Dream of the Red Chamber

Chapter 164 Xue Pan's Marriage Discussion
After shaking her head, Qingwen continued to look at Chen Siyuan and smile, feeling extremely happy. She had stayed up for two nights, looking forward to delivering the gift at noon, but Chen Siyuan still hadn't arrived at noon.

Unable to bear it any longer, Qingwen took a short nap, feeling faintly disappointed, thinking that Chen Siyuan would not come today. But when she opened her eyes, she saw Chen Siyuan, drunk, teasing her.

It is difficult to tell outsiders about the feeling and the ups and downs of my emotions.

She lowered her head slightly, and suddenly saw her dress open, revealing a close-fitting garment underneath. Qingwen's pretty face flushed immediately, and she quickly fastened the collar, slipping off her embroidered shoes and saying with a smile, "I'll go get you a cup of tea."

Chen Siyuan pulled her hand and said, "No hurry, I'm leaving now."

Qingwen frowned and said, "Master, you reek of alcohol. You need to sober up. There's no time for sobering soup. How about some sour plum soup?"

Chen Siyuan couldn't refuse her kindness, so he nodded and said, "Okay, sour plum soup then."

Qingwen said jokingly, "The sour plum soup I bought this morning is still being cooled in the well water. I'll serve you a bowl right away."

Qingwen left in a flash, and after a while, she brought a bowl of warm sour plum soup.

Chen Siyuan took it and took a sip. He felt his mouth water, so he gulped it down in one gulp. He smiled and praised, "Not bad. This sour drink really gave me a jolt. It really sobered me up a bit."

He immediately stood up and said, "If you have nothing to do this afternoon, just sleep a little longer. I'll come back tomorrow at noon."

"Hey? Sir, please wait a moment." Qingwen called him, pulled the sweat towel from her waist, raised her feet and raised her hand to wipe the corner of his mouth.

After wiping a few times, her moist eyes met Chen Siyuan's. Qingwen was slightly flustered, glanced at him, and quickly lowered her head, saying, "Okay, I'll take you there—Ouch."

With a cry of "ouch," Qingwen was embraced by Chen Siyuan. Then she heard Chen Siyuan's voice in her ears: "I am very proud of this gift. Thank you very much."

Qingwen, still curled up in Chen Siyuan's arms with her legs crossed, could hear her heartbeat pounding, and her heart became increasingly flustered. She spoke incoherently, "This is my duty. Master... there's no need to say this."

Chen Siyuan laughed, let go of her body, reached out and rubbed her hair, turned around and left: "I'm leaving, you don't have to see me off, just rest."

"Yeah." Qingwen responded, but was stunned for a moment, then bit her lower lip and chased after him.

After being escorted out of the courtyard, Qingwen leaned against the door and watched Chen Siyuan leading the servants striding eastward. Then the sound of a gong was heard from the Imperial College, and the master and servant immediately ran away.

When he reached the alley entrance, Chen Siyuan stopped, turned around, waved to Qingwen, and then ran away again.

Qingwen leaned against the door with a smile on her face, her eyes moving around, and no one knew what she was thinking about, but she sneered and covered her mouth with her hands.

As soon as the door closed, Madam Qu came over with a smile and said, "What did I say? The master is worried about the young lady. Not to mention that he was delayed, he would come to see the young lady even if it rained knives from the sky."

Qingwen was delighted, but she said angrily, "Madam, if you say that again, I won't tolerate it."

Nanny Qu said, "I'm only telling the truth, and I'm not gossiping..." Seeing Qingwen frown, Nanny Qu smiled and said, "...Forget it, the young lady is too young to hear such things, so I won't say anything."

Qingwen fell silent and was about to return to her room to rest when she heard a knock on the door behind her. Before Qingwen could say anything, Madam Qu came over, wiping her hands and asking from a distance, "Who is it?"

Immediately, a female voice asked, "Excuse me, does Qingwen live here?"

Qingwen was puzzled and frowned. She ordered, "Madam, open the door and take a look."

Nanny Qu agreed and opened the door. Qingwen looked up and saw Lai Dajia stopped in front of the door.

"Auntie Lai?" How could it be this person?

