Chapter 28 : My lady, why are you blushing?

Due to the arrival of Cousin Gu, this evening, Cui Yunxiao and Huo Tan had dinner in the main hall.

By this time, the children of the family had all returned.

When Cui Yunxiao and Huo Tan arrived, they heard Huo Chenzhang say to Huo Xinliu, “There are women’s classes in the academy. Why don’t you go with Ah Pu?”

Huo Xinliu lowered her head and didn’t speak.

Huo Chenzhang glanced at her and then looked at Huo Xinzhi.

Huo Xinzhi was leisurely drinking tea. Cui Yunxiao noticed a red mark on her hand, wondering what she had been up to today.

“What are you looking at?” Huo Xinzhi said, “If you really want the second sister to go, then persuade her yourself.”

Huo Chenzhang was afraid of his elder sister and immediately fell silent when she spoke.

Huo Xinliu seemed to have just come to her senses and said softly, “I don’t want to go.”

Huo Chenzhang could only stand there and sigh.

Cui Yunxiao found this family quite interesting but didn’t interfere. She just sat with Huo Tan, quietly waiting for dinner.

“Little sister-in-law,” Huo Xinzhi glanced at Cui Yunxiao, “The Baihe Academy is good. Thank you.”

She was usually cold and indifferent, but she wasn’t ungrateful. Cui Yunxiao always had a good impression of her from her memories.

Grateful, Cui Yunxiao didn’t decline and simply smiled, “We’re all family. No need to be so polite.”

It seemed that Huo Xinzhi might have visited Baihe Academy today.

Though she usually appeared aloof, she was attentive to her younger siblings.

As they spoke, Tao Fei and the maid entered with plates and bowls.

Behind them was Gu Yinghong.

Gu Yinghong had apparently also helped in the kitchen. She was now sweating profusely, looking both delicate and virtuous.

Perhaps it was a coincidence, but the Old Lady happened to come out of the room and immediately saw Gu Yinghong helping out.

She shot a glance at Cui Yunxiao and said in a sarcastic tone, “Oh, look at our children, they’re so sensible and obedient, knowing how to honor their elders.”

“Unlike some people, who just sit around drinking tea, and I haven’t even received a bit of filial respect from them.”

Cui Yunxiao, along with the others, stood up to greet the Old Lady, smiling genuinely but speaking sincerely, “Grandmother, a big family has big family rules.”

She saw Lin Xiu Gu coming out from another room and stepped forward to take her arm, helping her to the dining table.

“My father was a governor of the sixth rank when he was alive, and he died for his country. Even His Majesty has given praise. We are no longer an ordinary military household.”

“If there is no distinction between master and servant at home, if the rules are chaotic, it will only make others laugh.”

Although these words did not directly criticize Gu Yinghong, they implied that she lacked understanding and didn’t know the rules.

With every word spoken, Gu Yinghong’s face grew paler.

Cui Yunxiao didn’t even glance at her, she looked directly at the Old Lady instead. “Grandmother, the household matters are all handled by the servants. It is improper for guests to be doing the work.”

“It was my mistake today for forgetting to remind Cousin Gu, leading to such a situation.”

“Grandmother and Cousin Gu wouldn’t be angry with me, would you?”

In her previous life, Cui Yunxiao lived cautiously and anxiously, never having a moment of ease.

She had to maintain the dignity of a prominent family and protect the Cui family’s century-old glory, never allowing herself to act on impulse.

She always adhered to the rules, refrained from showing anger, and kept her grievances to herself. Her life with Huo Tan was filled with obstacles, and she never took the time to discuss her feelings with him.

After experiencing so much, she had grown increasingly distant from Huo Tan, leading to their eventual separation.

However, once Huo Tan became emperor, Cui Yunxiao’s life improved.

In the last four years before her death in her previous life, she had lived the most carefree and relaxed days.

Those four years had helped her understand many things and gradually change her overly cautious nature.

