Chapter 56

Wen Yuanqiao, though slightly tipsy, was still quite clear-headed. His wife did not permit him to drink too much, especially this month, as he had just recovered from a mild cold. Madam Li had repeatedly forbidden him to return home drunk. Today, he broke the rule, and his wife was bound to be angry.

In truth, he didn’t mind being lightly scolded by Madam Li. However, anger is detrimental to health; over time, it wouldn’t be good for his wife’s well-being.

Just as he was pondering how to resolve this, Wen Yuanqiao happened to find two “saviors.”

Both Pei Jian and Gu Ci were promising young men. At this moment, Wen Yuanqiao brought the two of them into the residence, engaging in conversation in the front courtyard to sober up a bit. This way, his wife wouldn’t find out about his drinking. By doing so, he deftly avoided a potential family dispute—utter perfection.

The only discordant factor was Gu Ci.

Seeing Wen Yuanqiao pulling them toward the Wen residence, Gu Ci quickly declined, “Uncle, I just came out from the residence; I won’t go back in. It’s already late, and Shizhang and I will visit another day.”

As for him, it was acceptable since he was bound to become the son-in-law of this household someday—but why Pei Jian?

They weren’t old family friends; it was late in the evening, so what right did Pei Jian have to enter the Wen residence?

Using Pei Jian’s own words: “Does he deserve it?”

As Gu Ci said this, he broke free from Wen Yuanqiao’s grip on his own.

Wen Yuanqiao, a drunken scholar, stood no chance against the strength of Gu Ci, a young military general. He could only stare helplessly, frustrated. This brat—how could he be so tactless?

He couldn’t help but tighten his grip on the other side of Pei Jian’s sleeve, unwilling to let go.

Pei Jian, with over ten years of experience from a past life, only needed a moment of thought to understand his father-in-law’s intentions. He calmly let Wen Yuanqiao hold his wrist, ignoring the desperate glances from Gu Ci, and pretended to say, “That’s right, Lord Wen. It’s getting late, and you’ve had some wine. You should return home to rest. I’ll visit you another day.”

To Wen Yuanqiao, resting meant exposure. He naturally refused. “You and Jinghe are classmates and live in the same courtyard at the Imperial Academy. There’s no need for such formality. Just call me Uncle, like Qingye does.”

Pei Jian glanced subtly at Gu Ci, then casually retracted his gaze and addressed him differently. “Uncle Wen.”

“I’ve always heard Jinghe mention that your calligraphy and paintings are exceptional, Uncle. I’ve long wanted to seek your guidance but was afraid of being rude and presumptuous,” Pei Jian spoke as if chatting with a close elder, his tone full of warmth and respect. “If you don’t mind, I’ll visit you another day.”

Gu Ci was successfully disgusted by Pei Jian’s behavior.

Wen Yuanqiao, however, was thoroughly pleased. Though he had an average career as an official, his expertise in calligraphy and painting was remarkable. If it were about other topics, Wen Yuanqiao might not have been entirely sincere. But when it came to art and calligraphy, Pei Jian had truly struck a chord with Wen Yuanqiao. Overjoyed, he grabbed Pei Jian’s hand and exclaimed: “Why wait for another day? I recently completed a painting. Come and appreciate it with me!”

Pei Jian hesitated, feigning difficulty. “Wouldn’t it disturb your household?”

“What disturbance could there be?” Wen Yuanqiao waved his hand decisively. “You are always welcome at Uncle Wen’s house. I would be delighted!”

With that, he dragged Pei Jian toward the corner gate. After a few steps, he suddenly remembered Gu Ci and turned back to ask, “Qingye, would you like to come along?”

Gu Ci: … He knew Pei Jian was sly, but he hadn’t expected him to be this sly.

Gu Ci took a few deep breaths, trying to suppress his irritation, and forced a smile. “…Sure, I’d love to admire Uncle’s masterpiece as well.”

Wen Yuanqiao stroked his beard under the moonlight and burst into hearty laughter, clearly in high spirits.

Meanwhile, out of Wen Yuanqiao’s sight, Pei Jian and Gu Ci locked eyes, and the tension in the air was palpable, as though sparks of conflict were already igniting.

Wen Qingheng could never have imagined that Gu Ci would return with his father, and behind them was Pei Jian. Since the night of the Qixi Festival, he had not interacted with Pei Jian.

Wen Qingheng had very complicated feelings toward Pei Jian. He undoubtedly admired Pei Jian’s talent. For any scholar who had spent over a decade studying tirelessly, Pei Jian’s achievement of taking the top three positions in the imperial examinations was an unattainable dream. Whether it was him or Qin Lang, deep in their hearts, they both admired Pei Jian’s talent and naturally felt a sense of closeness to him.

In fact, if it had been Pei Jian, rather than Gu Ci, who first met Nian’er, Wen Qingheng might have found it easier to accept.