Because of the previous master-servant relationship, Qingwen approached with curiosity and asked, "Why are you here, Madam?"

Lai Dajie smiled and said, "Let me take a look at you—" He carefully looked you up and down a few times, then smiled and praised, "—Look at this silk dress, and then look at this fair and rosy little face. Wow, I guess you're living a very good life."

"Aunt Lai, you're joking." After a pause, Qingwen made way for him and said, "Aunt Lai, please come in and chat."

Lai Dajia agreed and handed over the basket he was carrying, saying, "I didn't know what to buy when I came here, but I remembered you liked water chestnut cakes, so I bought some."

Qingwen thanked her, handed the basket to Madam Qu, led Mrs. Lai inside, and personally served her warm tea.

Lai Dajia glanced around and had an idea. This small courtyard looked small, but what master would rent it to house a maid? That would be fine, but he even hired two maids to take care of it... Tsk tsk, Qingwen really did catch Chen's fancy, otherwise why would she treat him so well?
Seeing Qingwen about to start cutting fruits and vegetables again, Lai Dajie took her hand and sat down aside, saying, "Don't bother. I just ate at home and can't eat right now. Let's sit down and talk for a while."

Qingwen sat down aside with her lips pursed.

Then Lai Dajia questioned her carefully, asking when she came here, how much silver she received monthly, how her clothes for four seasons were calculated, and how much the monthly wages for the two maids were.

After everyone had heard everything, the one who blamed everyone said, "The Madam wanted to kick you out that day. We couldn't stop you, and we didn't dare to stop you. So we had no choice but to go and ask Master Yuan for help. Fortunately, Master Yuan was kind enough to take you in."

There were some things that Chen Siyuan did not explain in detail, so Qingwen was always confused. She just thought that Mr. Yuan was sent by God to rescue her. Who knew that there was something for the Lai family to ask for help?

Lai Dajie pulled Qingwen's hand and said, "I originally thought that if you were unhappy, I would take you home..."

Qingwen hurriedly said, "I, I'm doing fine now. I was rescued by the master some time ago, and he put me up here. He comes to visit every day at noon..."

Lai Dajie smiled meaningfully and said, "I see... Mr. Yuan treats you like a treasure. What other maid would rent a courtyard all to herself and hire a maid to take care of it? I'm relieved that you're living a happy life now." Seeing Qingwen lower her head shyly and remain silent, Lai Dajie added, "Yes, your cousin's wife was also settled in the Rongguo Mansion some time ago."

Qingwen's brows furrowed as if a charcoal had exploded, and she sneered, "Auntie, please don't mention my cousin. I was so sick I was nearly dying, and he waited a few days to come see me, only to rush me away so he could spend the bridal chamber with his bride. I was so considerate of our kinsman, but who knew he was such a black-hearted, ungrateful wretch!"

"Is there anything else going on?"

Qingwen was furious when she thought about it, and immediately told everyone what had happened in the past few days. When she heard that Chen Siyuan had asked a doctor to treat her overnight, Lai Dajie was completely relieved.

The Lai family has a close relationship with Qingwen. Ever since Qingwen followed Chen Siyuan, the Lai family has been secretly looking for Qingwen's whereabouts, but they only received news in recent days.

The Chen man was not easy to deal with, and he was gaining power. The Lai family, accustomed to being servants, had naturally mastered the art of flattery. Thinking that the Chen man might one day pass the imperial examination, whether to pave the way for Lai Shangrong or to connect Lai Sheng's two sons, they had to make peace with the Chen man and establish a good relationship with him. That's why the Lai family came to visit.

After Qingwen finished her angry words, Lai Dajie said, "You are a lucky person. I think this Master Yuan is even better than Master Bao."

Qingwen hummed in agreement, but inwardly she was disapproving, wondering how could Master Yuan compare to Master Bao. Despite their age difference, their ways of dealing with the world were worlds apart. While both treated her well, Master Bao would sometimes argue and sulk with her, but Master Yuan never did. He was even more experienced in handling external affairs, never causing anyone any worry.

Lai Dajie observed his expression and whispered, "You... climbed into Master Yuan's bed?"

