Chapter 96: Disguise

Zhang Jing Yun picked up Lin Ru Nan on behalf of Meinang and settled her at the Cen residence. He also took the opportunity to check the pulse of Old Master Lin and prescribed him some medicine. He briefly examined the two young children who had been crying non-stop, assuming they were simply tired from the long carriage ride.

Lu Xiang Feng received Zhang Jing Yun’s message and promptly delivered food and drinks, along with porridge specially made for the elderly and young. Meinang had arranged for maids to wait at the Cen residence to serve Lin Ru Nan’s family, with new household items prepared for them. As they settled into the Cen residence, it felt like home with hot tea, warm baths, and comfortable new clothes. The children quickly fell asleep, and Old Master Lin, after drinking half a bowl of porridge, felt noticeably better even before his medicine was delivered.

Madam Zhang, temporarily overseeing the inner courtyard, led several maids forward to greet the new guests, saying to Lin Ru Nan, “From now on, Miss Lin, you are the lady of this residence, and we are here to serve you.”

Lin Ru Nan looked at her and asked, “Is this what Miss Qin said?”

Madam Zhang, puzzled, replied, “Miss, we don’t know of a Miss Qin; we’ve only met Miss Cen.”

Lin Ru Nan smiled, “Alright, Miss Cen it is then. When will she come by?”

Madam Zhang responded, “She’s back and will be arriving soon.”

Meinang didn’t visit the Cen residence until two days later. On the day she bought candied fruits, Bai Zhan nearly spotted her by accident. Cui Xi had reminded her that Lin Ru Nan loved salty olives, candied dates, and spicy tofu, and liked to alternate between sweet and savory flavors. Meinang, amused by the peculiar tastes, refused to let Cui Xi or Cui Sie leave the carriage, fearing they might be recognized.

When Lin Ru Nan finally met Meinang, who was in disguise, there was some hesitation. Lin Ru Nan didn’t recognize her until Cui Xi brought water, and Meinang used it to remove her mask, revealing her strikingly beautiful face. Lin Ru Nan gasped in delight.

Understanding Meinang’s need for secrecy, Lin Ru Nan had her put the mask back on, introducing her to the family elders as “Cen Mei.” Afterward, the two friends strolled around the courtyard, catching up on all that had happened since they last met.

Meinang and Lin Ru Nan got along effortlessly. Their conversation flowed naturally, without awkwardness, making it clear why they had been such close friends. Meinang opened up about her strained relationship with Xu Jun Ying, mentioning that although they had a child, the household had been challenging. Fortunately, Lin Ru Nan, although noble, was open-minded and sympathetic to her friend’s experiences, admiring her resilience and courage.

Lin Ru Nan asked about Zhang Jing Yun, and Meinang explained how he, along with other gentlemen, had come into her life through the business ventures she started to support her family.

Lin Ru Nan, however, expressed concern over her own future marriage prospects. Meinang quickly reassured her, lightheartedly encouraging her, saying she was sure to find a good match.

The next evening, Meinang planned a special treat for Lin Ru Nan, a disguised visit to see a musical performance at Xian Ke Lai, where they could drink and enjoy the show.

Meanwhile, Xu Jun Ying returned home, visited his family, and spent some time talking with the Old Madam. Afterward, he excused himself, heading back to the east courtyard, where a scene played out in which his wife’s maids had prepared for his unannounced return. The tension eased as Xu Jun Ying left the room, unaware of the clever ruse orchestrated by the maids to conceal Meinang’s absence.