseng didn't understand such matters well and didn't want to speak carelessly. She just answered honestly, "I don't know whether it should be lively or not. I trust husband - what you say must have good reasons."
This was said candidly and represented Ye Jiao's true feelings.
In Little Ginseng's heart, her husband was the most capable person in the world, so what he said was naturally right.
These words made Qi Yun's expression even gentler. He gently held Ye Jiao's hand, only to have her grasp his fingertips in return, warming them with her palm.
She also said softly, "You should still carry the hand warmer. Warming up more in spring won't hurt."
Qi Yun agreed, letting her hold his hand.
This action was completely natural for both of them, clearly something that had happened countless times before.
Little Ginseng had been accustomed to the hand-holding healing method since their wedding day. Even while holding a red bean cake in her other hand, she didn't let go of Qi Yun.
Qi Yun looked at Tie Zi, and Second Young Master Qi, wanting to educate him, said directly, "We're not from a great noble family. Such joyous occasions should be celebrated. Moreover, the Qi family comes from farming and merchant backgrounds. Third Brother is the first to advance through imperial examinations. We should naturally be happy about this. Even if we kept quiet, people would still talk. Better to take this opportunity to celebrate Third Brother properly."
Hearing this, Ye Jiao couldn't help saying, "But I see Manager Qin particularly loves money. Will he be happy selling Golden Cup Wine cheaply?"
Qi Yun smiled, "This Golden Cup Wine costs ten times more than Jade Liquid Wine to begin with. It's not affordable for ordinary people. Those who can afford it don't care about the small discount. It doesn't matter - it's just for show."
Besides, that person in the palace was probably watching his third brother constantly.
If he kept completely quiet, that would be asking for trouble.
Tie Zi carefully noted everything down, then withdrew to avoid disturbing his masters.
Ye Jiao went to wash her hands, wiped them clean with a cloth, then sat back beside Qi Yun, directly settling into his embrace. She yawned and said softly, "Husband, I'm sleepy."
Qi Yun held her tighter with some heartache.
That morning, when Ruyi coughed a few times, it had frightened them both.
Xu Bao had always been one who rarely got sick, consistently sturdy as a little bull calf. Although Ning Bao, like Ruyi, was born premature, he ate a lot and slept a lot, growing plump and round without any problems.
But Ruyi loved to laugh and move, thinner than her two brothers.
Usually she was fine, but today's sudden coughing had made Qi Yun and Ye Jiao's hearts jump to their throats.
They had risen before dawn. Ye Jiao held Ruyi and wouldn't let go, checking her pulse and giving her water. Qi Yun sat rigidly beside them, unable to help, his mind filled with memories of his own childhood illnesses, growing more anxious with each thought.
When the doctor finally came and confirmed Ruyi had merely caught a slight chill with no serious problem and would be fine after some sleep, they finally relaxed.
Now hearing Ye Jiao say she was tired, Qi Yun said gently, "You sleep. I'll stay here with you."
Ye Jiao tugged at Qi Yun's sleeve and yawned, "What about the arrangements outside? Firecrackers, lanterns - everything needs to be properly organized."
Qi Yun leaned down to kiss her forehead, "Leave it all to me."
Little Ginseng was truly tired and didn't ask more questions. She lay down on the soft couch in the side room and nodded, but soon sat up again, looking at the teacup on the table, "Husband, I want some water."
Qi Yun quickly brought over the teacup, feeding her with one hand while gently patting her back with the other.
Just as Ye Jiao had taken two sips, an excited voice suddenly came from outside, "Second Brother, Sister-in-law, I passed!"
This shout wouldn't have mattered, but Qi Yun's hand shook slightly at the suddenness, causing Ye Jiao to spray out the mouthful of tea she'd just drunk!
It all splashed onto Second Young Master Qi's shirt front.
Qi Yun didn't bother looking at his soaked blue shirt but quickly used a handkerchief to wipe Ye Jiao's mouth.
Little Ginseng coughed lightly a couple times. After catching her breath, she looked at Qi Yun, "Husband, you... you should quickly change clothes. This could make you catch cold."
Second Young Master Qi nodded with no anger on his face, just warmth and smiles throughout, "Alright, you sleep first. I'll go change."
Then he gave her the handkerchief, helped her wipe her chin, and seeing that all the water had splashed on him without wetting her, he gently helped her lie down and tucked her in.
Qi Yun stood up and, without looking at the water stains on his clothes, walked straight out the door.
Qi Ming, who had excitedly run into the courtyard, immediately saw his second brother emerge from the door.
But Qi Yun's appearance was somewhat wretched now - his blue shirt had a large dark patch on the front from the tea, and his clothes were somewhat wrinkled.
Second Young Master Qi looked at Qi Ming calmly, his expression unreadable.
Qi Ming had been extremely happy, but seeing Qi Yun in this state left him bewildered. He couldn't help asking, "Second Brother, what happened to you?"
Qi Yun looked at him with calm eyes and expression, his voice flat and steady, "Where is Third Prince and Elder Brother?"
Qi Ming answered honestly, "Sworn brother had business. Elder Brother Ye returned home after bringing me back."
Qi Yun nodded and said calmly, "That's perfect then."
Qi Ming was stunned. Perfect for what?
Qi Yun looked at Qi Ming and said, "Third Brother, come with me. I have something to discuss with you."
Hearing this, Qi Ming set aside all his confusion and happily followed along.
Ye Jiao in the room didn't know what had happened outside. When she woke up, it was already getting dark.
As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Qi Yun sitting at the table, holding something he was looking through.
Ye Jiao rubbed her eyes and sat up, put on her outer robe and embroidered shoes, then walked over. She placed her hand on Qi Yun's shoulder and stood beside him.
Qi Yun smiled and held her hand, "Jiao Niang, you're awake. Sit down. Tomorrow there will be quite a commotion - many people will come to congratulate Third Brother. It's rare we have some peace today. I got a set of crystal chess pieces. Shall we play?"
This was a game they used to play often but had set aside due to their respective busy schedules.
Bringing it up again now, Ye Jiao was naturally interested.
But Little Ginseng looked around and couldn't find where she should sit.
This side room was usually for the two babies, so the carpets and small beds were all very comfortable and soft, but there was only one set of table and chairs with no extras.
Qi Yun also realized this after speaking. He was about to get up and accompany Ye Jiao to sit on the soft couch together.
But Little Ginseng found her position first.
She turned sideways and sat directly on the man's lap, wrapping her arms around his neck. Ye Jiao said softly, "Husband, let's play."
Qi Yun looked at her, suddenly feeling that using this atmosphere for chess was rather wasteful.
He reached out to hold Ye Jiao's waist, wanting to do something else, but heard her voice again, "Hurry up, I'm hungry."
Qi Yun's movements paused. He took a deep breath, just kissed her, his voice low, "I'm hungry too."
Ye Jiao looked at him with clear, pure eyes, "Then let's have them set the table."
Qi Yun held her hand and said gently, "Alright."
Ye Jiao smiled and asked, "Shall we play chess after eating?"
Qi Yun didn't answer, feeling there were more interesting things to do than chess.
But when standing up, Ye Jiao's eyes caught sight of the stack of papers beside Qi Yun's hand. She looked puzzled.
"Sincerity within shows without, therefore the gentleman..."
Huh, wasn't this the sentence Third Brother had copied hundreds of times before?