The Young Mistress’s Little Romance in the Duke’s Mansion 26

Chapter 26
In the past few days, Gu Xiyan had devoted herself entirely to painting. She even worked under the lamp at night. To avoid raising suspicion from outsiders who might notice the light, she hid behind a screen and drew with curtains draped around her for extra concealment.
After burning through so much candle wax, the painting was finally nearing completion.
She studied the artwork carefully. It was a landscape of gardens and mountains, yet it felt lacking in vitality. After much contemplation, she concluded that to bring the piece to life, she needed to add a human figure.
However, the patron had not requested such an addition. If she took the liberty of adding something and did it well, it would be fine; but if she did it poorly, she feared being criticized and rejected.
Holding her brush, she weighed her options for a long time before finally committing to paper.
With a few spontaneous strokes, the ink took shape. By the pavilion stood the silhouette of a man in long robes. The wind seemed to blow, causing his sleeves to flutter, exuding a sharp, imposing aura.
Gu Xiyan froze. Looking at that figure, she felt in a daze that it was Lu Chenglian.
In truth, it was merely a few sketchy lines; one could not discern any specific features or physique. Yet the spirit and essence were strikingly similar.
This made Gu Xiyan feel guilty and somewhat alarmed. Why, of all people, had she inadvertently painted him?
But she quickly calmed herself. Even in landscape paintings, some touch of life was necessary for embellishment. Since she had only painted a vague human shadow, interpretations would vary—what one person saw, another might not.
Lately, she had been seeing Lu Chenglian often. His appearance was truly outstanding, far surpassing the other young masters in the residence. Since he had been occupying her thoughts, it was inevitable that his essence would seep into her brushwork. It was no great matter.
Moreover, it was just two or three ink strokes. It was likely that she saw resemblance because she wanted to see it; outsiders would never be able to tell.
Satisfied, she rolled up the painting and handed it to Qiusang, instructing her to deliver it to Meng Shuhui.
Even after sending it off, she remained anxious. It was a commission worth ten taels of silver, and she feared the client might find her work unsatisfactory. If that happened, she would feel truly guilty, to the point of wishing she could return the two-tael deposit.
After three or four days of unease, news finally came back. The client praised the painting highly, expressing great satisfaction, and mentioned that they would consider hiring her again for similar work in the future.
Gu Xiyan was overwhelmed with excitement, nearly moved to tears by her joy.
Her father had been a refined scholar, exceptional in both calligraphy and painting. Since her elder brother preferred martial arts and paid little attention to literary pursuits, her father, disappointed, had placed all his expectations on her instead. He cultivated her talents diligently. Although her wrist strength was slightly weak, making her calligraphy lack some maturity, she had received much praise from her father for her skills in painting.
As a daughter confined to the inner quarters, no matter how much she enjoyed this art, it had only served as a pastime to relieve boredom. After marrying into the Duke’s residence, she had occasionally painted with Lu Chengyuan, but during those six months, they had only done so two or three times.
After Lu Chengyuan passed away, her heart turned to ash. Where would she find the interest to pick up a brush?
Now, picking up the brush again and actually earning money from it was an unexpected delight.
After deducting the shop’s two-tael commission, she received eight taels. Holding the heavy silver in her palm, she rubbed it repeatedly, reluctant to let go.
The monthly allowance of five taels was good, but the eight taels earned from her painting brought even greater joy. This was tangible proof of her ability to generate income without relying on others’ charity.
In her excitement, her mind began to wander. She imagined taking on more commissions, earning substantial money, and perhaps even gaining fame as an artist.
She even began to think that if she ever left the Duke’s residence, she might be able to support herself.
However, she quickly reined in these unrealistic thoughts. The Duke’s residence provided her not only with money but also with stability and social status in this world—things she could never afford to give up.
After all, society was harsh and difficult for women. Take her sister-in-law, for example. Although she had lost her husband, she had two children to rely on and could maintain her position by staying with them. If she were alone, with no hope or support, she would never be able to stand on her own feet. She would likely attract gossip and criticism.
After much deliberation, she sighed softly and carefully stored the eight taels of silver in her chest. This was her private savings for the future.