Thinking of this, Cui Yunxiao lifted her head and smiled at the Old Lady.

The Old Lady nearly choked with anger.

How could she not be angry? Cui Yunxiao had almost driven her to the brink.

“You… you!”

The Old Lady couldn’t even speak clearly.

Given her age, she could not compete with a young person like Cui Yunxiao in an argument.

Seeing the Old Lady almost about to collapse from anger, Gu Yinghong hurriedly stepped forward to support her.

“Auntie, it’s my fault. Please don’t be angry.”

The more pitiful she seemed, the more biased the Old Lady became.

Unable to hold back, the Old Lady vented her frustration in front of Cui Yunxiao. “I said not to marry this noble lady. Look at how she’s making things uncomfortable for me right to my face. Who is the elder here, her or me?”

Lin Xiu Gu frowned and stepped forward to speak, but Huo Tan waved his hand to stop her.

Huo Tan took a step forward and firmly grasped the Old Lady’s arm.

With his strength, the Old Lady had no chance to resist and was directly pushed back into her chair.

“Grandmother, this marriage was personally arranged by General Lu,” Huo Tan said.

“If you’re not satisfied, you can directly discuss it with General Lu.”

The Old Lady’s expression stiffened. At home, she wielded her authority and made things difficult, relying on the fact that Huo Tan was her grandson. But outside, even in a street like Lotus Flower Lane, she couldn’t make a fuss.

The street was filled with military households.

Faced with Huo Tan’s threat, the Old Lady was embarrassed but dared not truly offend General Lu. She could only snort coldly, “Why is everyone standing around? Let’s eat.”

Thus, the family took their seats and began their meal.

Because of the initial discord, no one spoke during the meal. It wasn’t until halfway through that Huo Xinzhifinally spoke up. “I’ll cook tomorrow. The cook’s skills are truly lacking.”

The cook, Qiao Pozi, was originally from the same village as the Old Lady, which is why she worked in the Huo household. However, her skills were poor, and despite Lin Xiu Gu’s repeated suggestions, the Old Lady had rejected them, so nothing was done.

Over time, everyone had given up and just made do.

Huo XinzhI, who usually avoided causing trouble at home, unexpectedly made this remark today.

The Old Lady glanced at her but did not respond.

Huo XinzhI didn’t continue.

Seeing the atmosphere was a bit cold, Huo Chenzhang took the initiative to speak, “Now that I’m accompanying Ah pu to Baihe Academy, it’s really good there. The teachers are kind, and the students are of various backgrounds, not all from noble families.”

Huo Chenzhang continued, “Ah pu likes it a lot. Don’t you, Ah pu?”

When Huo Chengpu heard his name, he looked up and then lowered his head, responding quietly.

It didn’t seem like he was being forced.

Cui Yunxiao exchanged a glance with Huo Tan and then said, “Since the Twelfth Master likes it, I’ll visit Baihe Academy tomorrow and discuss the Twelfth Master’s situation with Uncle Zhu.”

Seeing this, Huo Chengpu looked at her cautiously, his face full of anticipation.

Cui Yunxiao smiled at him.

Lin Xiu Gu thought for a moment and said, “Eleven Master, you’ll start your classes the day after tomorrow. Accompany the Twelfth Master tomorrow to have a proper look. If the Twelfth Master confirms it, then it’ll be easier for your sister-in-law.”

“This is a matter of adult courtesy. Don’t go and then not attend, making it difficult for your sister-in-law.”

Lin Xiu gu still wasn’t reassured. “I’ll go tomorrow as well. Daughter-in-law, don’t rush.”

Lin Xiu Gu seemed carefree but was also very steady and capable in handling matters.

When Lin Xiu Gu spoke, Cui Yunxiao obediently said, “Yes, I will listen to Mother.”

The Old Lady remained silent, and Gu Yinghong also kept quiet. During the meal, Lin Xiu Gu asked about the Gu family affairs, and Gu Yinghong responded gently.

