Chapter 67

The weather gradually cleared up, showing signs of turning sunny, but the wind in the courtyard never stopped.

Xun Yunhe welcomed Pei Xun into the warm room on the west side of the horizontal hall. The charcoal fire had just been lit, and the room was quite cold. This was not Pei Xun’s first visit to the Xun residence, and he clearly noticed that the mansion was significantly different from before. The courtyard was filled with more flowers and plants, and the scenery was adorned just right. It was as if a person who had lost the will to live suddenly found the desire to continue, and everything became vibrant.

This showed how important Xu Yunxi was in Xun Yunhe’s heart.

The two men sat across the table. As soon as Pei Xun sat down, he clapped his hands, and an attendant placed an exquisite box on the table and then withdrew. Pei Xun personally opened the box, revealing an ancient silk scroll with a yellowish hue. He carefully took it out and spread it in front of Xun Yunhe, “While sorting the storeroom yesterday, I accidentally found this ancient chess manual. A while ago, I heard His Majesty mention that he hadn’t played chess with you for a long time. So, I thought of presenting this to Lord Xun, so you can play chess with His Majesty.”

Pei Xun’s words were very well-crafted.

Xun Yunhe was known for his integrity, not greedy for money, and uninterested in women. Many officials tried to bribe him but failed. However, no scholar could refuse ancient books, paintings, or chess manuals, and Xun Yunhe was no exception. Pei Xun knew he never accepted gifts, so he brought up the Emperor, making it difficult for Xun Yunhe to refuse. This could also be seen as a way of showing his filial piety to the Emperor, achieving two goals at once.

Pei Xun had a strategy behind organizing the storeroom. Recently, a drought had occurred in the Qingzhou area, leaving the people with no harvest. Pei Xun immediately sold valuable items from his residence to raise some silver to help the Ministry of Revenue provide disaster relief. This act spread through the official circles, starkly contrasting with the deposed Crown Prince’s indulgence. This was clearly Pei Xun’s clever move to win people’s hearts.

However, Xun Yunhe was not so easily dealt with. After closely examining the chess manual, he chuckled, “Thank you for your generosity, Your Highness, but it so happens that I already have this chess manual.”

This was a clear rejection of Pei Xun’s goodwill.

Pei Xun’s expression paused slightly, “Is that so?” Clearly not wanting to accept this fact.

Xun Yunhe smiled lightly and nodded, “If Your Highness doesn’t believe me, I can write it out for you to see.”

At this, Pei Xun could only smile wryly.

Xun Yunhe was known for his extensive knowledge and photographic memory; he likely memorized the chess manual with just one glance.

Xun Yunhe’s attitude was not only resolute but also tinged with a slight annoyance.

Pei Xun understood. Last time, his harsh actions against Prince Xi’s mansion had implicated Xu Yunxi and displeased Xun Yunhe.

In fact, Pei Xun had thought carefully about the matter between Xun Yunhe and Prince Xi’s mansion for two days.

Regardless of who ascended the throne, Xun Yunhe’s position as Prime Minister was unshakable in the current situation. He could only groom Su Ziyan as Xun Yunhe’s successor and had no intention of replacing the prime minister. Xun Yunhe’s weight in the court was immense. Anyone wishing to succeed smoothly and take the throne would need the support of this Prime Minister.

However, Xun Yunhe was Pei Muheng’s father-in-law.

So Pei Xun came up with a bold idea: he wanted to sever the connection between Prince Xi’s mansion and Xun Yunhe.

It sounded unbelievable, but Pei Xun had some confidence.

Between Pei Muheng and Xu Yunxi lies an insurmountable chasm—Xu Yunxi’s desire to practice medicine, a path she refuses to forsake for Pei Muheng. Xun Yunhe is keenly aware of this, and it is precisely this understanding that Pei Xun aims to exploit.

After setting aside the chess manual, Pei Xun took out a book from the bottom layer of the exquisite box and pushed it toward Xun Yunhe, “In addition to the chess manual, I found this medical book. Prime Minister, you may not know, but I once taught Yunxi archery, so we share a mentor-student bond. When I found this medical book, I thought of her. Your protective nature towards her is evident to me, so I decided to gift it to you, allowing you to gain some favor.”

Xun Yunhe’s gaze fell on the yellowed cover, and he squinted slightly.

Pei Xun knew this gift had struck a chord with Xun Yunhe. Holding his ivory fan, he leisurely smiled and said, “Yunxi has an innocent and lively nature, like a soaring swallow. You gave her this name, didn’t you?”