Qingwen blinked and immediately shook her head: "What are you talking about, Auntie? I, I would never do such a stupid thing!"

Lai Dajie laughed and said, "It's just a casual question. Besides, this matter will come sooner or later. Are you going to keep it for the rest of your life?"

Qingwen remained silent. She couldn't bring herself to climb into Master Yuan's bed. She earned her living by her own abilities, so she wouldn't try to imitate a seductress like that. As for sharing in Master Yuan's sexual pleasures, she was perfectly willing to do so.

Lai Dajie tried to persuade him, "You don't know, now that Master Yuan has become powerful and handsome, who knows how many seductresses will come knocking on your door. You can't lose face, but those seductresses won't care. As the saying goes, every failure makes you wiser. I'm not trying to persuade you to be a bad person, but look at Xiren, who's staying by Master Bao's side. Why hasn't she been driven out?"

After a pause, he continued, "Men, especially those as proud and arrogant as Master Yuan, are the most protective of the women they have had physical contact with. If you don't plan for it now, you'll probably have to worry about it in the future."

Qingwen was immediately annoyed and said, "Madam, your words are getting more and more outrageous. If you keep going like this, I will go back to my room."

Lai Dajie smiled and said, "Okay, okay, I won't say anything more. Just figure it out on your own."

After lingering for a while, Lai Dajie stood up and said goodbye, saying that he couldn't leave his family at home, and was about to return to Rongguo Mansion.

Qingwen sent him out the door and then returned to her room thoughtfully.

............................................................

But that afternoon, when the Imperial College was dismissed, Chen Siyuan hurriedly said goodbye to his friends and took a carriage straight back to Rongguo Mansion.

He was very busy today. He would soon set up a banquet in the courtyard, listen to an opera, and play with the other Jia sisters. In the evening, he would go to Little Flower Branch Lane again.

Thinking of this busy schedule, Chen Siyuan couldn't help but smile and sigh.

The accompanying servant saw through the window and asked, "Why are you sighing, Master?"

"I'm sighing. Being so popular can be a bit tiring sometimes."

The servant Qingyu was very surprised. When he was about to ask again, he saw Chen Siyuan leaning back with his eyes closed to rest.

The carriage sped along, crossing the inner city and arriving at Ningrong Back Street in less than two minutes. Chen Siyuan stepped out of the carriage and leisurely entered Rongguo Mansion through the back door.

Arriving at the door of his house, he could faintly hear the sound of stringed instruments, and then the little maid Yunxiang came out to greet him happily: "Master is finally back, everyone can't wait any longer."

Chen Siyuan smiled and said, "Go and invite the girls over. We'd better start the feast sooner rather than later."

Yunxiang agreed happily and left without saying anything more.

Chen Siyuan went inside, washed off the dust, changed his clothes, and waited a moment before coming to the door to greet them. A little later, the three sisters arrived first, followed by Baoyu, Daiyu, and Baochai.

Everyone congratulated them. The second girl Yingchun gave a net scarf, the third girl Tanchun gave a pair of shoes, Daiyu gave a purse she embroidered herself, Baojie gave a bag of camphor incense, and the fourth girl Xichun was the most unique and gave a sachet filled with five-colored beans.

Chen Siyuan thanked them all, but frowned when he glanced at Xiao Xichun's sachet. Chen Siyuan had been born on the same day as the Bodhisattva Galan, so the five-colored beans he received on that day were meant to establish a bond.

Chen Siyuan felt deeply for Xichun and couldn't help but worry that she would be seduced by Buddhism again, just like in the book. She was so young, so ignorant of human affairs, how could she be expected to worship Buddha?

Because Feng Jieer was very busy that day, she sent Ping Er to come and complain, saying that she really had no time today.

Chen Siyuan naturally didn't care, but Ping'er mentioned this matter, and suddenly whispered, "Master Yuan, please spare me a moment to talk."

Chen Siyuan agreed, and the two of them walked to the corner. Ping'er rustled and pulled a piece of paper from her sleeve, handing it to Chen Siyuan, saying, "This is our grandmother's pulse diagnosis. I asked Imperial Physician Wang for it today. Master Yuan gave us the Huanchun Pill a while ago, and our grandmother took it every day without caring about anything else. I'm really worried about her. If she gets sick from it, it's a serious matter."