“Dear Aunt, thank you for your concern. Everything at home is fine.

“A month ago, my sister-in-law gave birth, and both mother and child are safe. My mother and elder brother are very happy and have been taking care of my sister-in-law and nephew. I was the only one who was unwell due to catching a cold. Afraid of passing on illness to the baby, I asked Aunt to bring me back.”

Gu Yinghong looked at Lin Xiu Gu with a pitiful expression. “Thank you, Aunt and Cousin, for your kindness. It’s thanks to your compassion that I have a place to stay.”

Lin Xiu Gu, who was not adept at dealing with such people, was momentarily taken aback by her words and then said, “Just focus on getting better.”

Gu Yinghong nodded obediently.

And so the matter passed. After dinner, Cui Yunxiao mentioned that her wet nurse would be arriving, and Lin Xiu Gu said to let her handle it.

Before the marriage, Lin Xiu Gu had already told Huo Tan that they would make their own decisions in the East Courtyard.

Once a decision was made, there was no reason to change it.

Cui Yunxiao’s dowry was substantial, and how they used it was their own business, but their whole family could not shamelessly use the daughter-in-law’s dowry.

Cui Yunxiao asked Feihong to help in the small kitchen. Lin Xiu Gu had said before that Feihong’s monthly salary would be covered by the family.

At the time, Cui Yunxiao did not agree, but she knew that Lin Xiu Gu was fair in her dealings, and thus she treated her with increasing warmth.

Feelings between people are built up over time.

Having lived through it once, Cui Yunxiao slowly understood this principle.

In her previous life, her parents passed away too early, and no one taught her how to live or how to be a person. She could only explore and stumble forward, ultimately ending up with complete failure.

Thinking of this, Cui Yunxiao couldn’t help but sigh.

Just then, Huo Tan came out of the bath and heard her sigh. He asked, “What’s wrong?”

Cui Yunxiao instinctively looked up and saw the handsome man with black hair falling to his shoulders.

Huo Tan was only wearing a loose inner garment, and the pure white fabric contrasted with the exposed skin of his collarbone, making Cui Yunxiao momentarily dazed.

Huo Tan was tall and handsome, with an excellent physique.

He had broad shoulders and a slim waist, and his long, strong legs indicated great strength.

Usually, it was not obvious when he was dressed, but in his tight-fitting inner garment, he was mesmerizing and hard to look away from.

Especially his black hair…

His hair was loosely scattered, falling in small, uneven strands around his face, softening his sharp features and adding an indescribable charm to him.

The candlelight flickered, casting a captivating star-like glow in Huo Tan’s eyes.

Cui Yunxiao felt her heart pounding rapidly.

Who could remain unaffected by such a handsome man?

Even Cui Yunxiao, who had been through so much with him in her past life, found herself swallowing hard at the sight of such an alluring man.

Huo Tan’s keen eyes instantly noticed Cui Yunxiao’s reaction.

A gentle smile curved at his lips, yet his steps towards her were unwavering.

It seemed he was determined to penetrate her heart.

As Cui Yunxiao was lost in thought, Huo Tan was already standing right in front of her.

The refreshing scent of soapwort from his body enveloped her, and the intense warmth made her face flush.

She tried to compose herself, resisting the urge to look at Huo Tan’s exposed honey-toned chest, but her eyes betrayed her, unable to look away from the allure of him.

Huo Tan’s smile deepened as he slightly bent down, opening his collar even more.

“My lady, why are you blushing?”

His deep voice lingered near Cui Yunxiao’s ear.

“Are you too hot?”

—

Cui Yunxiao had a restless night.

It was unclear whether it was the heat from the incense burner or the lack of ventilation in the tent, but she tossed and turned, waking up twice during the night.

Each time she moved, Huo Tan woke up as well.

On the second wake-up, Huo Tan asked, “What’s wrong?”