When his daughter was mentioned, Xun Yunhe’s expression softened visibly. He smiled and said, “Yes, I loved her dearly when she was born and chose this name after scouring through many poems and books.”

Pei Xun slowly nodded, “‘Living as a guest, the beautiful scenery of Yunxi is lost. Even if I return, the mists may mislead me.’ It is a good name. Accompanied by mountains and befriending waters, resting in the clouds—what a carefree life.”

Pei Xun’s words were a reminder to Xun Yunhe not to forget the original intention behind the name. Xu Yunxi was meant to soar freely in the sky, not to be confined within the palace walls.

Having conveyed his message, Pei Xun noticed a hint of seriousness in Xun Yunhe’s eyes.

Mission accomplished, Pei Xun did not linger. Leaving the box behind, he departed.

Watching Pei Xun’s leisurely retreating figure, Xun Yunhe’s face quickly darkened.

Something was amiss.

Pei Xun’s intentions were clear today—he did not want Xun Yunhe involved in the fight for the throne at Prince Xi’s mansion and wanted to give his daughter her freedom.

This raised a question. If Old Master Zhang were indeed in Pei Xun’s hands and Pei Xun knew the secret of the thirteen needles, why would he independently attempt to win favor?

Xu Yunxi and the Empress were mortal enemies.

There were two possibilities: First, Pei Xun had captured Old Master Zhang but did not know he was Xu Yunxi’s grandfather and acted rashly. Second, Old Master Zhang was not in Pei Xun’s hands, and Pei Xun did not know the secret of the thirteen needles.

If it is the former, with the enemy in the open and us in the dark, it would be a great advantage for him and Yunxi. But if it is the latter, then there is trouble.

Even someone as composed as Xun Yunhe couldn’t help but break into a cold sweat. The transfer order was Su Ziyan’s idea, and the mastermind was undoubtedly Empress Su. With such a significant matter, how could she not inform Pei Xun?

Xun Yunhe keenly sensed that an important clue might have been overlooked.

*

After seeing Xun Yunhe off, Xu Yunxi returned to Qinghui Garden.

Yin Xing had already prepared the medicinal decoction and handed it to Nanny Chen to deliver to the study. Seeing Xu Yunxi sitting listlessly in the east side room drinking tea, she walked over with a grin and asked, “Miss, why don’t you go to the front yard to see the Third Master?”

She seemed to be looking forward to her going.

Xu Yunxi glanced at her and looked out the window while holding the teacup, “If he is pretending to be sick, let him be sick enough.”

Xu Yunxi rarely spoke in anger, but it was evident that she was truly upset this time.

Seeing her tightly drawn pretty face, Yin Xing was genuinely happy.

Her Young Miss finally showed some human emotions.

“Yes, let him be sick enough, half-dead even, so no one can help us find the old master,” Yin Xing said earnestly.

Hearing this, Xu Yunxi put down her tea cup and slowly looked at her, amused, “You little girl, whose side are you on?” She tapped Yin Xing’s forehead.

Yin Xing laughed heartily, “Of course, I’m on your side, Miss. If you have the guts, then don’t care about him.”

Xu Yunxi didn’t reply.

At this moment, Nanny Chen returned with the medicinal decoction and, standing outside the curtain, smiled and saluted Xu Yunxi, “Young Madam, Third Master has sent people to ask three times, inviting you to have dinner in the study.”

Pei Muheng had heard that Xu Yunxi was angry and returned to the backyard. He was anxious to come over, but upon reconsidering, Yunxi had told him not to go out. If he went out and caught the wind, it might make her even angrier. Therefore, he dared not act rashly and had to ask Nanny Chen to come over.

Xu Yunxi felt at ease upon hearing this.

He was always smart, knowing just the right amount to keep her from getting angry. Fortunately, he was willing to put in the effort. If it were up to her, she’d rather read a few pages of a medical book or concoct some pills than deal with such romantic entanglements.

Xu Yunxi, being a magnanimous person, did not hold a grudge against Pei Muheng and went to the study in the evening twilight of late autumn.

Pei Muheng stood by the curio shelf, watching her enter, watching her pass by him to the west side room, and then sit at the desk without saying a word.

Pei Muheng turned around, leaned against the curio shelf with his arms crossed, and looked at her, his eyebrows and eyelashes gleaming with a faint smile. “Yunxi?” he tried calling her.

Xu Yunxi remained calm and composed; she was adjusting her dress without any reaction.