The weather grew warmer in those days, to the point that wearing winter clothes felt uncomfortably hot.
Chunlan and Qiusang busied themselves with opening chests and crates, sorting and storing the winter garments. They dug out spring clothing, shaking out each piece one by one. Taking advantage of the good sunlight, they hung the clothes on bamboo poles in the courtyard.
Chunlan reminded her, “Be careful. If the sun is too strong, these gauze, silk, and satin fabrics cannot withstand prolonged exposure.”
They feared the fabrics would become worn or fade.
Qiusang agreed readily and continued searching. She pulled out a skirt in pine-resin green woven with gold thread. The color was bright, and the embroidery was exquisite; it looked brand new.
She called out cheerfully, “Madam, look! This skirt is still very new. Did you only wear it once?”
Gu Xiyan was arranging her makeup by the window. She glanced back. “Mn. Put it away.”
After saying this, she paused, feeling a sudden sense of dullness.
This skirt had been made in her first year of marriage. She had worn it only once during a spring outing. Lu Chengyuan had said it looked beautiful.
It was indeed beautiful, but she would never wear it again in this lifetime.
Hearing this, Qiusang muttered regretfully and carefully folded the skirt before putting it away.
Once everything was organized, Gu Xiyan changed into spring attire. It was still plain and simple, but looking at herself in the bronze mirror, she appeared elegant and appropriate. She smiled at her reflection.
Because of this smile, her mood improved significantly. Even her steps were light and brisk as she went to pay respects to the Old Madam.
Walking through the garden, she could hear birds chirping. They were the crows and sparrows common in the capital. Their calls were rather monotonous, yet they hinted at the arrival of spring.
The silver charcoal stove in the Old Madam’s room had been extinguished and moved out. Only a small warming cage remained, used for warmth during cool nights.
Perhaps due to the warm weather, the Old Madam was in the mood for some liveliness. Since it was the Second Madam’s birthday, she decided to celebrate it.
According to usual customs, although the Second Madam was the managing wife of the household, she was still a junior. The elders typically did not hold special celebrations for juniors’ birthdays. However, since the Old Madam wanted to liven things up and relieve her spring lethargy, everyone began making preparations.
Since it was not a milestone birthday, there was no need for excessive formality. A few tables were set up inside and outside the Second Madam’s quarters for the family to enjoy wine and revel in the atmosphere.
The banquet was not overly elaborate. They selected seasonal delicacies, such as the newly available yellow croaker, fresh mugwort shoots, tender bamboo shoots, and malantou (Indian aster). Various snacks were also arranged, filling several large tables with an abundant display.
The female relatives sat in the inner chambers, separated by a layer of curtain. The men sat outside. Since they were all family members seeking enjoyment, there were fewer restrictions. They gathered together, chatting and laughing, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
As a junior daughter-in-law, Gu Xiyan naturally had to serve the elders from time to time. The Third Madam was suffering from a cough, so Gu Xiyan carefully attended to her tea. However, after the Third Madam took a bite of fish, her coughing worsened.
Gu Xiyan hurriedly offered tea and patted her back, but this only annoyed the Third Madam further. “With you serving me, I cough even harder. Are you trying to kill me?”
Gu Xiyan dared not say anything. The Second Madam smiled and said, “Sister, you shouldn’t have eaten the fish. Recently, the Sichuan pepper trees just sprouted, and the buds were picked to cook the fish. You have never been able to tolerate that flavor, so it naturally triggered your cough.”
The Third Madam fell silent, though her expression remained unpleasant.
Throughout this, Gu Xiyan maintained a neutral expression, keeping her eyes lowered submissively.
She was protecting her reputation and fulfilling her duties as a widow. Whether the Third Madam was angry or not did not concern her.
But at that moment, she felt a gaze. Someone was watching her.
Using the pretext of serving tea, she slightly turned her head. It was Lu Chenglian.
On the corridor outside the curtains, against the backdrop of red tiles and blue walls with a few banana vines, he happened to be looking in her direction.
When their eyes met, there seemed to be some obscure emotion in his depths, indescribable and unclear.
Gu Xiyan smiled inwardly and withdrew her gaze.