His voice was slightly hoarse, whether from exhaustion or heat, it made one feel a tingling sensation inside.

Cui Yunxiao felt even hotter.

She whispered, “It’s a bit warm.”

Huo Tan responded with an acknowledgment.

Then Cui Yunxiao heard him get out of bed, and shortly after, he returned, saying, “I’ve put out the incense burner. It should be better now.”

“Once the snow falls in a few days, it won’t be so hot. We need to warm up the room in the meantime.”

Cui Yunxiao nodded in agreement. Once Huo Tan settled back into bed, she said, “My lord, go to sleep.”

It was probably cooler now, and Cui Yunxiao quickly fell asleep.

The next morning

She naturally woke up late. By the time she woke, the bed had already gone cold, and the tall man had left for his duties.

He had been very careful not to wake her.

Cui Yunxiao lay in bed for a while before calling Li Qing to attend to her.

After she had finished washing and changing, and was sitting in the main hall for breakfast, Tao Fei came in, beaming with joy “Miss, Mother Xia has arrived.”

Cui Yunxiao’s eyes lit up:“Quickly, let Mother Xia come in.”

Tao Fei went out to greet her, and soon Mother Xia entered the hall.

As soon as she came in, she smiled at Cui Yunxiao and said, “I’ve finally arrived to serve you, Miss. I was really anxious these past few days without being here, worrying all the time.”

Since Mother Xia was not a servant but an internal manager of the household, she did not need to refer to herself as a maid.

Cui Yunxiao hurriedly said, “Mother, please sit down and talk.”

Mother Xia nodded, sat down properly on the round stool, and then looked around the room.

“Miss, this place is tidied up quite nicely. It’s clear that Li Qing and the others put in a lot of effort,” Mother Xia said. “Yesterday, I saw that the Young Master has a good temper. Even though your marriage was modest, it was proper and without fault.”

Having seen many people in her time, Mother Xia could often judge the character of young men at a glance, especially their ability to handle affairs and their reliability.

“Look at the Young Master now, still not even of marriageable age, yet he handles things more efficiently than the young masters at home. He has already taken on the responsibility of supporting the household, and he is certainly not someone to be easily deceived.”

“The most important thing is that the Young Master respects you and is willing to live well with you. That is his greatest virtue.”

In her past life, Cui Yunxiao lacked someone with such broad experience to offer guidance.

With Mother Xia now by her side, she felt much more at ease.

Hearing Mother Xia’s heartfelt and considerate words, Cui Yunxiao felt comforted and said, “The only downside is that the residence is a bit small. Mother will have to make do with Li Qing and the others. I’m sorry to trouble you.”

Mother Xia squinted her eyes and smiled.

“To be honest, as long as I can serve you, Miss, I’d be fine even if I had to sleep in a straw hut. From what I see now, the Young Master’s family is truly not lacking in anything. The entire place is clean and tidy.”

“I just passed by the West Courtyard and saw that the household is quiet and quite good.”

Cui Yunxiao nodded and asked if she had had breakfast. Hearing that Mother Xia had already eaten, she continued with her meal.

Seeing that Cui Yunxiao was eating spicy soup, Mother Xia couldn’t help but laugh.

“The household has many rules. It’s not allowed to eat such strongly flavored food early in the morning. Now that you’re married, Miss, you can live more comfortably.”

Mother Xia continued, “A modest marriage isn’t always bad, but it depends on who you marry. The Lu family would not have been a good match. It’s fortunate that you didn’t marry into their family.”

Cui Yunxiao nodded and said, “Mother, you can rest assured.”

Mother Xia continued, “Yesterday I helped the young master and the young lady pack up the things.

In the west wing, Mother Xia also gave some advice to Liu Mother, telling her to keep a close eye on the maidservants and young servants below. “This morning, I accompanied them to the Music Hall. By the time we arrived, the Third Hall Madam had already tidied up the entire residence meticulously.”

