The Young Mistress’s Little Romance in the Duke’s Mansion 10

Chapter 10
If Lu Chenglian’s previous words had been a subtle hint, this latest statement was unmistakably clear.
No elder brother-in-law would speak to his widowed younger sister-in-law in such a manner. He had extended an olive branch to her.
Gu Xiyan was incredulous, yet at the same time, she had expected it. The impact of this revelation was too great, and for a moment, she did not know how to proceed.
Using words to suppress maids and servants, adopting a strategy of retreat to advance before her mother-in-law, or even speaking a few harsh words—these were not major issues if spoken of. But having an entanglement with her elder brother-in-law—
Gu Xiyan shuddered with cold fear.
She dared not think about it in detail. She could only avoid thinking about it altogether, escaping like an ostrich burying its head in the sand.
The next day was the Zhonghe Festival, the second day of the second lunar month, known as “Dragon Raises Its Head.” Gu Xiyan went to Shou’an Hall to pay respects to the Old Matriarch. Everyone was there, dressed in vibrant, flower-like attire. Even Princess Ruiqing had arrived.
As the Emperor’s full sister, Princess Ruiqing was naturally noble and dignified. However, within the Duke’s mansion, she observed all proper etiquette.
Because she was present in the Old Matriarch’s room, everyone was somewhat restrained. Even the Fourth Young Mistress, who usually loved to talk and laugh, spoke less, behaving with恭顺 (respectful caution) in all matters.
Gu Xiyan served cautiously at the lower end of the Old Matriarch’s seat, subtly observing Princess Ruiqing.
Princess Ruiqing had moth-like eyebrows that swept into her temples, a face like a silver basin, and a demeanor that was both dignified and luxurious. To Gu Xiyan, she was someone to be feared and kept at a respectful distance. Although they lived in the same mansion and were part of the same family, their statuses were worlds apart. In the past, Gu Xiyan had not dared to breathe loudly in her presence.
But now, looking at Princess Ruiqing, Gu Xiyan could not help but think of her eldest son, Lu Chenglian.
Lu Chenglian’s words echoed in her ears again, making her heart race and her palms sweat.
She felt that she had truly become presumptuous.
Just as she was thinking this, a maid rushed in from outside, panting heavily. She announced that the Empress Dowager had sent rewards for the Zhonghe Festival from the palace. Everyone hurriedly stood up to go out and receive the gifts. There were fragrant beads, green sachets filled with hundred grains and fruits, emeralds, cat’s eye gems, and gold ingots shaped like Ruyi scepters. Gu Xiyan naturally received a share as well.
Afterward, everyone celebrated the festival joyfully. They sprinkled incense ash in front of the doors, ate dumplings and spring pancakes, and planned to watch fireworks in the evening.
At this moment, Chunlan approached and said that Gu Xiyan’s sister-in-law had come. She had made some pastries and specifically brought them for Gu Xiyan. Gu Xiyan hesitated for a moment before reporting to the Old Matriarch.
The Old Matriarch slowly raised her eyes and glanced at her. “Go ahead. Since your relative has come, host her properly.”
Gu Xiyan felt that the Old Matriarch was displeased, perhaps aware of her unruly behavior in Shou’an Hall previously. But since the Old Matriarch did not bring it up explicitly, Gu Xiyan played dumb and quickly slipped away.
Returning to her own courtyard, she indeed found Meng Shuhui there, carrying a bamboo basket on her arm. Seeing Gu Xiyan return, Meng Shuhui smiled. “I brought you some delicious food. I wanted you to taste it, but I was afraid you couldn’t leave your duties and that the food might get cold.”
Gu Xiyan was very happy to see Meng Shuhui. “Sister-in-law, I was just about to tell you about Uncle’s case!”
The two sisters-in-law entered the room, and Gu Xiyan hurriedly recounted what she had learned from Lu Chenglian.
Listening, Meng Shuhui pondered for a moment. “We ordinary people do not understand the intricacies behind these matters. According to Third Master Lu, a large batch of goods has been detained, implicating many people.”