Just then, several younger cousins, still quite young, gathered around to chat. Their chatter instantly livened up the atmosphere, and everyone joined in the laughter.
At that moment, servants carried in two large baskets of fresh fruit, still attached to their branches and leaves.
Usually, they only saw fruits that had been picked, washed, and placed in fruit plates, or even cut into pieces. They had rarely seen them presented this way. Finding it novel, everyone gathered around to look, picking and choosing among the branches and leaves.
The Third Madam watched, seemingly interested in tasting some. Gu Xiyan also went over to select some.
She picked up a branch. The leaves were emerald green, and the fruits were a pale green. She did not know what they were called and was about to pick one.
Suddenly, she felt the sunlight in front of her blocked by something. She instinctively looked up and saw Lu Chenglian.
Lu Chenglian said, “These are sour.”
It was only three simple words, yet Gu Xiyan felt blood rush to her face.
This was the first time he had spoken to her directly in public, in front of so many people.
Lu Chenglian added, “These are plums.”
Gu Xiyan nodded quickly, lowered her head, and respectfully said, “Thank you, Third Master. It is my ignorance that I did not recognize them as plums. Since they are sour, I will leave them be.”
As she spoke, she tried to cover her embarrassment by reaching for another branch. Carelessly, she pricked her finger on a thorn. She cried out in pain, “Aiyo!” Looking down, she saw that it was bleeding.
Fortunately, there were many people around, and no one noticed. She quickly bit her lip, concealed her injured finger under her sleeve, hastily picked two fruits, and offered them to the Third Madam.
She did not dare to look at Lu Chenglian beside her again.
She had to admit she felt guilty. In front of so many people, she feared she could not hide her feelings, afraid that others might discover her thoughts. She could only flee desperately, avoiding him, refusing to look at him.
After carefully washing the fruits, she offered them to the Third Madam. The Third Madam complained a few times, took a bite, and then discarded them.
Having fulfilled her duty, Gu Xiyan stood by obediently, yet she remained attentive to Lu Chenglian’s movements.
Her heart now felt as if a piece of charcoal had been thrown into it, burning her insides with intense heat.

For a moment, resentment flickered in her heart. Why had he spoken to her with so many people around? Did he not care if others grew suspicious?
Just as she was thinking this, several of her younger sisters-in-law called out to her, inviting her to join their game of Shuanglu (a backgammon-like board game). She looked to the Third Madam for permission. The Third Madam kept a stern face and said nothing.
Gu Xiyan bowed respectfully and followed the young ladies.
The younger women had fewer reservations about propriety and moved into the outer side room, which happened to offer a clear view of where Lu Chenglian was seated.
Gu Xiyan felt increasingly uncomfortable but forced herself to endure it. While playing Shuanglu, her mind involuntarily drifted toward him.
Lu Chenglian was conversing with several cousins. Although they were all of similar age, their prospects varied greatly. Everyone knew that Lu Chenglian enjoyed the Emperor’s favor, so their conversation carried undertones of flattery.
Amidst the laughter and chatter, a young maid suddenly shouted bluntly, “Blood! There’s blood!”
Everyone looked over. It was a young maid who had just started wearing her hair up. She was thin but sturdy, with slightly dark skin and hair that appeared somewhat curly. She stood there with wide, bright eyes, making a fuss.
Confused, the group watched as a servant inspected the area. Sure enough, traces of blood remained on the branch. Surprised, everyone asked what had happened.
Seeing this, Gu Xiyan feared they might overthink the situation. She quickly explained, “I accidentally pricked myself on a thorn earlier. It is nothing serious.”
Hearing this, everyone realized what had occurred. They remembered her picking fruit for the Third Madam and assumed she had been injured then.
One of the younger sisters-in-law laughed and exclaimed, “In ancient times, Lao Laizi wore colorful clothes to entertain his parents, and Huang Xiang fanned his father’s pillow and warmed his quilt. Today, our Sixth Sister-in-Law got pricked while picking fruit for her elder. This is also a great act of filial piety!”
Others joined in the laughter, praising her. “It will surely become a beautiful story when spread abroad.”
As they spoke, maids brought golden wound medicine and white silk strips, carefully bandaging Gu Xiyan’s finger.
