Chapter 38

The news of Xu Duanyi bringing Xie Qingya to the banquet at the Protectorate Duke’s Mansion quickly spread throughout the household.

As Xu Duanyi, accompanied by Bixi, headed toward Xiao Baozhu’s room, she was intercepted midway by Madam Ming, who had specially come out to greet her.

Madam Ming waited by the moon gate leading to the inner courtyard.

Seeing Xu Duanyi approaching from afar, she called out with a smile, “Duanyi!”

Xu Duanyi’s face lit up when she saw Madam Ming.

“Sister-in-law.”

Calling out to her, Xu Duanyi quickened her pace.

When she reached Madam Ming, she smiled and placed her hand in the one her sister-in-law extended toward her. “Why are you waiting here, Sister-in-law?”

“I heard you were coming and came to welcome you.”

Madam Ming chuckled as she spoke, taking Xu Duanyi’s hand affectionately, as if they were real sisters, and leading her toward Xiao Baozhu’s room.

As the daughter-in-law of the Duke’s household heir, Madam Ming had many responsibilities. Even this brief greeting was stolen time between her tasks, as she still needed to attend to other matters.

“Baozhu has asked about you countless times since this morning. She’s been eagerly waiting for you.”

“Thank goodness you’re here. Please keep an eye on her for me. She only listens to you.”

Madam Ming had been fretting earlier.

Her mother-in-law was busy entertaining guests, and she herself had to oversee the kitchen preparations. Without anyone to watch over Baozhu, she worried about potential trouble on such an important, joyous day.

Xu Duanyi had come today intending to help, so she immediately nodded without hesitation.

“Sister-in-law, don’t worry. I’ll watch over Baozhu.”

Her soft words reassured Madam Ming.

Madam Ming smiled with relief, giving Xu Duanyi a fond glance and a gentle pat on her hand.

She had already heard about Xie Qingya’s presence and the earlier events outside. Curious, she sent her maids a few steps back to ensure privacy.

Holding Xu Duanyi’s hand as they walked, she quietly asked, “You and the Prince of Nanan…”

At the mention of that title, Xu Duanyi’s mind was suddenly filled with the memory of what had transpired outside. Her shoulders seemed to still carry the warmth of his touch, and her hands and waist felt the lingering heat as well.

The experience had been surreal, absurdly like the dreams she had once had.

Were it not for her current surroundings, she might have believed she was dreaming again.

But she was the kind of person who found it ridiculous even in dreams when Xie Qingya treated her kindly.

Let alone in front of so many people.

It was utterly shocking.

Noticing her sister-in-law’s curious gaze, Xu Duanyi quickly composed herself and smiled. “The Prince and I are quite well. He… takes good care of me.”

That was what she had always said when asked in public.

Her heart, however, already held an answer.

It must have been because, under the watchful eyes of many, he remembered Aunt Deng’s instructions to take extra care of her. That must have been why he acted that way.

Otherwise, if rumors of discord between them spread, her aunt would be displeased upon hearing of it.

With that thought, she stopped overthinking.

All her doubts dissipated, leaving her calm and poised. Her smile became even more gentle and serene.

Madam Ming observed her.

She had heard similar remarks from Xu Duanyi many times before but had never quite believed them.

She only felt that Duanyi spoke that way to protect her own dignity.

She didn’t want others to pity her.

But how could she believe it?

That Prince of Nan’an, although he no longer frequented those disreputable places, still spent plenty of time at tea houses and opera theaters.

But those weren’t the real issues. What mattered was…

Recently, Duanyi had been visiting the Duke’s manor every few days, sometimes staying late into the night. Yet the Prince of Nan’an hadn’t once come to pick her up.

It had only been half a month since their wedding, and things were already like this.

If she weren’t worried about damaging Duanyi’s reputation, she would have had her husband summon the Prince of Nan’an to the manor to give him a proper talking-to.

She had been concerned that Duanyi would come alone again today.

But unexpectedly, a servant had already come to inform her that Duanyi had arrived with the Prince of Nan’an, and the two appeared quite affectionate, seemingly very much in love.

While the gossipers continued their discussions, she was surprised too.

Still, hearing Duanyi speak so confidently now made her happier than it did suspicious.

No matter what, having the Prince of Nan’an accompany Duanyi today was a good thing; at least it silenced the wagging tongues for now.

In the future, people wouldn’t dare mock Duanyi behind her back as much anymore.

Otherwise, with Duanyi’s marriage going so poorly…

She and her husband would truly lose sleep over it.

“Good, good. That’s good.” Madam Ming patted Xu Duanyi’s hand, exhaling a sigh of relief, repeating her words several times.

Xu Duanyi knew her sister-in-law was genuinely worried for her.

