ã€ŠLuoyang Brocadeã€‹


 Chapter 1

    The pliable white cloth tightened deep into her neck

    The blood of her whole body rushed to her head, and the pain of suffocation overwhelmed her.

    Breathing was getting thinner and thinner, and the neck was getting more and more painful.

    No, she doesn¡¯t want to die

    She hasn¡¯t been able to see her son grow up, and she hasn¡¯t had time to avenge her humiliated self. She hasn¡¯t waited for her husband to return and ask him why he had failed her.

    She was unwilling to die like this.

    The pain accumulated to the peak. Before falling into complete darkness,Ling Jingshu used her last strength to open her eyes, and deeply embedded the terrifying faces in front of her mind.

    ¡°A Shu, what¡¯s wrong with you, wake up quickly.¡± A distant and familiar voice kept ringing in her ear, and one hand clung to her arm and kept shaking.

    As if it can wake her up from a long nightmare.

    After the name ¡°A Shu¡± was repeated for a long time, the voice finally choked. Cool tears fell from the corners of his eyes and dripped onto her hands.

    Her fingers moved and her eyelashes trembled slightly.

    ¡°Young master, Miss eyes are moving.¡± Another long-lost familiar voice rang in the ear.

    Its too noisy to get to Huangquan, and you cant be clean. (1)

    She rubbed her brow and slowly opened her eyes.

    A teenager¡¯s face came into view.

    The juvenile was about thirteen or fourteen years old, with white skin like jade, red lips and white teeth, and the eyebrows are exquisite and beautiful. It is a pity that a pair of eyes seem to be covered in mist, and it was dark and unclear.

    ¡°A Xio,¡± Ling Jing shouted out the long-lost name, her voice trembling slightly, and her eyes were wet: ¡°Is it really you?¡±

    This was her twin brother Ling Xiao who was born half an hour later than her.

    At the age of eight, Ling Xiao fell heavily. After he was rescued, his eyes were blind. She had asked many famous doctors to treat him. Her brother was originally talented and intelligent, known as the child prodigy, but was ruined by this accident. Can no longer read, write, paint or do calligraphy, and can only stay in Ling Mansion, a bird that is raised in a cage.

    More than Ling Xiao, she was just another caged swallow that was carefully raised.

    After she got married, the Ling family quickly set a marriage for Ling Xiao. A few days before the marriage, he fell ill and died early. She was too naive, she thought that Ling Xiao died of sickness. It was not until a long time later that she realized that Ling Xiaos death was not an accident at all, but was poisoned by people.

    But all this was too late. At that time, she was so deep in her own troubles, let alone avenging Lin Xiao.

    Ling Jingshu, who was overexcited, did not notice that her voice was much more tender.

    ¡°A Shu,¡± Ling Xiao was surprised and reached out and caught Ling Jing¡¯s hand: ¡°That¡¯s great, you are finally awake. You had a high fever for two days, and you were talking nonsense and scared me.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, miss, you are awake.¡± A maid in a blue dress with a pair of buns was full of excitement.

    The maid was about seventeen or eighteen years old, with a goose egg face, a pair of big and bright eyes, a straight nose, and diamond-shaped red lips; it was a beautiful face.

    ¡°Bai Yu,¡± Ling Jing blinked through the water, her voice choked: ¡°So you are here too¡­..¡±

    Bai Yu was four years older than her and since she was six years old, Bai Yu was by her side to serve. The master and servant had been with each other for many years and had deep feelings.

    Bai Yu had a calm temperament and a beautiful appearance. She was the most outstanding among all maids in the whole Ling household. Her stepmother Li¡¯s nephew Li Erlang took a fancy to her and had the audacity to ask her to be his concubine. Li promised many things with her soft words, and she nodded her head.

    Her momentarily soft heart hurt Bai Yu for a lifetime. After Bai Yu married Li¡¯s family as a concubine in less than three years, she was tortured to death by the main room. The two of them, master and servant were separated forever.