Actually, although the prick had hurt initially, Gu Xiyan had already forgotten about it. She had not expected it to be exposed publicly like this.
Nevertheless, this was good for her reputation. Now the entire household knew of her filial devotion to the Third Madam. In the future, if she encountered any difficulties, this past goodwill would serve as a support.
Thinking of this, she recalled the little maid. If that maid had not spoken up, she would not have gained this benefit.
Casually, she asked, “That little maid is quite dark-skinned, which is rare. Which quarter does she belong to? I haven’t seen her before.”
An older woman nearby smiled and replied, “Never mind you, Madam, even we haven’t seen anyone like her. She is a little maid the Third Master brought back from the west. I heard her father was very dark-skinned, so she has been like a piece of charcoal since birth.”
However, there was one thing the older woman did not dare say. She had heard that such dark-skinned servants were usually highly trained and exceptionally loyal. But this one seemed unrefined, shouting and making a scene without any sense of decorum!
Gu Xiyan chatted casually for a moment longer before turning to other matters.
But when she glanced at the dark-skinned maid again, a vague guess formed in her mind. This little maid must be Amole, whom Qiusang had mentioned.
Lu Chenglian knew she was injured. Since he could not point it out himself, he had the seemingly ill-mannered little maid shout it out for him.
Realizing this, she subtly looked toward Lu Chenglian and happened to meet his gaze.
Under the warm sunlight, there was a hint of knowing amusement in his expression.
Gu Xiyan’s face instantly burned, and her heart became chaotic.
She quickly averted her eyes, pretending nothing was wrong as she continued watching the younger ladies play cards, but her heart pounded violently.
Since Lu Chengyuan passed away, and her parents were gone, she had no one to rely on. No one would rack their brains to treat her well.
Her only support was her sister-in-law, Meng Shuhui, but Meng Shuhui was barely managing her own affairs.
Now, someone had noticed her suffering and acted on her behalf. Even if it was just a small gesture, it was enough to move her.
As she pondered this, she heard the younger sisters-in-law chattering excitedly. The kitchen had sent over freshly made bamboo cakes. This was a novelty—a whole bamboo steamer was brought out, containing large blocks of rice cake, along with cutting knives, brown sugar, and honey. Guests could cut pieces themselves and dip them in brown sugar.
Finding this amusing, everyone eagerly reached out to cut pieces. They shared them among themselves, ignoring distinctions between men and women or inner and outer quarters, laughing together in delight.
At one point, someone offered a piece to Lu Chenglian, but Ying Tong intercepted it.
Ying Tong smiled and said, “Miss, let me handle this. Our master never eats sweets. I will just cut a piece without any sugar for him to taste.”
Speaking thus, she cut a piece herself. A little maid assisted by handing over a small white porcelain dish. Together, they placed the rice cake on the plate and respectfully offered it to Lu Chenglian.
Lu Chenglian took a slight bite and set it down. Ying Tong had already been waiting nearby with a plain silk handkerchief. Seeing him finish, she respectfully presented it to him.
While chatting with the others, Gu Xiyan subtly observed Ying Tong. Ying Tong was truly beautiful, with a slender figure and lovely features. Although she was a maid, she was cared for better than many mistresses, appearing fresh and vibrant.
More importantly, Ying Tong was steady and meticulous, attending to every detail. She had been personally trained by Princess Ruiqing and selected to serve in her son’s quarters.
Gu Xiyan knew she could not compare to Ying Tong, yet she still asked herself: What did she have that Ying Tong did not?
Moreover, her status and his made it impossible for them to ever be together.
In an instant, it felt as though a Kongming lantern that had just risen into the sky was suddenly punctured. Hissing as it leaked air, it fell dejectedly to the ground.
She reined in her thoughts and looked at the children playing on the distant lawn. Yet in her heart, she acknowledged that Lu Chenglian was indeed captivating. With just a casual tease, he made her heart itch.
Besides, he had helped her. Even if it seemed he wanted to call in a favor or manipulate her, he had still helped.
How many people in this world sought to flatter and please but could find no way to do so?
In this regard, if she were not careful, she would easily fall into his trap.