Her heart was touched, but not wanting to get too serious, she teasingly said, “I’ve always told you this, Sister-in-law. You’re the one who didn’t believe it.”

“I only worried about you.”

Madam Ming gave Duanyi a reproachful look.

She didn’t bring up the matter again but said instead, “I’ve already sent someone to notify your cousin. He’ll keep an eye on the Prince of Nan’an, so he won’t suffer any grievances in our house.”

No matter how she felt about the Prince of Nan’an, he was now Duanyi’s husband.

Even if she didn’t care for his reputation, she had to safeguard Duanyi’s.

Hearing this, Duanyi felt a weight lift from her chest.

This had been her greatest concern.

She smiled and thanked Madam Ming.

Madam Ming playfully tapped Duanyi’s hand. “Why so formal with me? Seeing you well is all your cousin, and I need to rest easy.”

She didn’t find it strange that Duanyi would act so cautiously around the Prince of Nan’an.

A woman, once married, tied her fate to her husband, whether she loved him or not.

Their fortunes and disgrace were shared. Duanyi, being wise, wouldn’t jeopardize her own standing.

While the sisters-in-law chatted, they arrived at the Mingzhu Pavilion where Xiao Baozhu lived.

From a distance, they could already hear voices full of compliments for Xiao Baozhu.

In truth, Xiao Baozhu hadn’t made a great match.

Her husband, Liu Xun, was a top scholar from last year’s imperial examination, but he was merely a seventh-ranked Hanlin Academy editor, with no prominent family background.

His father was only a minor county magistrate in Jiujiang, Jiangxi.

Such a position was unimpressive in the capital.

When news spread of Xiao Baozhu marrying Liu Xun, noblewomen in the capital laughed behind her back, calling her foolish for marrying such a man. They predicted she would regret it.

But regardless of their private mockery, none dared insult her openly.

Xiao Baozhu had a bad temper and a powerful family.

Those who provoked her could expect at least a public scolding—if not worse.

Once, someone quarreled with Xiao Baozhu, and in a fit of anger, she threw something and struck them.

It didn’t matter whether they were hurt.

A young lady had once been hit in the forehead with a shattered teacup.

That girl was merely passing by when she got caught in the crossfire.

The incident caused quite a stir, and Xiao Baozhu was placed under house arrest for some time.

Even Empress Dowager Zhao Yu summoned her to the palace for a lecture.

But the Xiao family’s influence was great.

The girl’s father, a lowly seventh-ranked official, couldn’t seek justice. In fact, he and his wife had to bow and apologize to the Xiao family, blaming their daughter for her misstep.

The young lady’s scarred face kept her from going out much, and few remembered her name or appearance.

With such precedents, who would dare challenge Xiao Baozhu?

Flattery was the safer course.

Xu Duanyi listened without reacting, then told Madam Ming, “Sister-in-law, you should go take care of your business. I’ll keep an eye on Baozhu.”

Madam Ming had much to do and couldn’t linger.

She nodded. “Then I’ll leave it to you.”

Xu Duanyi smiled and said it was no trouble.

Watching her sister-in-law leave hurriedly with her maids, Xu Duanyi led Bixi inside.

—-

Weddings involved countless details.

Though today wasn’t her wedding, Xu Duanyi had been busy helping Xiao Baozhu with various tasks.

No one else could manage Baozhu, but she would listen to Duanyi.

By the end of the morning, Xu Duanyi felt more exhausted than she had on her own wedding day.

It was already past the si hour (10:00-11:00 a.m.).

Liu Xun had already entered the residence earlier.

Before the bride’s departure from her family, it was considered inappropriate for the newlyweds to meet. Hence, Liu Xun first went alone to pay respects to Xiao Baozhu’s parents and was now outside drinking with guests in the outer courtyard.

Meanwhile, in the inner courtyard, apart from a few close friends of Xiao Baozhu, all the other women had been invited by Madam Ming to dine outside.

Xu Duanyi was already married.

According to custom, she should have joined the others outside for the meal.

However, Xiao Baozhu refused to let her leave.

Xu Duanyi figured she might still be needed later and, truthfully, didn’t feel inclined to join the gathering outside.

As a married woman, topics of conversation seemed limited.

Those without children talked about their husbands and in-laws, while mothers discussed their children.

Xu Duanyi found she had little in common with them and had no desire to be scrutinized by curious onlookers.

Especially since she had come today with Xie Qingya.

She could already imagine the scene she would face and did not want to be treated like a spectacle.

Therefore, she had someone inform her sister-in-law of her whereabouts and chose to eat quietly in Mingzhu Pavilion with Xiao Baozhu and a few familiar ladies.