Chen Siyuan's expression suddenly turned serious and he said, "If I had known this would happen, I should have asked my second sister-in-law to check his pulse before sending him. This time, I am to blame."

Ping'er quickly shook her head and said, "Master Yuan is so kind, how can I blame him? It's just that our grandmother is a little impatient, and she's been so busy with work lately." After a pause, she continued, "I think this isn't a solution, so I asked for the pulse diagnosis. I'd like Master Yuan to give it to Doctor Ding for review. If it's not suitable, at least stop using the Huanchun Pill to avoid damaging her health."

"Okay, I'll send the servant over later. I'll definitely have a reply tomorrow."

Ping'er then smiled and bowed, "Thank you, Master Yuan... In that case, I'll be leaving now. Master Yuan, please stay."

Chen Siyuan sent him out the door before turning around.

At this time, the banquet had already been set up in the hall, and twelve little actors had gathered together, chattering and discussing the outline of the play.

Chen Siyuan entered and took the main seat, with Baoyu on his left and little Xichun on his right. Immediately, the second young lady, Yingchun, handed him a memorial and said, "Today is the day for the birth of a child, so it's your turn to choose a few."

Chen Siyuan did not refuse. He took the memorial and looked through it, then chose "The Story of the Southern Capital".

The memorial was returned to Yingchun, who then ordered a play called "Lion Camel Ridge".

Later, according to their age, Baochai chose "The Story of a Broken Engagement", Baoyu chose "The Story of the Jade Hairpin", Daiyu chose a scene from "The Twin Golden Flowers", Tanchun chose "Mu Guiying Takes Command", and little Xichun chose "Five Daughters Paying Homage to Their Birthday".

The pieces were called out, and Hongyu wrote them down one by one, then took the surcharge and went outside to give her instructions. The twelve young actors had practiced diligently every day, and they knew the pieces on the surcharge by heart.

There was no need to tell him to do so. The pipa, yangqin and erhu played together, and the little actor, who had dressed up, came to the courtyard and began to sing.

Everyone toasted Chen Siyuan again, and then they started eating, drinking and listening to the music.

Chen Siyuan glanced at Daiyu a few times, but Daiyu didn't look at him. He thought to himself that it would be impossible to exchange glances with Sister Lin in such an occasion. On the contrary, Sister Bao was a little strange. When she looked at her, her face turned slightly red. Chen Siyuan talked with everyone for a while, then went back to eating and drinking. After a while, he saw that Xiao Xichun seemed distracted, so he asked, "Why did Fourth Sister think of giving you the five-colored beans?"

Xichun turned her head and asked in surprise, "Brother Yuan, don't you know the story of the five-colored beans?"

"But a bond?"

"Yes, that's right." After a pause, Xichun leaned forward and whispered, "Brother Yuan, is it true that we can be destined to be together in this life?"

"That's hard to say. Confucianism doesn't believe in reincarnation." Chen Siyuan said, "But I personally believe in it."

Otherwise, how could he have lived again in this life?
He paused, and because he was worried about Xichun being seduced by Buddhism, he turned and said, "Since we don't know our past lives in this life, how can we know our future lives in this life?

The Buddhist scriptures say that all conditioned phenomena are like dreams, illusions, and bubbles. This seems to mean that we should not worry about this life or the next, and why should we establish connections? Those who say this are nothing more than vulgar and evil monks and nuns who want to spread their talk of karma and deceive people.

Who knew that Xichun, though young, had a good understanding of Buddhism through her association with Miaoyu. Upon hearing this, she said, "The theory of reincarnation may not be credible, but Confucianism has never abolished the concept of retribution. What does this mean?"

Chen Siyuan pondered, "Buddhism emphasizes qi, so its concept of retribution is a bit too figurative, hence the talk of heaven and hell. Confucianism emphasizes reason, and its concept of retribution seems unfounded, but in fact it does have a basis. Just like what Mencius said, 'He who kills his father will have his father killed. He who kills his brother will have his brother killed.' Isn't this retribution?"

