Chapter 34:

The sun had just set when Jicheng returned home, carrying a paper bag with something wrapped inside, his face beaming with joy as he walked back. The men and women returning from their busy day all looked at him curiously, wondering what good fortune he had encountered.

Chunfu had already finished her chores and was preparing dinner. It was rare for Zhang Yan to visit, so she wanted to steam an egg custard for him. Seeing how thin the boy, who would surely grow into a handsome young man, had become, her heart ached with sorrow.

Zhang Yan helped her by adding firewood to the stove. Looking up at the busy Chunfu, he smacked his lips and said, “Auntie, the porridge you made earlier was delicious, but it’s not just a waste of money—it also takes so much time. What if Uncle gets upset?”

The steamed buns on the stove were almost ready. Chunfu, too busy to notice his expression, smiled and replied, “Why would he be upset? You’re too young to worry about such things. Look at how you’re frowning.”

Zhang Yan stood up and stretched his sore legs. After a moment’s thought, he said, “Today, Auntie Xiuhua came crying to my mother again. Uncle Tiezhu beat her because she ate half a bowl more of chicken, saying she was greedy.”

Xiuhua was the kind of person who loved to gossip and meddle in trivial matters, always running around over petty issues. Chunfu had no patience for her nonsense and immediately said, “Why bother with her? As long as she doesn’t cause trouble for us, that’s enough. If you spend all your time listening to other people’s problems, how will you live your own life? You, my boy, stay away from them. A real man doesn’t get involved in such things. You’re destined for greatness, understand?”

Zhang Yan nodded solemnly, but his young face still showed no relief. Chunfu was busy until the buns were ready, and only then did she have time to look at him properly. Frowning, she asked, “You’re not yourself today. What’s wrong?”

Zhang Yan burst into tears, his voice full of grievance. Clutching Chunfu’s sleeve, he sobbed, “Zhang Tong is going to school. I want to go too. I know I could do better than him. But… but why can’t I?”

Chunfu’s heart ached at his words, and her eyes reddened. Zhang Yan was a child who endured much in silence, rarely voicing his grievances. Only when faced with something he truly longed for did he break down. She stroked his head and comforted him softly, “Don’t cry. When Auntie earns enough money, I’ll send you to school too. Study hard then, and let everyone see that our Zhang Yan can achieve even greater things.”

Zhang Yan wiped his tears with his sleeve, his voice hoarse and uncertain. “Really? But school costs so much. What if Uncle… Never mind. Maybe I shouldn’t go. When I grow up and get married, I’ll have just one child, and I’ll send him to school. I’ll make sure he succeeds.”

Chunfu was both moved and amused by his grown-up tone. Laughing through her tears, she scolded, “What do you know, little one? Don’t be afraid. As long as Auntie is here, you’ll have everything Zhang Tong has.” She and Jicheng had to build a good life—not just for themselves, but also for Zhang Yan, this child who tugged at her heartstrings. Seeing him grow up in such a harsh environment yet remain kind and sensible, she couldn’t bear to let him suffer. As his aunt, no matter how difficult, she would make sure he had his chance to shine.

Jicheng had just entered the house when he heard Zhang Yan crying. At first, he was stunned, but after understanding the situation, he shook his head with a smile. The aunt and nephew were equally stubborn. Setting down the basket outside, he gently nudged away the little dog clinging to his leg and headed straight for the kitchen. “What are you two up to? I’ve brought back something good—come and try it.”

Chunfu motioned for Zhang Yan to go first. The hot water she’d prepared earlier was just right now. After fetching his change of clothes from the room, she asked, “Why did you buy these things?” The paper package contained beef jerky, something she used to love. The household used to stock plenty of it, and seeing it now brought back memories.

Jicheng took off his outer garment and gestured for Chunfu and Zhang Yan to eat, smiling. “The master’s big dog escaped its cage, and I helped catch it. So they gave me this.”

Chunfu picked up a piece but hadn’t yet taken a bite when his words made her frown. “Caged dogs bite the fiercest. Were you hurt?” Noticing him subtly hiding his arm, she immediately understood. Walking over quickly, she saw a clear, bloody gash on his strong arm. Anger flared up instantly. “Why risk yourself over a beast? If it ran, let it run! If anything happened to you, don’t blame me if I really remarried!”

Jicheng winced as she gripped his arm tightly, not daring to make a sound despite the pain. Only after she finished cleaning the wound did he grimace and say, “They said it was some kind of mastiff brought from the northern mountains—strong enough to take on wolves, sleeps soundly even in freezing snow, and looks ferocious. It wasn’t just me trying to catch it; everyone pitched in. I just got unlucky. It’s nothing. I can still work tomorrow.”

Chunfu spotted what she needed in the basket and brought out the meal. “Keep spinning your tales. The day after tomorrow, I’ll ask Zhou Jing and see what he says. Don’t even think of coordinating stories with him, or he can forget about seeing his Miss Yu Ning.”