After the meal, there was still some time before Xiao Baozhu would leave for her husband’s home.

Xu Duanyi would be accompanying Xiao Baozhu to the Liu household and would need to stay for the evening banquet before returning.

She didn’t want to trouble Xie Qingya to make another trip.

Having him accompany her today was already more than enough; she didn’t want to inconvenience him further or take up more of his time.

With that thought, Xu Duanyi went outside to speak with Bixi.

Tables had also been set up in the courtyard for trusted servants to enjoy the banquet.

When Bixi saw Xu Duanyi, she immediately stood up and approached.

“Madam.”

“Let’s talk outside.”

The two walked out together.

Under the shade of an apricot tree, Xu Duanyi gave her instructions:

“Go find Chang Feng later and have him inform the prince that I’ll be going to the Liu residence and won’t return until night. If he’s done with his meal and has no other matters, he doesn’t need to wait for me.”

Bixi nodded. “I’ll go right away.”

Xu Duanyi made a small sound of acknowledgment.

As Bixi left, Xu Duanyi intended to return inside but felt a bit dizzy from the wine she had drunk during the meal.

Besides, the room was still noisy with chatter and clatter, making her reluctant to reenter just yet.

She decided to take a walk outside, letting the cool breeze clear her head.

Most people were still dining.

Walking slowly along the garden path, she didn’t encounter anyone.

The Duke Protector’s estate was vast and beautifully landscaped.

Strolling alone in the fresh air felt peaceful and refreshing.

As she passed a lotus pond, she heard the distant sounds of men calling out. Realizing that beyond this point was where the male guests dined, she stopped.

Even though she was married, it wouldn’t be appropriate to go there unaccompanied and risk unnecessary trouble.

Her head now clear and the effects of the wine nearly gone, Xu Duanyi turned back.

Unbeknownst to her, Xie Qingya was nearby.

In a waterside pavilion at the center of the lotus pond, Xie Qingya leaned against the railing, drinking alone.

He had no interest in mingling with the other men and engaging in empty politeness.

Especially with despicable men like Xiao Yuanfu and Liu Xun present—he couldn’t bear the sight of them. So, he had excused himself to enjoy a quiet moment.

The Xiao family might lack respectable people, but they did possess exquisite scenery.

The lotus pond was particularly picturesque, offering panoramic views from the pavilion.

Xie Qingya hadn’t expected to see Xu Duanyi here.

He noticed her as she emerged from the peach grove, strolling leisurely as though she were simply enjoying a walk. He remained silent, watching her from a distance.

The wind was strong, tossing his hair into his face. A few strands brushed across his eyes, but he didn’t blink, his gaze fixed on her.

He knew today’s events had caused quite a stir.

He had told himself countless times to keep his distance, that it would be better to avoid her.

But he couldn’t forget the image of her tearful, vulnerable face that night.

He worried that coming alone today would expose her to gossip and ridicule. So, again and again, he let himself draw closer, unable to stay away.

A self-deprecating chuckle escaped his lips.

As he watched her prepare to turn back, he remained silent, simply observing her departure.

Then, a grating voice broke the serenity—

“Cousin!”

Xie Qingya’s expression darkened.

There weren’t many people in the world who could address Xu Duanyi that way, and this voice, in particular, grated on his nerves.

He turned to see Xiao Yuanfu, the source of his irritation, wearing purple—the same color as Xu Duanyi’s dress.

Supported by a servant, Xiao Yuanfu had come out to sober up.

Today was his sister’s wedding, and while he didn’t mind Liu Xun as a brother-in-law—Liu Xun knew how to flatter him—he was already tipsy and not in his best form.

Anyway, it doesn’t matter whom the younger sister marries. Their family isn’t one of those small, insignificant ones, and they don’t need her to marry into a prestigious family to uphold their reputation.

Since Liu Xun is so tactful and considerate, what harm is there in marrying him?

He really didn’t think there was anything wrong with it, especially since Liu Xun had privately sent him quite a few gifts recently.

So, on the day of Liu Xun’s grand wedding, he decided to give him some face. He introduced him to many people closely connected to the Xiao family, effectively elevating Liu Xun’s status.

With all the coming and going, he inevitably drank too much.

Not wanting to embarrass himself, Xiao Yuanfu slipped away quietly with his personal attendant to sober up.

Unexpectedly, upon stepping out, he spotted a graceful figure.

Upon closer inspection, who else could it be but his famously beautiful cousin?

At that moment, a wave of desire surged in Xiao Yuanfu.

He immediately shoved aside his attendant’s support and stumbled toward Xu Duanyi, calling out to her.

Xu Duanyi heard the voice behind her and recognized it before even turning around. She frowned instantly. If there was anyone in the Duke’s household she disliked most, it was undoubtedly this second cousin of hers.