Xichun said, "I've always been a nonbeliever. How many people don't follow Buddhism and respect monks and nuns? I remember Han Changli's saying, 'Destroy the person and burn the book.' It's really a bit too much."

Chen Siyuan laughed and said, "Han Changli was a great scholar. Buddhism and Taoism are ways of transcendence, and they are not suitable for governing a country or a family. Moreover, if the world were filled with Buddhists and Taoists, without engaging in production or having children, wouldn't the world be completely extinct?"

Xichun pouted and said, "If that's the case, then we shouldn't keep the Fo and Lao families. Why not get rid of them all at once?"

Chen Siyuan said, "It's simply because people are greedy. The rich dream of even greater wealth in the next life, while the poor long for a life of bliss. While the teachings of Buddhism and Taoism can't change the situation, they can soothe people's hearts, and that's why they've never been eradicated throughout the dynasties."

Little Xichun nodded naively: "That does make some sense."

Chen Siyuan was afraid Xichun might go astray, so he added, "If Fourth Sister is free someday, I'll take you to see the filthiness of that peaceful place. I'm afraid by then you won't have the heart to argue with me anymore."

"Is there such a thing in a peaceful place?"

Chen Siyuan asked, "Why else would Zhineng be silent?"

Xichun said, "I heard it myself. It was said that she fell in love with Zhong Ge'er and returned to secular life. I don't know where she is now."

Just then, as the first act ended, Chen Siyuan paused, joining the crowd in applauding. When the next act began, he tilted his head and whispered, "Sansheng Temple. But her baby is about to be born, isn't it?"

Xichun was startled and cried out in surprise, "Child?"

Seeing that Tanchun had looked over, Xichun quickly covered her mouth and smiled. After her third sister turned her head away, she whispered, "Brother Yuan, please explain clearly. How did you get the child? Didn't Brother Zhong... pass away?"

Chen Siyuan said, "I also learned about it by chance... Zhineng couldn't return to Mantou Temple, so he went to Sansheng Temple. Later, a wealthy family paid money to take him home. But after just over a month, she became pregnant and is now resting in Sansheng Temple."

Seeing that he was still confused, Chen Siyuan explained again the origin of the word "Chong Er" under Mount Tai.

After hearing this, Xichun despaired and said, "If the pure land is not pure, where else in the world can there be peace?"

Chen Siyuan advised, "Sister, if your heart is pure, you will naturally be pure. Why do you need to seek help from the Buddha?"

Xichun just shook her head and said nothing.

Chen Siyuan knew Xichun's worldview was completely shattered, and he feared she wouldn't listen to anything he said. Rather than let this happen, it would be better to wait until another day to persuade her. On the bright side, however, Xichun likely wouldn't become obsessed with Buddhist scriptures, and would instead remain a quiet Buddhist monk, content with her company.

The banquet did not end until the hour of Xu. Chen Siyuan said goodbye to each of the sisters one by one and then hurried to Xiaohuazhi Lane.

This night, the word "insect" must have been written on the door of the Little Flower Branch Lane. It was truly a time of unpredictable events, and the situation inside was untold to outsiders.

............................................................

A dozen days passed, and it was already the end of May. Jia Lian returned from Ping'an Prefecture. Because the heat was unbearable, Jia's mother decided to go to Haidian Village to escape the heat.

As soon as this proposal was made, the sisters were delighted, and Baoyu was even more excited. He went home every day to find Grandmother Jia and asked her when they would set off.

With the quarterly exams approaching in June, Chen Siyuan has been extremely well-behaved these days. Even on his days off, he only spends the night in Xiaohuazhi Lane, and spends the rest of his time studying.

On May 26th, a large group of over a hundred people, including Jia's mother, Li Wan and her son, Sanchun, Daiyu, and Baochai, boarded sedan chairs and carriages to escape the summer heat at the Haidian farm. Only Lady Wang and Sister Feng were left at home to look after the family. Lady Xing, who was too far along to work, had to stay in the east wing to rest and take care of her pregnancy.