Gu Xiyan said, “From his tone, it seems so. I am thinking that once the case is approved, we will see what happens next. We must try to help Uncle recover that batch of goods.”
Feeling somewhat guilty, she did not want Meng Shuhui to know about her twisted intentions, so she added, “Since I asked about it in front of everyone at the Old Matriarch’s place, it was not appropriate to press further. I can only mention it again if I happen to meet him elsewhere.”
Meng Shuhui did not suspect anything. “There is no need to rush. After all, there is a distinction between inner and outer affairs, making it inconvenient. Moreover, since this case involves so many people, it is not just our family. Let us wait patiently. I believe that the law does not punish the masses, and the Imperial Court will not confiscate all the goods. What is owed will eventually be returned.”
Gu Xiyan said, “I will act according to the situation. After all, Third Master Lu is brothers with our Sixth Master. Considering their old bond, he might help.”
Meng Shuhui sighed lightly in her heart. She clearly did not want Gu Xiyan to struggle because of her brother’s affairs, so she said, “I will think of other methods.”
Speaking, she opened the bamboo basket. “Quick, taste this.”
Gu Xiyan saw something wrapped in a steamer cloth inside and asked, puzzled, “What is this?”
As soon as she asked, she faintly smelled a fragrance. “It’s Toona Sinensis with eggs!”
Meng Shuhui opened the lidded bowl while smiling. “As soon as the city gates opened, I went out to the western suburbs. There is a barren area there where one can pick wild vegetables. Today was lucky; I managed to pick some freshly sprouted Toona Sinensis. It is at its tenderest right now. I originally wanted to bring it to you early in the morning, but since you do not have your own stove, asking the main kitchen to cook it would have caused unnecessary trouble. So, I scrambled it with two eggs myself. You always loved this dish in the past. Eat it while it is hot.”
Gu Xiyan looked over. In the white porcelain lidded bowl, golden-yellow scrambled eggs glistening with oil wrapped around tender red Toona buds, making one’s mouth water at the sight.
This was what she used to love eating.
Her heart felt sour, but she still smiled. “I am not a child. Is it really worth it for just one bite? You should keep it for the children.”
Eggs were not easily obtained, and Toona Sinensis was rare even in the Duke’s mansion. Meng Shuhui had luckily picked only a small amount of tender buds.
Meng Shuhui said, “They are not used to this taste, and neither am I. In our family, only you liked it. Eat it while it is fresh; do not waste it.”
Gu Xiyan nodded. “Mm.”
However, she still asked a maid to bring a small bowl and shared some of the scrambled eggs with Meng Shuhui. The two sisters-in-law ate together.
Meng Shuhui took her chopsticks with a smile and sighed lightly. “You…”
Gu Xiyan lowered her head to eat. The Toona buds were extremely tender, carrying the fresh scent of the mountains and fields. The scrambled eggs were delicious, rich and smooth, leaving a lingering fragrance in her mouth.
She could not help but exclaim, “It is truly delicious! At this moment, even the Emperor might not be able to eat this.”
The Duke’s mansion had warm caves to grow winter vegetables, but those were mostly easy-to-grow leafy greens. Toona trees were too tall to be grown in such caves. Therefore, eating Toona Sinensis at this time truly depended on luck.
Meng Shuhui laughed. “Look at you, so delighted by just one bite of Toona!”
But in her heart, she was pleased. This younger sister-in-law had married into a high-ranking family and had an difficult life. She treated Meng Shuhui with wholehearted kindness. Naturally, Meng Shuhui hoped to treat her well in return, bringing her joy.
She then mentioned her plans for the future to Gu Xiyan. “Actually, when I went to the suburbs early this morning, it was not just for the Toona. I was thinking that one must plan for the long term. I have hands and feet, so I should do some work to support myself and the two children. I could not think of anything else immediately, so I went out to pick some fresh wild vegetables and sell them in the city.”
Gu Xiyan looked at her in surprise.