At least she wasn’t brushing him off anymore; she was willing to show her displeasure.

Pei Muheng slowly smiled, squatted in front of her, stretched out his arms, and was about to wrap them around her waist when Xu Yunxi glanced at him, “What are you doing!”

Pei Muheng’s dark eyes glowed with a bright light as he softly pleaded, “Don’t be angry, okay?”

“I’m not angry,” Xu Yunxi said gently this time, “If you don’t care about your own body, why should I be angry? Oh, and I forgot to tell you, soaking in ice water is not good for your offspring.”

Upon hearing this, Pei Muheng’s expression changed drastically, his brows furrowing tightly. “Yunxi, is that true?”

Xu Yunxi blinked, “Would I lie to you?”

Pei Muheng was filled with frustration, his arms hanging limp by her side, looking like a wilted eggplant.

Xu Yunxi couldn’t bear to see him like this and gave a soft laugh, “Will you dare to do it next time?” Her eyes sparkled like a clear autumn pool, the bright autumn water rippling from his eyes to his heart.

Pei Muheng stared at her intently, his emotions surging.

Xu Yunxi, feeling uneasy under his intense gaze, averted her eyes and said seriously, “Don’t worry, I’ve already used acupuncture to dispel the cold. You’re fine now…”

Her voice was very soft like a feather tickling his ear.

Pei Muheng tightened his arms, slowly encircled her, and lifted her up, carrying her straight to the inner chamber.

Xu Yunxi’s cheeks warmed. She glanced at the servants coming and going outside and whispered in annoyance, “What are you doing? It’s time for dinner.”

“It’s still early…” his voice low and echoing in her ear.

Xu Yunxi assumed he wanted to engage in intimacy, reluctantly closing her eyes. Fortunately, he simply held her slender body close, nestling her in his embrace, without any further actions.

The two lay in bed, their posture ambiguous.

Pei Muheng’s chin rested on her hair, and he softly asked, “What did your father say to you?”

He never called him ‘father-in-law’ in Xun Yunhe’s presence but privately acknowledged his status.

Xu Yunxi did not mind these details and shook her head, “Nothing much.”

The man behind her noticeably paused.

Given how seriously Xun Yunhe took matters, it was unlikely he said nothing. After a moment of silence, Pei Muheng’s tone was clear, “He didn’t ask you to leave me, did he?”

Pei Muheng could tolerate many things, but he would never tolerate Xun Yunhe interfering in his relationship with Xu Yunxi.

Xu Yunxi glanced sideways, her gaze clear, “No, he only asked about my grandfather and hoped I would inform him of anything in the future.”

Pei Muheng was skeptical but did not press further. After holding her for a while, he couldn’t resist planting a gentle kiss on her neck, “Yunxi, you have always been important to me. In the past, it was because you were my wife. Now, it is because of who you are.”

He did not shy away from their past differences. At the time of their wedding, he had no feelings for Xu Yunxi. His affection for her grew slowly over time through their interactions.

There were no flowery words, just simple honesty. This was a way that Xu Yunxi liked and was willing to accept.

She leaned against his chest, her lips moving slightly, and softly responded with a hum.

Pei Muheng saw a hint of shy blush hidden under her reserved demeanor. He couldn’t help but gently rub her earlobe and, in a voice only the two of them could hear, called, “Nannan?”

That one word ‘Nannan’ made Xu Yunxi’s skin tingle with goosebumps. She immediately turned to him in his arms, a little speechless, and glared at him, “Why are you calling me that?”

Pei Muheng was a bit jealous, “Your nickname is Nannan. I didn’t call it wrong. Or is it that only your father can call you that?”

Xu Yunxi’s throat tightened slightly, “That’s not what I meant.”

In the past, she avoided Xun Yunhe as much as possible, so she didn’t have time to care what he called her. Now, hearing ‘Nannan’ from Pei Muheng’s mouth had a different and rather cheesy tone.

“In any case, don’t call me that.”

Pei Muheng persisted, “Xu Yunxi, you can’t play favorites.”

Xu Yunxi, annoyed, said, “Stop being unreasonable. It’s different.”

“What’s different? If you have the guts, tell your father not to call you by your nickname next time, or I’ll keep calling you Nannan.”

Pei Muheng thought the name sounded quite nice.

Xun Yunhe had indeed put a lot of thought into it, and Pei Muheng suddenly felt a bit jealous. He had to outdo his father-in-law.