Jicheng pouted, put on his clothes, and sat dejectedly at the table. Well, this little woman had him firmly under her thumb. Just as the three began eating, a familiar voice called from outside the courtyard. Jicheng turned to see Qiaoyun, and his previously ingratiating smile froze. Reluctantly, he stood up. “Come in if you have something to say.”

Qiaoyun looked awkward, her eyes crinkling as she smiled. “Big brother, sister-in-law, you’re eating. I… Jiliang and I just moved out. It’s too late to go back to my parents’ place tonight, so I wondered if I could borrow a bowl of flour to cook. I’ll return it tomorrow after I come back from my parents’.”

Chunfu glanced at Jicheng, then stood up to take the bowl from Qiaoyun and went inside to scoop out some flour. Jicheng frowned. “Why did you move out all of a sudden?”

Tears welled up in Qiaoyun’s eyes as she spoke. “We split from the family. My father sent Jiliang out to work, but he had an episode and was carried back. He can’t do heavy labor anymore. I couldn’t swallow this injustice, so I demanded we split. One way or another, we’ll manage on our own.”

Jicheng handed her the bowl and said gravely, “It’s your life—do what’s best for you. A bowl of flour is nothing to Chunfu and me. Take it; no need to return it. It’s late—you should go back.”

He was merely fulfilling his duty as an elder brother. After all, even a stranger asking for help wouldn’t be turned away. Once she left, he resumed eating without another word. Chunfu didn’t pry either. Her world revolved around the two people before her; others’ well-being mattered little compared to theirs.

But Qiaoyun felt genuinely comforted. To her, her brother’s willingness to lend her food meant their relationship could mend. Seeing how they lived—simple meals of steamed buns and porridge, yet content—she believed that with time and sincerity, she could build a good relationship with her sister-in-law. With diligence, she too could have a good life.

Shang Jing rode ahead to report back, leaving the carriage driver to follow. The Pei family had recently purchased a large estate and were currently swamped with work. Servants passing by greeted him respectfully: “Steward Shang.”

Entering the main hall, he saw the young master conversing with the eldest master, who lounged lazily in his chair. Upon seeing him, the master smiled. “Did you find her? Is she settled?”

Shang Jing handed over the cloth bundle Chunfu had given him, guilt-ridden. “I failed in my task. Madam Chunfu refused to come, only sending these items and asking not to be disturbed in the future.”

The once-disheveled young man on the street now wore fine silks, his features bright and clear. Frowning at the news, he said, “What a pity. I wanted to thank her in person and offer some silver. No matter—once things here settle, I’ll deliver it myself.”

“These little cakes are quite tasty. Even someone like me, who dislikes sweets, can stomach them.” The voice was languid yet magnetic, paired with a strikingly handsome face that carried a hint of roguish charm. The Pei family’s eldest master was infamous for his libertine ways, never serious, yet he held half the family’s power. Aside from the patriarch, he was the one who called the shots, while the refined second master was relegated to menial tasks.

“Brother, it’s getting late. Let’s discuss this tomorrow.”

Pei Qian stood, brushing crumbs from his clothes, then grabbed two more cakes. “You’re the only one in our family who could get lost, Pei Si. You really ought to thank her properly. I’ll take these back for my Runiang to try. If you can’t finish yours, send them to my room.”

Pei Si shook his head helplessly as his brother sauntered away. Turning to Shang Jing, he said, “Prepare some food and clothing. Our family has no shortage of such things.”

As Shang Jing prepared to leave, the young master added, “There’s a flower-viewing event in town these days. Accompany the eldest master, and remind the servants to take good care of his Runiang. I don’t want him causing a scene over that dog again.”

Shang Jing couldn’t help but smile as he nodded and withdrew. Runiang was the ugly, ferocious dog the eldest master always kept by his side. Despite countless scoldings from his parents, he remained stubborn, even taking her to poetry gatherings and places frequented by young ladies. His efforts were transparent—all to avoid marriage.

Jicheng escorted Zhang Yan home. When he returned, Chunfu was waiting for him on the kang. Helping him remove his outer garment, she asked cautiously, “Did you hear what Zhang Yan and I talked about earlier? Jicheng, I really want to send him to school. Don’t worry—I’ll find a way to earn the money.”

Jicheng tapped her forehead lightly—though not too lightly, as she winced and hissed in pain. “What’s this about borrowing? What’s mine is yours. Use it openly. Have I ever treated you poorly? Don’t speak like a stranger.”

He undressed and lay down, pulling Chunfu into his arms. His fingers traced her smooth skin, igniting a fire within him. Holding her tighter, his voice unsteady, he murmured, “You’ve filled out a bit these past days. You must be recovering. Maybe we can… I…”

Chunfu’s mind was still on sending Zhang Yan to school and didn’t catch his words. By the time she realized, his hand had already slipped beneath her undergarments. Deeply modest, she flushed crimson and pushed him away. “Have you lost your mind? No, stop it… I said stop! I’m not feeling well these days. If you don’t behave, I’ll hit you.”