But there are no “ifs” in this world.

Nian’er and Gu Ci were deeply in love, so Pei Jian’s attempt to interfere at this point came across as utterly shameless.

Qin Lang, however, had a different perspective. “Those who achieve greatness don’t fuss over trivialities. This is a sign of Shizhang’s determination and his ability to stay unaffected by external distractions.”

Wen Qingheng retorted, “And what if he were unwavering in his determination toward the person you love?”

Qin Lang stammered for a moment, unable to refute, and then became flustered and indignant. “Can’t you wish me well for once?”

This showed that even in the heart of a bystander like Qin Lang, who wasn’t directly involved, Pei Jian’s feelings for Nianxi were considered lacking in decency.

The last time they fought, Wen Qingheng hadn’t held back in targeting Pei Jian. Now, seeing him again, he felt slightly uneasy.

Gu Ci, on the other hand, looked visibly annoyed.

In the study, only Wen Yuanqiao and Pei Jian were present, leisurely discussing books and paintings.

To be precise, it was mostly Wen Yuanqiao who enthusiastically showed Pei Jian his newly acquired famous painting and shared his critique and insights. Pei Jian simply listened with a smile, responding appropriately or asking a question at crucial moments, allowing Wen Yuanqiao to continue speaking without pause.

Gu Ci and Wen Qingheng exchanged glances, notably Gu Ci, who couldn’t get a word in and had to sit there listening to Pei Jian’s subtle flattery.

Eventually, Nianxi got wind of the situation and sent Xing Yue to the front courtyard with a message: “Master, Miss says that Lord Gu has duties tomorrow and should return early. She requests that you don’t keep him too late.”

Only then did Gu Ci’s expression improve.

Master Wen was still reluctant to end things, but as it was late, he had to smile at Gu Ci and say: “Truly, girls side with outsiders. Qingye, my daughter treats you better than she treats her own father.”

Gu Ci quickly stood up, his earlier annoyance vanishing. Indeed, why should he concern himself with Pei Jian? Nianxi didn’t care for Pei Jian in the slightest, so what did it matter how much her father admired him?

In the end, they would become a family. Pei Jian was the outsider. If he fussed too much, he would lose his composure and risk displeasing Master Wen.

“My understanding of calligraphy and painting is rather basic, but tonight, listening to Uncle and Shizhang’s discussions has been thoroughly engaging,” Gu Ci said with a charming smile. “If Uncle doesn’t mind, I would like to ask for your guidance someday.”

Such words were music to Wen Yuanqiao’s ears, and he naturally agreed, saying, “I personally taught Nian’er’s calligraphy from a young age.”

Gu Ci eagerly praised, “No wonder Nian’er’s calligraphy has such strength and character, unlike the typical handwriting of young ladies. It turns out to be thanks to you, Uncle.”

Wen Yuanqiao laughed heartily and humbly responded, “It’s also due to the child’s diligence.”

At this moment, Pei Jian, who had remained silent until now, spoke up. “Uncle Wen, earlier I heard you mention Mr. Zhonglang. I happen to have an authentic piece of his work. I’ll have someone deliver it to you first thing tomorrow morning.”

Wen Yuanqiao was overjoyed, even flattered. Paintings of Buddhist themes had always been his beloved passion. Yet, he had regretted being unable to find an authentic piece despite his search.

“How could I take something so beloved from you? Just lend it to me for a few days so I can make a copy and admire it,” Pei Jian said, glancing at Gu Ci briefly. Without overly declining, he added to Master Wen, “Take your time enjoying it. To me, this is just an ordinary painting, but its true value is realized in your hands.”

“Good, good!” Wen Yuanqiao exclaimed in delight. “You must come to my home more often. I’ve collected many cherished works over the years, and I’d love to discuss them with you at leisure.”

Pei Jian immediately expressed his gratitude, saying, “Most evenings, after leaving the office, I’m all alone. Your kindness, Uncle, is truly touching, and I’ll gladly accept the privilege.”

Wen Yuanqiao patted Pei Jian’s shoulder enthusiastically, his admiration apparent.

“Father, it’s getting late,” Wen Qingheng interjected, feeling compelled to remind him.

In that moment, Wen Qingheng finally understood the struggles of Qin Lang. If Pei Jian continued provoking Gu Ci like this, it would only be a matter of time before Gu Ci would lose his temper and throw a punch. Should that happen, the study would not remain intact.

The chaos from the other day’s scuffle in the side room was still fresh in Wen Qingheng’s memory.

Feeling satisfied, Wen Yuanqiao waved his hand at Wen Qingheng and said, “Go and see Qingye and Shizhang off.”

Wen Qingheng: …

As a father, he cares only about his happiness, disregarding his son’s predicament. Truly inconsiderate!