Fortunately, certain things reminded her of reality, such as his impending marriage negotiations and the maid in his room who was as fresh as a spring onion.
If she truly became involved with him, who would she be competing against? She could not compete with those outside, nor could she contend with those inside. It would be an awkward and untenable position.
She found the thought utterly meaningless.
Finding an excuse, she began to walk back. However, shortly after leaving, she saw a figure standing far away beside the bamboo grove on the left.
She recognized him immediately and vaguely sensed he was waiting for her.
She stopped. Indeed, she wanted to speak with him.
After a brief hesitation, she instructed Qiusang to pass a message to the Fifth Young Mistress. Qiusang understood and agreed, hiding aside.
Gu Xiyan walked forward. After a few steps, footsteps sounded beside her.
She deliberately slowed her pace, feeling the person following closely behind her right side.
Her heart beat softly, as if she were secretly meeting a lover. This clandestine feeling made her feel entirely unsettled.
At that moment, a man’s voice sounded in her ear. “Does your hand still hurt?”
Gu Xiyan replied, “It is fine.”
Women often pricked their fingers while doing needlework in daily life; no one usually made a fuss over it.
Lu Chenglian said, “Good that it doesn’t hurt anymore. Actually, if you are pricked, you should say so. There is no need to endure it silently.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan thought that people of different statuses naturally had different perspectives, but she did not wish to argue with him.
Seeing her silence, Lu Chenglian’s gaze fell on her right hand. She had slender, soft, white hands. At this moment, one finger was wrapped in white gauze, the bandaging slightly clumsy.
Feeling pity, he said, “Be careful when you return. Do not let it get wet.”
Gu Xiyan answered with a soft “Mn,” adding, “I know.”
Her voice was soft, especially that “Mn,” which seemed to hum from her nose.
Lu Chenglian pursed his lips and smiled, asking in a low voice, “Your pouch today is quite unique.”
Gu Xiyan subconsciously touched the lotus-root-colored embroidered pouch tied at her waist. “It is just rough work I made casually.”
Lu Chenglian said, “Coincidentally, I have been lacking a satisfactory pouch recently.”
His implication was so obvious that Gu Xiyan’s ears burned. Turning her face away, she said, “Miss Ying Tong is skillful. Her needlework is exquisite.”
Lu Chenglian leaned in closer, looking down at her. “No matter how good the needlework is, it does not suit my taste.”
They were too close. His hot breath was scalding. Gu Xiyan’s mind went blank. Unable to respond properly, she instinctively followed his lead and asked, “What would suit your taste?”
As soon as she asked, she felt foolish. The man’s hint was so clear, yet she still asked!
She wanted to slap herself, wished there were a hole in the ground she could crawl into!
Lu Chenglian saw the blush spreading across her face and whispered, “Do you want to make one for me?”
Gu Xiyan turned her face further away, refusing to look at him. “Certainly not!”
Lu Chenglian’s voice carried a hint of amusement. “Then give me the one you are wearing now?”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan hurriedly protected her pouch, saying defensively, “I won’t give it to you. I am wearing it. If others see, the sky will fall!”
Seeing her panic, Lu Chenglian relented from teasing her. “Rest assured, I will not rob you.”
Gu Xiyan bit her lip and gave him a resentful glance. “Why do you always bully people!”
Lu Chenglian asked, “Did I bully you?”
Gu Xiyan’s face was red and hot. She completely ignored him.
He was clearly flirting with her.
Lu Chenglian looked at her pouting appearance. Her fair skin showed a thin layer of red, like peach blossoms falling on new snow, exceptionally appealing.
He even had an impulse to reach out and poke her cheek.
But he restrained himself and asked, “Why did you suddenly leave just now? Was something displeasing to you?”
Gu Xiyan was surprised by his question.
The spring air was light and soft. His voice was warm and husky, making people feel comforted.
It was merely some subtle emotions, but someone had noticed and specifically asked, offering her care.
Her chest felt sour and heavy. Barely holding it back, she whispered, “I felt it was meaningless, so I wanted to return and rest.”
Lu Chenglian’s dark eyes fixed on her. “I want to hear the truth.”