Xu Yunxi ignored him, turned over, and closed her eyes with her hand under her head. She spent the night in the study, and the next day, Pei Muheng went to Fengtian Hall. She then returned to Qinghui Garden.

Finding the old master was urgent, so Pei Muheng naturally didn’t have much time to stay at home and continued to leave early and return late every day.

On the second day of November, winter had fully set in, and many elderly and weak people in the city caught colds. The Chengyang Medical Hall was suddenly overwhelmed, and Xu Yunxi went there with Yin Xing to provide consultations.

The next morning, after a rare sunny day, the Yan residence sent a message to Prince Xi’s mansion, saying that Pei Mushan was ill.

Princess Consort Xi was anxious and instructed Nanny Hao, “Go and inform Yunxi. Ask her if she is willing to accompany me to visit Shanshan at the Yan residence?”

Xu Yunxi readily agreed and immediately changed into a pink silk robe with gold-threaded butterflies and a peach-colored jacket with scattered flowers. She then headed to Jinhe Hall, where Princess Consort Xi was already prepared to go out. Seeing that Xu Yunxi was not wearing a cloak, Princess Consort Xi frowned, “Even though the sun is out, the wind outside is still cold. Why aren’t you wearing a cloak?”

Xu Yunxi had been taking gelatin supplements daily to nourish her body and didn’t feel cold. Just as she was about to explain, Princess Consort Xi had already instructed Nanny Hao to bring a piece of clothing. It was a bright red fur jacket embroidered with golden begonias, “This is a fur jacket I made last year. I haven’t worn it because I thought the color was too bright. Don’t mind it, wear it for now. Later, I’ll have a few more made to fit you.”

In the past, only Pei Mushan received such treatment.

Xu Yunxi, who never fussed over her attire, smiled and replied, “This one is fine. No need to make more.”

Princess Consort Xi did not argue further and led the group out.

The Yan residence was separated from Prince Xi’s mansion by the imperial city. The carriage left Prince Xi’s mansion, headed south for a while, then turned west onto Zhengyangmen Street, and arrived at the Yan residence in Shiyong Lane. Madam Yan personally awaited their arrival at the entrance, welcoming them warmly.

Princess Consort Xi was annoyed, seeing that Madam Yan was smiling so cheerfully despite her daughter’s illness. Truly, a mother-in-law is not the same as a mother. Princess Consort Xi crossed the threshold with a composed expression.

This was Xu Yunxi’s first visit to the Yan residence. She found the Yan residence’s courtyard spacious, luxurious, and even more impressive than Prince Xi’s mansion. The twenty-year background of a chief minister gave the Yan family a composed and elegant demeanor.

Madam Yan, undeterred by Princess Consort Xi’s stern face, warmly held Xu Yunxi’s hand and asked affectionately, “It’s your first time at our Yan residence, and we are truly honored. I’m so happy. Please tell me what you like to eat so that I can instruct the kitchen to prepare it.”

This time, Princess Consort Xi didn’t fall behind. As she passed through the hallway, she looked sideways at the old lady, saying, “She prefers light flavors, so let’s not serve any greasy meat. The fish should be fresh, steamed with scallions and garlic, as she likes it tender and flavorful. Other dishes can be omitted, but cauliflower is indispensable.”

Xu Yunxi quietly glanced at Princess Consort Xi’s back. Although she wasn’t picky, it didn’t mean she had no preferences. Princess Consort Xi’s words were indeed accurate.

Madam Yan, with a clear mind, laughed heartily, “Alright, we’ll do as you say.”

As they walked towards the Autumn Courtyard where Pei Mushan resided, they saw Yan Shaoling standing in the corridor. He hadn’t yet removed his armor and was covered in dust, indicating that he had just returned upon hearing the news. “Greetings to my mother-in-law,” he said.

Princess Consort Xi, with a kind expression towards her son-in-law, stopped on the steps and replied, “Why are you back? Serving in the military is not a joke. If the Emperor hears about this, you might face a reprimand. Don’t worry about us, just go back.”

These words resonated with Madam Yan, as Yan Shaoling was the family’s only hope now. Her son didn’t listen to her, so a little scolding from his mother-in-law would be good. Madam Yan smiled and watched the scene with amusement.

Yan Shaoling was not one to be easily subdued. He laughed heartily, “It’s just city patrol. My brothers will continue working whether I’m there or not, so it won’t make a difference.”

Seeing his mother-in-law about to react, he immediately switched to a flattering tone and pointed to Xu Yunxi, “Once Third Sister-in-law checks her pulse, I’ll go back to the camp at ease.”