Cui Yunxiao smiled and said, “I carefully selected them and felt that the Third Hall Aunt is the least intimidated by the Second Hall Mistress, which is why I sent them to the Music Hall.”

Hearing this, Mother Xia felt quite reassured.

“The Miss has grown up, her thinking is more thorough, and she’s much steadier than before,” Mother Xia remarked. “After all, being married is different from before.”

She rarely expressed such sentiments, but she said, “The Miss used to be too reserved, always mindful of status and rules. But some people are completely shameless, and at times, being too concerned about one’s face can lead to disadvantage.”

Mother Xia’s greatest fear was that Cui Yunxiao would suffer losses.

Seeing her now stand on her own, Mother Xia’s eyes reddened.

“The Master and Mistress passed away early, and I’m of little help. It’s still the Miss who is capable.”

Cui Yunxiao put down her chopsticks and took Mother Xia’s hand.

“Mother, don’t worry. I’ve understood many things now, I’m different from before,” Cui Yunxiao smiled and said. “I can lead a good life and also take good care of my younger siblings.”

Mother Xia lowered her head and wiped her face before continuing, “Yesterday, I went to find the Second Madam. The look on her face was as if she was having flesh cut from her heart.”

Hearing this, Mother Xia immediately became cheerful.

She took out an account book from her sleeve and placed it in front of Cui Yunxiao. “Apart from the dowry you brought when you married, all the dowries of the other madams are recorded here. I have checked them all, and none are missing.”

In front of so many uncles, Cui Xu had promised to return the dowry, so it couldn’t be hidden or stolen, ensuring the count was correct.

Cui Yunxiao thought for a moment and said, “These dowries, the Second Madam initially took advantage of my youth and said she would manage them for the upbringing of my younger siblings. So, they have been in her hands for years. That’s not too concerning.”

She pointed to the properties and fields listed under Fulu and said, “Mother, in the next couple of days, please hire an accountant and visit Fulu to check the situation. Try to replace all the people with those you can trust.”

Mother Xia was straightforward “Alright, I will visit the market tomorrow, choose someone, and bring them for you to see.”

Cui Yunxiao nodded, finally feeling at ease.

Once everything was settled, Mother Xia went to inspect the side rooms. Seeing that the Bisha wardrobe was a bit cramped, she insisted on sleeping there herself, letting Pear Green and Tao Feng stay in the larger room.

Cui Yunxiao did not argue with her and agreed to her wishes.

After all the arrangements, it was already noon.

Cui Yunxiao did not go to the main courtyard this time.

Cui Yunxiao only had lunch in the east wing with Mother Xia and the others.

Starting today, Ho Tan would be heading to the Wuli Po military camp and wouldn’t be back for lunch, so Cui Yunxiao’s meal was simple.

After lunch, Cui Yunxiao sent Pear Green to the main courtyard to check on things and then took Mother Xia to see Lin Xiu Gu.

The main hall was quiet at this time. Lin Xiu Gu was in her room doing some mending. When she saw Cui Yunxiao, she smiled and invited her to sit down and chat.

Cui Yunxiao introduced Mother Xia and then asked, “I heard that Eleventh and Twelfth Brothers have returned. How did things go at the White Crane Academy?”

Lin Xiu Gu greeted Mother Xia before smiling and replying.

“Twelfth Brother said he went and found the White Crane Academy to be very good,” Lin Xiu Gu said with great feeling. “Daughter-in-law, you’ve taken on quite a task with this. If you need any supplies or gifts for the apprenticeship, make a list and I’ll arrange them for you.”

Cui Yunxiao smiled and said, “Thank you, Mother.”

“I’ll go to the Baihe Academy later,” she added, “to meet with Uncle Zhu and discuss Twelfth Brother’s situation.”

Lin Xiu Gu was very pleased.

Since Ho Zhan’s death, she had only felt such joy on Ho Tan’s wedding day, and now she had that feeling again.