One day, Chen Siyuan returned from school and had just sat down at home to rest when Liu Yan'er came to his house with her little maid Zhen'er.

Chen Siyuan was very puzzled. They had no contact since their last falling out. He didn't know why Liu Yan'er came here at this time.

He frowned, intending to avoid her, believing that Liu Yan'er wouldn't be able to stir up any trouble. But as if she had guessed his thoughts, Liu Yan'er pleaded outside the door, "Brother, please at least see me for the sake of our relationship as master and servant. I really have no choice!"

Chen Siyuan thought for a moment, then said to Hongyu, "Forget it, let her in."

Hongyu pouted and said, "She was your former maid after all. Isn't it up to you to decide whether to see her or not?"

He turned around and went out to bring Liu Yan'er in. Chen Siyuan looked up and saw that Liu Yan'er had a sad face.

Chen Siyuan was secretly happy, thinking that Liu Yan'er was just acting again.

As soon as Liu Yan'er entered, she paid her respects with great ceremony.

Chen Siyuan quickly winked at Hongyu, who stepped forward to help her up, frowning and saying, "Sister Yan'er, why are you doing this? Although you were Master's maid before, things are different now."

Liu Yan'er's face was filled with sorrow as she pleaded, "Sister, could you allow me to have a few words with Master in private?"

Hongyu remained silent, so Chen Siyuan said, "You guys should leave first."

Hongyu responded and led Zhen'er and Liu Wu'er out.

Only two people were left inside. Liu Yan'er's face lost its sadness, but instead became extremely anxious. She said, "I wasn't lying just now. I really do have something to ask you, brother. Brother, do you know that my concubine is going to arrange a marriage for Xue Pan soon?"

Chen Siyuan was puzzled and asked, "There's such a thing? What's the matter? Are you afraid that the new grandmother won't tolerate you after she comes home?"

Liu Yan'er nodded repeatedly and said, "That's exactly what I'm afraid of. I've been keeping an eye on the Madam these past few days. Yesterday, I heard that she'd chosen the Xia family from Guihua. This morning, I sacrificed my dignity and asked a servant to go and investigate. Who knew that the Xia family's daughter had a very bad reputation? She's spoiled, willful, vicious, and cruel. Not to mention anything else, I don't know how many of her maids have been beaten to death!"

If a woman like this becomes a grandmother, how can I still have my good son?"

Osmanthus Xia family... Xia Jingui? How come after all this twists and turns, Xue Pan's marriage is back on track? Wouldn't all the words I spoke to Baochai and Aunt Xue have been in vain?

Chen Siyuan pondered to himself that if Xia Jingui truly intended to torture and kill Liu Yan'er, Liu Yan'er might be doomed. If his impersonation were ever exposed, Chen Siyuan would have no worries, as he had the noble Prince Yanping to protect him. His only concern was that he might no longer be able to stay in the Rongguo Mansion.

It's not a good thing that I can neither get along with my sisters nor take care of Mrs. Xing and her son.

Chen Siyuan then asked, "How can I help you? The concubine is choosing a daughter-in-law, so she won't listen to me, right?"

Unexpectedly, Liu Yan'er said, "Brother, you don't know. The reason our wife is so anxious to choose a marriage for our master is because of your advice. I vaguely heard that day that our wife will come to you for advice when she has time in the next two days. I only hope that you will just say something and let me stay here!"

Chen Siyuan didn't hesitate and nodded immediately, saying, "Well, since you said so, I will tell the truth when my concubine comes to ask."

Liu Yan'er immediately breathed a sigh of relief, bowed, and said, "Thank you, brother. There are so many people outside and it's hard for me to stay any longer. I'll be leaving now."

"Ah."

Chen Siyuan watched Liu Yan'er leave quickly. Soon after, Hongyu came in and said, "What is Yan'er asking for?"

Chen Siyuan didn't hide it and said, "My concubine has chosen a marriage for Wenlong. Liu Yan'er heard about the girl's character and is worried that her future will be bad, so she came to me for help."

Hongyu curled her lips and said, "Master, being a master is almost as good as being a father."

Chen Siyuan said casually, "You screamed a lot last night."