Princess Consort Xi said no more and gracefully entered the house. Inside were all women, so Yan Shaoling stayed outside in the courtyard waiting for news.

As soon as Princess Consort Xi and Xu Yunxi crossed the threshold, they heard vomiting sounds from inside.

Princess Consort Xi was momentarily stunned, a myriad of thoughts flashing through her mind. No wonder the old lady was smiling so brightly; it turned out to be this.

Princess Consort Xi entered the room without showing any emotion.

Pei Mushan was lying on a Luohan bed, leaning over the side and vomiting severely. A woman sitting beside her was gently patting her back, speaking with the calm tone of someone experienced, “You’ll feel better after vomiting. Have some sour plum soup, and you’ll be fine…”

It was Lord Wen’s daughter, Wen Ruyu.

A group of people noisily entered, exchanging greetings and pleasantries. Princess Consort Xi and Madam Yan sat by the window on a kang bed, while Wen Ruyu pulled Xu Yunxi to sit next to Pei Mushan.

Princess Consort Xi and Madam Yan were very patient. After entering, they didn’t ask anything and just watched the three women interact.

As soon as Pei Mushan saw Xu Yunxi, she hugged her waist and cried out, “Sister-in-law, I’ve missed you so much.”

Wen Ruyu laughed mischievously, “Come on, lie down properly and let your sister-in-law check your pulse.”

Pei Mushan didn’t move and instead hugged Xu Yunxi even tighter. Xu Yunxi, smiling as always, gently took Pei Mushan’s wrist and began to check her pulse. Everyone’s eyes were naturally drawn to her; her every action, word, and expression always made people feel like they were bathed in the warmth of spring.

When the months are still early, the pulse is not very evident. After a while, Xu Yunxi released Pei Mushan’s wrist and asked, “How many days have you been vomiting?”

Pei Mushan, resting in her embrace, replied groggily, “I vomited once last night, thinking it was a cold stomach. After sleeping, I woke up feeling even worse, as if I’d swallowed a fly…”

Princess Consort Xi couldn’t listen any longer and glared at her, “Nonsense.”

Everyone in the room burst into laughter.

Hearing this, Pei Mushan immediately lifted her face from Xu Yunxi’s embrace and looked at her mother, saying, “Mother, I’m telling the truth; I feel terrible.”

Princess Consort Xi, seeing her daughter face covered in tears and smudged on Xu Yunxi’s fur coat, frowned, “Oh dear, sit properly and don’t dirty your sister-in-law’s clothes.”

Only then did Pei Mushan notice that Xu Yunxi was wearing a familiar fur coat and began to exclaim loudly. “Hey, mother, why did you give such a good thing to sister-in-law? This is the best fur from your storage, and you said it was for me!” Pei Mushan puffed up her cheeks and stood with her hands on her hips.

Princess Consort Xi, of course, knew that her daughter didn’t actually want to fight Xu Yunxi for the item. She was merely using it as an excuse to tease her. Princess Consort Xi drank her tea without saying anything.

However, Madam Yan almost laughed herself into a fit, pointing at her and scolding, “You little girl, how dare you be jealous of your sister-in-law? Our Yan family won’t run out of fur for you. You can go to my storage and pick one out later. If you bully your sister-in-law, I’ll tell your brother.”

Wen Ruyu cracked a few jokes, and everyone burst into laughter.

Xu Yunxi let them be and quietly observed Pei Mushan’s complexion, then asked about her menstrual cycle. Finally, she said, “The pregnancy is still early, so the pulse is unclear, but it’s likely.”

Wen Ruyu immediately offered her congratulations and pinched Pei Mushan’s cheek, “You lucky girl, getting pregnant just half a month after the wedding. Your family treats you like a treasure. You must have accumulated a lot of good karma over several lifetimes.”

She and Pei Mushan both came from privileged backgrounds, but her husband was far less loving and considerate than Yan Shaoling.

Pei Mushan’s cheeks turned red from the teasing, and she continued hugging Xu Yunxi, “It’s all thanks to sister-in-law.”

After Xu Yunxi’s guidance, the couple successfully consummated their marriage that very night. Yan Shaoling was indeed a tiger; he could go two or three times in one night, leaving Pei Mushan thoroughly exhausted.

Now, considering the timeline, it was most likely that the pregnancy happened on the first night. Who else could be credited but Xu Yunxi?

Madam Yan and Princess Consort Xi didn’t know what was going on, and Xu Yunxi smiled without saying anything.