Lin Xiu Gu was very grateful to Cui Yunxiao because these two instances of happiness were brought to her by Cui Yunxiao.

Suddenly, Lin Xiu Gu remembered something and said, “Oh yes, daughter-in-law, this morning Ninth Brother told me that he had already informed Fang’s Carriage and Horse Company. If the family needs a carriage, just have Ping Shu call them, and they’ll come immediately.”

Cui Yunxiao was a bit surprised.

But thinking of Ho Tan’s character, it was not entirely unexpected.

Although Ho Tan was a military general, he was a very meticulous person who could generally guess what others needed.

However, he never seemed to guess what she truly wanted in her previous life.

Cui Yunxiao smiled, though the smile didn’t reach her eyes.

When Mother Xia and Ping Shu got the carriage ready, Cui Yunxiao put on her cloak and let Mother Xia carry the prepared gifts as they left.

The Baihe Academy was located in Boling City. Being newly established, it wasn’t very large and wasn’t as grand as some of the older academies.

But its white walls and green tiles, along with its winding paths, gave it a certain serene charm.

As the carriage moved through the city, Cui Yunxiao looked out the window.

Mother Xia was speaking to her, but suddenly Cui Yunxiao couldn’t hear anything.

Because she saw Ho Tan.

Ho Tan was currently riding a chestnut horse, dressed in a smart green riding outfit, and exuded an otherworldly aura.

A squad of soldiers, all cavalry, followed behind him.

The soldiers at the military camp also have duties in the city, but their tasks are roughly the same, with rotations typically occurring every ten days.

Perhaps by coincidence, today Ho Tan had just returned from training and had arranged patrol duties.

Mother Xia noticed that Cui Yunxiao’s gaze became fixed and went over to see what was happening. “What’s wrong, Miss? Oh, isn’t that the Master?”

Cui Yunxiao nodded but didn’t keep her eyes solely on Ho Tan.

She noticed that right beside Ho Tan was Bau Xiaochuan.

Given that Bai Xiaochuan was the youngest and least skilled among Ho Tan’s troops, it was unusual for him to be assigned as Ho Tan’s aide. The tall soldiers following him seemed out of place for him.

Cui Yunxiao’s heart sank slightly.

Was Bau Xiaochuan truly one of Ho Tan’s trusted confidants?

Cui Yunxiao was so tense she didn’t realize she was gripping her palm so tightly that the veins on the back of her hand were distinctly visible.

Mother Xia was startled.

She quickly took Cui Yunxiao’s hand and softly called out to her, “Miss, I’m here. I’m here.”

Experienced, Mother Xia recognized that Cui Yunxiao was trapped in a mental struggle and couldn’t escape it.

Seeing Cui Yunxiao’s eyes reddening, Mother Xia was concerned.

Determined, she smacked Cui Yunxiao’s arm hard, making a crisp sound.

The force was not light.

Cui Yunxiao was jolted awake by the pain, instantly feeling a sharp sting in her palm.

She instinctively released her grip and looked down to see she had drawn blood from her own hand.

Mother Xia was heartbroken. “Miss, what’s wrong? If you have any difficulties, you can tell Mother.”

Cui Yunxiao slowly shook her head.

The cold wind blew in through the window, bringing with it the chill of winter, making her feel cold to the core.

She could tell Mother Xia about everything, but this particular matter was something she couldn’t speak of, no matter what.

Who would believe in such obscure and confusing matters?

Cui Yunxiao blinked, then lowered her head to wipe her face, finding that there were no tears this time.

Thankfully, she hadn’t cried again.

Cui Yunxiao reached out, hugging Mother Xia’s arm and burying her face in Mother Xia’s embrace.

It was the long-missed scent of a mother.

Her voice was hoarse, filled with unspoken weariness and pain.

“Mother, I just suddenly feel a bit tired.”

“Let me sleep for a while. Maybe a nap will make it better.”