    For so many years, she was betrayed by the people around her. When she was full of pain, she often remembered the loyal Bai Yu, and her heart was always filled with remorse and self-blame.

    Taken away just at an age of twenty-four, how unfair she was to her. After she died, God opened her eyes and allowed her to reunite with Ling Xiao and Bai Yu.

    Unconsciously, Ling Jing already had a tearful face.

    She grabbed Ling Xiao with one hand and the other hand groped the hand of Bai Yu: ¡°A Xiao, Bai Yu, after so many years of separation, I had always missed you in my heart. Now that I am also dead, and the three of us are reunited in the underworld. We won¡¯t be alone in the future.¡±

    Ling Xiao was startled when he heard this but did not respond for a while.

    Bai Yu smiled helplessly and said sympathetically: ¡°Miss has been having a high fever for the past two days. She is probably confused by the fever, and she is full of nonsense. What life and death, it is not auspicious to say this.¡±

    It was the same voice as in her memory. Soft and sweet.

    Ling Xiao also came back to his senses, and clenched Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand distressedly: ¡°A shu, you must be having a nightmare! Don¡¯t be afraid, Bai Yu and I are both fine, and you will be fine too.

    Ling Jingyi finally noticed something was wrong.

    Ling Xiaos hand was warm and Bai Yu¡¯s soft. The pity concerns expressed on the faces of the two were so clear.

    Also, she was sitting on a delicately carved wooden bed at this time, through the pink gauze, she could see the smooth bronzing mirror, see the delicate vase, and see the screen embroidered with peony.

    This was not Huangquan Hell, clearly, it was her boudoir when she was a girl

    Ling Jings mind was in a mess, subconsciously retracting her hand and touching her neck.

    She refused to kill herself, and she was choked by the three-foot-long white cloth. But now, there were no deep visible bruises on her neck, but it was warm and smooth.

    What exactly was going on?

    Ling Jings heart suddenly came up with an amazing guess.

    ¡°Bai Yu, go get the mirror.¡± Ling Jingshu¡¯s breathing was unsteady, her voice was short, and her cheeks were flushed.

    Bai Yu hurriedly responded and bought the bronze mirror and hold it on her chest.

    A sleek bronze mirror reflected a young girl¡¯s face that was still a bit green.

    The eyebrows were like mountains in the distance, but they were not painted. Lips were like cinnabar, red when not touched. The skin was delicate and smooth as jade. The most beautiful was the pair of clear water-like eyes. When she smiled slightly, it seemed like the spring breeze swept across the lake, swaying the charming young girl¡¯s demeanour.

    The fourteen-year-old girl was like the most precious Luoyang brocade in the Ling family¡¯s Peony Garden. She was beautiful and unparalleled. Her beauty was clean and pure, and the beauty was breathtaking.

    The fact that she had resurrected after her death was a shocking thing.

    However, this absurd and untrustworthy thing happened.

    Ling Jingshu looked at her familiar and unfamiliar self, but what flashed in her mind was the pale, emaciated face ten years later. Her eyes were blank and dull, and her heart was desolate and numb. It¡¯s better to live in the dark than to live¡­

    Thinking of the past, Ling Jing¡¯s heart seemed to be poked by a thin needle, and the sharp pain spread quickly.

    Her alluring beauty bought her unbearable humiliation. She would rather be born in the homes of ordinary people, look more mediocre, and spend a lifetime in peace.

    Ling Jingshu stared at the bronze mirror and had not spoken for a long time.

    Bai Yu thought that Ling Jingshu was not happy with how she looked and smiled and said: ¡°Miss is lying on the bed for two days, and it is inevitable that your look will take a toll. When you get well and change into bright clothes, you will be more beautiful than before.¡±

    The Ling family¡¯s Feng Shui was good, specializing in beauty. From the main room to the fifth room, this generation had a total of eleven girls. A few have died, and only six have grown up.