Meng Shuhui continued, “I did manage to pick some. Since it was my first time, I did not sell much, but I earned over thirty wen.”
Gu Xiyan fell silent.
In the past, when the family was well-off, Meng Shuhui was also a pampered young mistress. She had never suffered such hardships. Now, she had to rack her brains to earn some silver, working hard all morning for just over thirty wen.
Meng Shuhui continued, “Besides this, I also found a odd job doing needlework for a household. I can take the work home and do it while taking care of the children.”
Gu Xiyan said, “That is certainly good, but Sister-in-law, you will have to endure hardship.”
Meng Shuhui smiled. “Now that we have reached this step, we must think about what to do at this step. I thought I should not always rely on your subsidies. If I can earn a little, enough to cover daily expenses for a day, that would be good. But ultimately, if I need anything, I will still have to ask you. Having you as my support makes me feel secure.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan understood that Meng Shuhui was afraid of burdening her and thus wanted to earn some silver desperately to reduce her burden.
However, not wanting to make Gu Xiyan sad, she deliberately said that she still had to rely on her.
Gu Xiyan sighed and said, “Since Sister-in-law speaks this way, I naturally understand. Let us just do our best and seek only to have a clear conscience.”
Meng Shuhui smiled upon hearing this, her spirits lifted. She talked about the needlework she had taken on and discussed her future plans.
Her eyes shimmered with a soft, bright light. “I have mentioned to Third Master Ye that my handwriting is acceptable. If there is an opportunity, I would also like to find some work copying books. This kind of work is more decent than needlework, and the payment is more generous.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan quickly said, “My writing may not be as neat as yours, but my painting skills are passable. If there is any work involving drawing or embellishment, I will help you. With our combined skills in calligraphy and painting, we will surely earn silver!”
Meng Shuhui laughed. “You are the dignified Young Mistress of the Duke’s mansion. How could you take on such work? It would become a laughingstock if it spread… But if that day truly comes, and I need you to help me draw a few strokes temporarily, that might happen.”
Gu Xiyan agreed repeatedly.
Mentioning Ye Erxun, Gu Xiyan said, “This time, settling down has troubled him quite a bit.”
Meng Shuhui said, “Yes. When I went out that day, I happened to meet him. He was respectful and gentle in his speech. He even asked about my brother’s case, saying that he has some connections in the capital and would help inquire.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan sighed. “He is a kind and generous man.”
It was just a pity that she had no such fortune.
Meng Shuhui hesitated for a moment before saying, “Actually, Third Master Ye is truly a good person. Now that you are widowed, if your husband’s family were ordinary, you could fulfill your duty by mourning for three years and then move forward. But here—”
In a prestigious family like this, they would likely not let her go. They would expect her to stay, guarding the household for the rest of her life.
Gu Xiyan smiled. “Actually, it is fine. The Duke’s mansion is large and wealthy; there is no shortage of food for me. I live comfortably here. If I were to remarry, I would have to bear children and deal with many troubles. Now, I am too lazy to think about such things.”
Hearing this, Meng Shuhui laughed. The two sisters-in-law chatted for a long time. Because Meng Shuhui needed to return to take care of the children, she hastily got up and left.
Just after Gu Xiyan saw Meng Shuhui off, she saw Ying Tong approaching from a distance, followed by a young maid.
Ying Tong had considerable face in the mansion; everyone smiled politely when they saw her. Now, she was actually coming to Gu Xiyan’s side, which surprised Gu Xiyan greatly. She hurriedly welcomed Ying Tong into the room, ordered the maids to pour tea quickly, and brought out fruits from her room for her to eat.
After entering the room, Ying Tong smiled. “I came today because our room happened to receive this rose dew. It is said to be a rare item. I brought this bottle for the Sixth Young Mistress to taste. Please do not disdain it.”
Seeing this, Gu Xiyan was overwhelmed with favor. She knew this item was not easily obtained; every branch in the Duke’s mansion eyed it with envy.
She had not expected Ying Tong to give this to her.