Unlike her capable and well-mannered eldest cousin, this second cousin was a good-for-nothing, a notorious playboy.

People outside often talked about how scandalous Xie Qingai was, but in Xu Duanyi’s view, her second cousin was even worse.

He was a libertine who treated women like playthings.

His second wife hadn’t been gone for long, and yet his backyard was already restless again. Almost every time Xu Duanyi visited the Duke’s estate, she saw unfamiliar women, and she didn’t even need to ask to know that they were his latest conquests.

She couldn’t stand his behavior.

Moreover, Xiao Yuanfu had once harbored thoughts about her.

When she was timid as a child, he had deceived her. If not for Xie Qingai’s timely intervention, who knows what Xiao Yuanfu might have done to her?

Recalling this made her stomach churn with disgust, a sourness rising in her throat.

But she was no longer the Xu Duanyi of the past.

The old Xu Duanyi would have cried when faced with trouble, but now, even with no one around, she wasn’t afraid of this worthless drunkard.

She turned to face him. Seeing how close he had gotten, she ignored his fawning smile and greeted him flatly, “Second Cousin.”

“Ah, no need for formalities, just call me Second Brother like Zhaozhao and Baozhu do. We’re family, after all.” Xiao Yuanfu’s eyes wandered all over her as he spoke.

He was truly drunk.

Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have dared to be so bold.

Alcohol gave cowards courage.

Fueled by drink, Xiao Yuanfu felt emboldened. Looking at Xu Duanyi now, he thought she looked even more radiant since her marriage.

She had always been beautiful since she was a child.

The first time he saw her, he had been captivated.

He was six years older than her, and having been exposed to matters of men and women early, his interest had been piqued when his little cousin returned from Liaodong, looking like a perfect jade doll. He had itched to hold and kiss her.

But over the years, his desire had cooled somewhat.

Despite being a scoundrel, he knew there were people he couldn’t touch. His cousin had been betrothed to their elder cousin Wen Zhao and was nearly destined to be the empress. Even though Wen Zhao was gone now, she remained his aunt’s most beloved treasure. If he dared harm her, not even his parents or grandmother could protect him.

If Xu Duanyi had remained out of reach, he might have continued to revere her as a goddess.

But who could have imagined that this flawless cousin would end up marrying the infamous rogue Xie Qingai?

Xiao Yuanfu never took Xie Qingai seriously. If someone like him could have her, why couldn’t he? Besides, Xie Qingai didn’t seem to care much about her. Did she even understand the pleasures between men and women?

The more Xiao Yuanfu thought about it, the hotter his blood burned. His gaze grew more brazen, his desire to embrace and kiss her surging uncontrollably.

The lust in his eyes made Xu Duanyi’s nausea intensify.

Her face turned cold.

Tired of exchanging words, she addressed his attendant instead. “Second Cousin is drunk. Take him back to sober up. There are many guests in the house today, including ladies. If he causes trouble, will you bear the consequences?”

The attendant trembled and quickly agreed, bowing and scraping before turning to support Xiao Yuanfu.

“Second Master, let’s go rest.”

But Xiao Yuanfu, emboldened by lust, shook him off again. Staggering toward Xu Duanyi, he murmured, “Cousin, dear cousin, I have such a headache, you…”

“Ah!”

As Xiao Yuanfu lunged, Xu Duanyi’s delicate face hardened. She raised her hand, ready to slap him awake.

She wasn’t someone he could touch.

But suddenly, Xiao Yuanfu let out a strange cry, clutching his forehead and stumbling backward with a pained expression.

The scene was so odd that Xu Duanyi froze, unable to understand what had just happened.

Xiao Yuanfu covered his forehead in anger and shouted, “Who? Which scoundrel dared to ambush me?”

It was only then that Xu Duanyi noticed a wine cup near Xiao Yuanfu’s feet. The cup had been hiding in a pile of mud and remained silent, which was why she hadn’t seen it earlier.

Following the direction of the wine cup, Xu Duanyi quickly turned to look behind her.

She saw Xie Qingya walking over from the waterside pavilion along a small bridge.

He maintained his usual air of relaxed indifference.

Completely unconcerned that he was in the Duke of Huguo’s residence, and even less bothered that he had just struck the Duke’s second young master, Xie Qingya lazily responded, “It was me—your grandpa—who hit you. So what?”

As he spoke, he walked over to Xu Duanyi’s side, positioning himself so that she was half-shielded behind him.

He then gave Xiao Yuanfu a quick, disdainful glance from head to toe before curling his lips in a mocking sneer. “Xiao Yuanfu, what were you about to say to my princess consort? Why don’t you tell me instead?”