    Ling Jing was ranked ninth, and she was also the most outstanding among her cousins. Since the age of ten, she has been famous in Dingzhou for her beauty, and she cherished her appearance.

    Ling Jingshu closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She opened her eyes again and her eyes were clear and calm: ¡°Bai Yu, I am hungry. I want to eat chicken noodle soup that you make yourself.¡±

    Bai Yu was very happy and immediately smiled: ¡°Well, slaves will cook.¡±

    Bai Yu¡¯s cooking skills were excellent, and her movements were neat. In less than a stick of incense, she came with a bowl of hot chicken noodle soup.

    The noodles were strong, the chicken soup was fragrant, and the green leaves are dotted, which makes the index finger move.

    Ling Jing smelled the familiar aroma, her nose was slightly sour, picked up the chopsticks, gently stirred up some into her mouth, and slowly ate.

    The Ling family¡¯s daughters¡¯ education was very meticulous. Not only was a female master hired to teach them chess and calligraphy, but Madam Liu, who had retired from the palace was hired to teach them the rules and etiquette.

    Madam Liu had a strict temperament. The young ladies of the Ling family suffered a lot. Ling Jingshu was no exception. However, several years of teaching had paid off.

    Even if hungry, Ling Jing ate gracefully while eating fast and looked beautiful.

    Ling Xiaos eyes could not see, but his hearing was exceptionally sensitive, and he couldnt help but listen to the slight movements: A Shu, you havent eaten anything for two days, and your stomach must be very hungry. Dont worry about the rules, just eat well. ¡°¡±

    Bai Yu also echoed: ¡°The young master is right; there is no other person here, and the lady does not have to worry about it.¡±

    Ling Jings heart was warm and her lips raised slightly: Well, I listen to you.

    After a bowl of hot chicken soup was served, the cold hands and feet warmed up, and the whole body also had strength.

    ¡°The old lady also sent people to ask how the young lady is doing. The young lady is awake, so she should go to the old lady to let her know.¡± Bai Yu said with a smile: ¡°The slaves will wait for the lady to change and dress up.¡±

    Ling Jing snorted, hung down her eyes and covered her coldness.

    Men and women are different. Although Ling Xiaos eyes could not see, he still had to avoid suspicion. Take the initiative to get up: ¡°A Shu, I am going out and waiting for you.¡±

    Bai Yu took a bunch of new clothes. Pink, goose yellow, light purple, and green, all were bright colours suitable for young girls: ¡°These are new clothes just made a few days ago, which one does Miss want to wear?¡±

    Ling Jing lightly said: ¡°No need for the new dresses, just bring the old lake blue one.¡±

    The young lady was the most beautiful, her temper was soft and pleasing and was very popular with old Mrs Ling. Mrs Ling liked the bright beauty of her granddaughters. Miss is good at it, and she is especially careful in choosing how she dressed.

    But now, the young lady was going to see Mrs Ling in her old home clothes¡­ it was puzzling behaviour.

    The half-new lake blue dress was a little homely, but Ling Jingshu still looked really good wearing it. Bai Yu combed a double flat bun for Ling Jingshu again, with a beaded flower on each bun.

    Ling Jingshu stopped Bai Yu from selecting the bracelet and collar: ¡°No, that¡¯s all.¡±

    Bai Yu felt a little strange but did not ask anything.

    Ling Jingshu stared at Bai Yu, and suddenly came up with a sentence: ¡°Bai Yu, I will never let anyone bully you in future.¡±

    Bai Yus heart felt warm, and the tears in her eyes were just around the corner.

    How lucky she was to meet such a gentle and loving lady.

    Ling Jingshu looked at the moved face in front of her eyes, but she thought of Bai Yu that had been murdered in the past, and her heart felt sad. But she immediately started to cheer: ¡°Bai Yu, let¡¯s go.¡±

    Ling Xiao stood waiting outside the door, Ling Jing took the hand of Ling Xiao, and said softly: ¡°A Xiao, let¡¯s go together to greet our grandmother.¡±

    Ling Xiao nodded, his smile was pure and innocent.