Wen Ruyu, of course, felt a pang of envy, but when her gaze fell upon Xu Yunxi’s face, she quickly dropped it. She had forgotten about Xu Yunxi, who had been married to Pei Muheng for over a year without any signs of pregnancy. Who knows how anxious she must have been?

Madam Yan noticed this and suppressed her joy, not showing it too openly.

Princess Consort Xi was already moved to tears. “Being pregnant is a great joy…” After the initial excitement, a wave of endless sadness washed over her.

This might be Heaven’s punishment for her and Muheng, for neglecting Yunxi in the past.

Princess Consort Xi couldn’t hold back her tears. “Look at me, I’m really overjoyed.”

Everyone understood but didn’t speak of it.

Wen Ruyu, fearing that Xu Yunxi might feel uncomfortable, found an excuse to pull her out of the eastern side room, leaving Princess Consort Xi and Madam Yan to accompany Pei Mushan.

Xu Yunxi followed her out of the main hall and into the western wing room, where the two of them warmed themselves by the stove.

Wen Ruyu saw Xu Yunxi’s calm and serene expression and gently advised her, “Don’t worry, and don’t be unhappy. These things happen best when they’re meant to be.”

Xu Yunxi couldn’t help but laugh and cry, “I’m not unhappy.”

Wen Ruyu had a look that said, ‘Don’t pretend,’ “I’ve been through this too. I was initially anxious, but later, when I relaxed, the child came.”

Xu Yunxi didn’t explain further and simply smiled, “Okay.”

“By the way, I forgot to tell you, after the last time, my father harshly scolded that scoundrel. Recently, he’s been behaving himself, staying at home teaching his daughter to read and write, not stepping out of the house at all,” Wen Ruyu said with satisfaction.

“Imperial Physician Fan checked his pulse and prescribed two remedies. If he behaves, I’ll stay with him; if he doesn’t, I’ll wait until he dies.”

Xu Yunxi, looking worried, asked, “Why don’t you divorce him? Waiting for him is also wasting your own life.”

Wen Ruyu’s face was indifferent. “After all the wrongs he’s done to me, how can I let him go so easily? Let him happily marry another wife and have more children? In his dreams! Everything in the Cheng Mansion belongs to me and my daughter.”

“And besides, what about my daughters if I divorce him? Bringing them back to the Wen family would mean living under my brother and sister-in-law’s roof, and remarrying—who would truly care for them?”

Mentioning the two children, Xu Yunxi had no argument.

“In that case, it’s best for the children, but it’s hard on you.” A faint sadness lingered in Xu Yunxi’s eyebrows.

When her mother, Madam Zhang, left years ago, Xu Yunxi harbored resentment. However, as she grew older, she felt immense gratitude for Madam Zhang’s decision. Rather than suffering together, she preferred her mother to have her own life so that neither of them would be a burden to the other.

Wen Ruyu wiped away her tears and spoke resolutely, “No, I don’t feel wronged. No matter how much of a scoundrel Cheng is, he’s still their father. A biological father is better than an outsider. As long as they are well, I won’t feel wronged.”

Xu Yunxi lowered her gaze and remained silent for a while.

After lunch, Princess Consort Xi took Xu Yunxi and bid farewell.

On the way back, Princess Consort Xi had come to terms with things. Her son brought it on himself, so it was okay to delay having children. Her daughter’s pregnancy was a good thing, and it was also good that the second daughter-in-law in the mansion was pregnant. Empathizing with the Yan family’s treatment of her daughter, Princess Consort Xi felt a bit guilty. She ordered dinner to be arranged in the flower hall to celebrate Li Xuanyan’s pregnancy.

Pei Muheng returned to the mansion at three-quarters past the hour of the rooster, just as the night was falling. After dismounting, he first went to Jinhua Hall to pay respects. As he passed through the Chuihua Gate, the east flower hall was brightly lit, filled with laughter and chatter, as if there was a feast.

Perhaps Xu Yunxi was also there, so Pei Muheng stepped forward. Just as he was about to step onto the stairs, a gentle voice called out from behind him, “Husband, come quickly and help me…”

Pei Muheng suddenly turned around.

The way “husband” was called out was both sweet and clear. If it had come from Xu Yunxi’s mouth, who knows how beautiful it would have sounded.

Pei Mujing was carefully supporting his pregnant wife as they passed by Pei Muheng. Seeing him standing still, he asked, “Third brother, what are you daydreaming about?”