She hurriedly smiled and said, “How can I accept this? This item is precious; I am too embarrassed to take it.”

Ying Tong pressed the bottle directly into her hands. “Sixth Young Mistress, saying such things makes you seem like an outsider.”
To refuse further would appear ungrateful, so Gu Xiyan had no choice but to accept it.
Ying Tong sat down and looked around the room. Her gaze finally landed on a painting hanging nearby, and she asked with a smile, “Whose masterful hand created this? It looks remarkably elegant and refined.”
Gu Xiyan replied, “It is merely something I doodled in my spare time. It is quite crude, and I fear it has made a fool of me in your eyes.”
Hearing this, Ying Tong was quite surprised. She stood up to examine it closely.
She had originally been a palace maid, trained by the nannies serving Princess Ruiqing. Her skills in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, needlework, and embroidery were all first-rate, which was why she had been selected to serve Lu Chenglian. Naturally, she had a discerning eye.
After a long moment, she sighed with admiration. “Who would have thought the Sixth Young Mistress possessed such talent! In the past, my eyes failed me; I had never heard of this. I truly have been ignorant.”
Gu Xiyan remained modest. “It is just casual drawing, hardly fit for refined company.”
As a widow, it was improper for her to show off her talents. Doing so would only invite accusations of seeking attention. Therefore, she kept everything suppressed, hiding her skills and playing the fool, presenting herself as nothing more than a block of wood.
Ying Tong said, “How can you say it is unfit for refined company? Look at this painting. The brushstrokes are sparse and clear, possessing a certain artistic charm.”
She looked at Gu Xiyan and smiled. “Speaking of which, I did not come here without purpose today. I actually have a request.”
Gu Xiyan quickly said, “Ying Tong, just say whatever it is. Do not treat me as an outsider here.”
Ying Tong then mentioned the bamboo pattern on the pouch. “There must be an original pattern for this bamboo design. I was hoping to borrow it for reference.”
Gu Xiyan heard this and said, “After using that bamboo pattern, I did not pay much attention to where I put it. It seems I cannot find it now?”
She asked the maids in the room, but they all replied that they had never seen it.
Ying Tong was somewhat surprised. It was lost?
Since Gu Xiyan already intended to curry favor with those in Lu Chenglian’s quarters, she smiled and said, “Ying Tong, if you like it, I can draw it again for you later.”
Ying Tong was even more surprised. “Did the Young Mistress draw that herself as well?”
Gu Xiyan nodded. “Yes.”
Ying Tong thought for a moment. “That would be wonderful. Then I shall trouble the Young Mistress… The style should be similar to the previous one, but adding some new variations would also be acceptable.”
Gu Xiyan understood her intention and said gently, “Rest assured. I will sketch out several patterns, and you can choose whichever you prefer at that time.”
Ying Tong seemed hesitant to speak further. “It is just that this matter… it is better not to let others know.”
Gu Xiyan understood perfectly. This pattern was likely intended for Lu Chenglian’s use. If Lu Chenglian found out, it would be inappropriate to use it.
So, she naturally agreed. She did not expect to gain any favor from Lu Chenglian by doing this. Gaining Ying Tong’s favor was enough for her.
After Ying Tong left, Gu Xiyan curiously picked up the bottle of rose dew to examine it. The glass bottle was translucent, containing a crimson, fragrant floral dew. She knew it was a superior item difficult to find outside.
Curious, she diluted a drop with clean water and tasted it. Immediately, she felt a sweet and rich fragrance, and a warm comfort spread through her entire body.
Feeling moved, she could not bear to enjoy it alone and decided to share some with Meng Shuhui.
However, while dividing it, she thought of Ye Erxun.
Ye Erxun had helped her sister-in-law greatly, and they owed him a favor. Since she had obtained this item, she might as well send some to him. It could help refresh his mind during his night studies.
After thinking it over, she decided to keep only thirty percent for herself. She divided the remaining seventy percent equally into two parts: one for Meng Shuhui, and the other carefully sealed for Meng Shuhui to present to Ye Erxun.