Jicheng rolled over, his eyes blazing as he stared at her. His breath came heavy and labored as he nipped her earlobe in retaliation, grumbling, “You’ve got some nerve. Married, yet so fussy about husband-and-wife matters. You little minx, you know I can’t bring myself to bully you, don’t you?” He chuckled, the tension dissipating.

Chunfu, breathless from his teasing, laughed too. “Then bully me. I’ll just lie here.” She closed her eyes, feigning submission, but when he didn’t move, she giggled and pulled him down beside her, resting her head on his chest. “I didn’t want to ask, but I can’t help it. If Jiliang and Qiaoyun try to reconnect with us… I think Qiaoyun has that intention.”

Jicheng suppressed his frustration and shook his head. “I’ve no feelings for Qiaoyun. She’s just someone who married into the Ji family. If she asks to borrow something, I can’t refuse. As for Jiliang—ignore him even if he comes. He’s a dog that can’t change its habit. He’s making a fuss now, but if Second Uncle shows the slightest leniency, he’ll crawl back.”

Chunfu frowned. “Really? From what Qiaoyun said, it sounded serious.”

Jicheng didn’t elaborate, holding her closer, his words slurring slightly. “Just wait and see. Was what I brought back enough? If not, I can take leave and come back.”

Touched by his concern despite his exhaustion, Chunfu shook her head. “It’s enough. Be careful with your injury tomorrow. Honestly, I’m nervous. The money in your little jar is almost gone. I think this will work, but what if something goes wrong…?”

Jicheng laughed, his chest rumbling, the deep sound warming her heart. “If I’m not afraid, why should you be? Sleep well. I’ll weather any storm for you.”

Chunfu’s heart swelled with sweetness as she drifted off. The next morning, she rose early to prepare Jicheng’s meal before returning to bed. She slept so soundly she didn’t even hear him leave. After tidying up, she heard Liansheng’s wife calling her to cut pigweed. Grabbing her sickle and basket, she hurried out. She needed to gather extra today—tomorrow was the big day. With both of them away, the pigs couldn’t go hungry. Losing weight would be disastrous.

The items Jicheng had bought came in handy at noon—fruits, sugar, fine flour, and the honey he’d risked bee stings to collect (only to end up bitten by a dog). Small quantities were manageable, but buying in bulk was painful.

The midday heat, though not as intense as summer’s, was still oppressive, especially near the blazing stove. Sweat poured down in no time, making it pure misery. Between tending the fire and preparing the fruits, she was swamped. Fortunately, Zhang Yan arrived soon after, proving a great help. Chatting as they worked made the time pass faster.

“Mother bought paper, brushes, books, and even a nice new outfit for Zhang Tong. Auntie, I feel a bit of hate. Does that make me bad?”

Just as the raspberry jam finished, Chunfu scooped a spoonful, blew on it, and offered it to him. “Try it—isn’t it sweet? Don’t be so hard on yourself. A little sweetness makes life easier, and people will see you as bright and spirited. Frowning all the time just makes a handsome boy like you look ugly.”

Zhang Yan couldn’t help but laugh. “Auntie, you’re impossible.”

After preparing various jams, Chunfu busied herself with thin pancakes and pastries. She wanted to make raspberry porridge and fruit congee too. The cool night air would keep them fresh, whereas preparing them at dawn would leave her exhausted, and the hot porridge would be troublesome to transport.

She worked nonstop until Jicheng returned, still not finished, too focused to even speak to him, meticulously recalling each step to avoid mistakes.

Jicheng wanted to urge her to rest, but before he could touch her, Zhang Yan pulled him aside and whispered, “Uncle, don’t ask for a scolding. Auntie doesn’t want to be disturbed when she’s thinking.”

Jicheng grinned and joined Zhang Yan in tending the fire. When done, he washed up in the courtyard with cold water. His stomach growled loudly, but he sat there watching Chunfu’s back, smiling. She seemed like a child, yet her body held so many surprises. He didn’t understand why—their humble life should be about scrimping and saving—but he was happy to indulge her, to see her smile.

Chunfu pushed herself to the limit. Her small frame couldn’t yet handle such prolonged labor. By the time the raspberry porridge was ready, her back was screaming. She served bowls to Jicheng and Zhang Yan, who devoured them hungrily, praising the taste. Chunfu’s radiant smile held all her effort. Success or failure hinged on tomorrow.

Only then did she remember Zhang Yan had been here all day. Would he be scolded at home? To her surprise, he shook his head, smiling. “They’re too busy with Zhang Tong starting school to care. I’ll visit the day after, Auntie. You have to tell me if the young ladies liked your treats.”

Chunfu nodded, exhaling deeply, silently vowing not to overthink tonight. By the time they finished the pancakes and porridge, it was pitch dark. Zhang Yan refused Jicheng’s escort, declaring himself a man who wouldn’t fear the dark—not when he was destined for greatness.

Chunfu and Jicheng exchanged amused glances but agreed. Still, Jicheng followed discreetly, ensuring Zhang Yan reached home safely. Back at their house, they arranged the porridge as Chunfu instructed before retiring. Beside him, Chunfu was already fast asleep, utterly spent.