Hongyu immediately covered her face with her hands in shame, stamping her feet and saying, "If you keep talking nonsense... I'll ignore you!"

Seeing Liu Wu'er walking in with a puzzled look on her face, Hongyu quickly hid in the study.

Chen Siyuan began to wonder if Aunt Xue really wanted to come to him for advice.

Sometimes, whatever he thought of really came true. He had just entered the study and was browsing through some books when the little maid Yunxiang called out, "Master, the concubine is here to visit!"

Chen Siyuan put down his book, feeling increasingly strange. Perhaps his relationship with the Xue family wasn't that good, he thought. Previously, they had a quarrel because of Liu Yan'er, and he had forced Xiangling to come over. Later, as they gradually became more reciprocal, they finally put the matter behind them. A while ago, he had offered Aunt Xue two strategies... Why did it seem like Aunt Xue trusted him even more now?
Keeping the strange feeling in his heart, Chen Siyuan did not dare to delay and quickly stood up to meet him.

When they arrived at the door, they saw Aunt Xue leading the group of friends approaching.

Chen Siyuan bowed in greeting. Aunt Xue's heart skipped a beat when she saw him. She suppressed her worries and said with a smile, "My brother is always so rude. If you continue like this, I won't dare to visit you in the future."

Chen Siyuan smiled and stood up: "Madam, please come in."

"Hey," Aunt Xue replied, and as she walked, she continued, "It's hot now, and we just made some sour plum soup. I thought Yuan-ge was still studying hard, so I sent some over."

Chen Siyuan turned his head and saw Tongxi holding a colorful glass water bottle in his hand.

After Aunt Xue sat down, Chen Siyuan said, "Thank you for your concern, Auntie. I've been having a bit of a summer's heat lately, and I was just thinking of making some cool drinks to whet my appetite. Unexpectedly, Auntie sent them over."

"Oh, then I made the right gift." Covering her mouth with a smile, Aunt Xue said directly, "I won't talk nonsense, so as not to delay Brother Yuan's studies. I came here today because I have something to discuss with Brother Yuan."

Sure enough.

Chen Siyuan smiled and said, "My dear Auntie, you are too polite. Just say it."

Aunt Xue said, "I think Pan'er is not young anymore and it's time for her to find a husband. I've been looking around these past few days, especially at the homes of old relatives and friends, and I've found a suitable match. This girl's maiden name is Xia, she's only fourteen years old, and she'll be coming of age next year."

But my father died early, and I have no brothers, so now I live with my widowed mother alone."

Chen Siyuan asked, "But is it the Guihua Xia family?"

Aunt Xue was surprised and said, "Yes, it is the Guihua Xia family... How did Brother Yuan know?"

Chen Siyuan didn't answer. After a moment of hesitation, he winked at Hongyu, who then led Xiangling and Liu Wuer out.

Aunt Xue knew that Chen Siyuan had some things to say that were not to be shared with outsiders, so she quickly sent Tongxi away. When they were alone, Aunt Xue suddenly felt something strange. Past events flooded back to her mind, and she couldn't help but glance at Chen Siyuan's waist...

Chen Siyuan lowered his voice, leaned forward, and said in a cryptic manner, "I have a friend who was chosen by the Xia family's wife last year and was considered as her son-in-law. His family was poor, and he was about to agree, only to at least meet the Xia family's daughter once... But it turned out that after meeting her, he refused to marry into the family."

"Huh? Why is that?"

The Guihua and Xia families were both imperial merchants, and their wealth was no less than that of the Xue family. They also had only one orphan daughter, and whoever married her would receive hundreds of thousands of taels of silver for free. How could they casually refuse such a good opportunity?
Chen Siyuan said, "That friend said the Xia family girl has a voluptuous appearance, but a fiery nature. She loves herself like a bodhisattva, but peeks at others and is as vile as dirt... I heard she often gets angry with the maids, scolding and beating them. As the saying goes, marrying an unvirtuous wife brings disaster to three generations. I shouldn't say this, but this marriage... Concubine, you should think carefully about it."

After a pause, he continued, "Money is good, but how can it compare to the Xue family's ancestral hall?"

(End of this chapter)