    Ling Jing tightened her lips and straightened her waist. She took Ling Xiao and walked to the hall. Just like going to the battlefield, fearlessly facing the coming wind and rain.

    Bai Yu silently and faithfully accompanied her.

    After experiencing death, she knew more about the value of life and about cherishing the people around her.

    The people who have failed her, the humiliation they have suffered, she wants to get justice one by one.

    Even if the other party¡¯s identity was noble and out of reach, even if she had to pay everything for revenge, she will not hesitate in her revenge.

    T/N I am starting a new novel also from the same author. This is a great story.

    1. The underworld in Chinese mythology.

 Chapter 2

    Ling family was a famous family in Dingzhou, and the genealogy can be traced back to ten generations. The ancestors of the Ling family once served as high-ranking officials of the second rank and invested in thousands of fertile fields and thousands of family wealth.

    It¡¯s a pity that the children and grandchildren were not as good as the previous generation, and the family business was only half of the ancestors.

    Grandpa Ling died early, leaving behind four sons and one daughter. First Master Ling and Fifth Master Ling were the direct descendants, and the second master Ling and the fourth master are all shu sons. (1)

    Eldest Master Ling passed the Jinshi examination and was now working in the Ministry of Industry.

    Second Master Ling didn¡¯t make many achievements in his studies, so he donated money to get a seventh-rank magistrate post and went to work abroad.

    Third Master Ling died at an early age. Fourth Master Ling broke his leg when he was riding a horse when he was a teenager. Later, the leg bones were connected, but he suffered from the inconvenience of walking. He simply stopped reading and helped take care of the Ling family¡¯s shop, Grange.

    Fifth Master Ling was quite talented, but unfortunately, the luck was bad. After winning the Juren, he had not been able to make further progress for so many years. He became a romantic celebrity, drinking with friends, attending poetry meets, enjoying flowers and painting all day long, and he was quite famous in Dingzhou city.

    Mrs Ling has been a widow, guarding the ancestral business of the Ling family, raising four sons and a daughter. Although her treatment of two shu sons was not as good as the first son, it can be regarded as lenient.

    In the Ling family, Mrs Ling had a very high status. Needless to say, the sons were filial, several daughters-in-law were respectful in front of Mrs Ling, and all the grandchildren were vying with each other to please her. Old Mrs Ling valued Sun Lingji, the head of the eldest room, but she liked the twin siblings of the fifth room the most.

    Ling Jingshu was beautiful, talented, considerate, gentle and docile.

    Ling Xiao was intelligent since childhood and was known as a child prodigy. After accidental blindness at the age of eight, it is even more pitiful and has been raised by the old lady Ling.

    It is only natural that Mrs Ling preferred these two siblings.

    The ancestral residence of the Ling family had been inherited for more than a hundred years, and the carved beams and painted buildings revealed the mottled and vicissitudes of the years. Ling Jingshu stood outside the Yonghe Hall, looking at the familiar plants and trees, and there was no nostalgia in her heart, only sadness and desolation.

    In the first three years after she got married in her previous life, she had a close relationship with her family. At that time, except for the regret of her twin brother¡¯s early death, she only felt that everything was going well and she was happy.

    However, the so-called happiness was only an illusion.

    When the ruthless wind and rain hit, the people around her tore off the masks of hypocrisy one by one, revealing their hideous faces. Together, they pushed her into the abyss of eternal doom¡­

    A clear voice interrupted Ling Jingshu¡¯s chaotic thoughts: ¡°Slave greets Miss Jiu.¡±

    Ling Jingshu raised her eyes.

    This was Mo Kui, the maid next to Mrs Ling.

    Mo Kui was sixteen years old this year, fair-skinned and charming, with a slender figure, and her eyes curled when she smiled, which was quite important to Mrs Ling: ¡°The old lady has been thinking about Ninth Miss for the past two days, and I just heard that Ninth Miss is in good health. Come to say hello, the old lady will be very happy. Please go in with the servant girl.¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t say a word, just nodded, took Ling Xiao¡¯s hand, and stepped into Yonghetang.

    Mo Kui was stunned for a moment, only to feel that today¡¯s Ninth Miss seems to be a little different from the past.

    Where is the difference, she couldn¡¯t tell for a while.

    Mo Kui calmed down, put this passing thought behind her head, and quickly chased after them.

    ¡­¡­

    As soon as she walked into the inner hall, she heard a charming and cute girl¡¯s voice: ¡°¡­Grandmother, there is still half a month before your seventieth birthday. Your granddaughter made it for you by herself. A forehead, if the needlework is not done well, grandmother don¡¯t dislike it.¡±

    Old lady Ling¡¯s laughter came: ¡°Sister Xian did it by herself, there is no reason for not liking it.¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s footsteps paused slightly.

    There was still half a month before my grandmother¡¯s 70th birthday¡­ All the tragedies in her previous life started on this birthday. God let her be reborn at this time, just to let her open her eyes and choose again!

    This time, she will never make the same mistake again!

    Ling Xiao didn¡¯t know why Ling Jingshu stopped, and asked in a low voice, ¡°Ashu, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡±

    Ling Jingshu quickly came back to her senses, knowing that Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see it, she still squeezed out a nonchalant smile: ¡± It¡¯s nothing, let¡¯s go in and greet grandma.¡±

    The first person to catch her eye was the old lady Ling who was sitting at the top.

    Old Mrs Ling was seventy years old, her hair was already grey, and the corners of her eyes were full of wrinkles, but her eyes were not clouded by her old age, and occasionally flashed a shrewd light.

    Sitting on the left of Mrs Ling was the second aunt, Mrs Yue.

    The girl in pink beside Yue Shi was about fifteen years old, with a pink face and peach cheeks, and her eyes were bright. It was the eighth cousin Ling Jingxian who had acted coquettishly to Mrs Ling just now.

    On the other side of Mrs Ling, was the fourth aunt, Mrs Wang. Beside Wang Shi, also stood a young girl who was in her teenage years. She was born beautiful and quiet. It was her sixth cousin, Ling Jingwan.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s gaze swept across the crowd quickly and landed on the face of the woman in the silver-red satin jacket.

    She was about twenty-seven or eight years old, with slightly smaller eyes, a slightly wider mouth, and a small red mole on the corner of her lips. The facial features were not particularly beautiful when viewed separately, but together they have a different kind of charming style.

    This woman was Ling Jingshu¡¯s stepmother, Mrs Li.

    The moment that familiar face came into view, Ling Jingshu could hardly restrain her surging hatred, and subconsciously clenched Ling Xiao¡¯s hand tightly.

    Ling Xiao was caught off guard, took a deep breath, and exclaimed in pain¡­

    After waking up today, A Shu seemed a little weird.

    I¡¯d better keep quiet, lest my grandmother¡¯s heart is unhappy.

    ¡­

    Ling Jingshu quickly came to her senses, took a deep breath in her heart, then walked forward with a smile, and saluted Mrs Ling: ¡°Shu¡¯er, greets grandma.¡±

    After two days of high fever, the fever just subsided, and the voice was lower and hoarse than before, but still pleasant to the ear.

    Old Mrs Ling looked at Ling Jingshu, smiled and waved at her: ¡°Sister Shu, come to grandma¡¯s place quickly, and let grandma take a good look at you.¡±

    The smile was as loving and gentle as usual.

    As if she was still the grandmother who had always loved her.

    But Ling Jingshu clearly remembered how cold and ruthless her face was when she was humiliated and desperate at her husband¡¯s house and fled back to her parent¡¯s house for help. ¡­

    In Mrs Ling¡¯s heart, the reputation of the Ling family¡¯s family business will always be at the top of the list. Just a married granddaughter, how could she take her humiliation to heart.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s fingertips were cold, but there was a respectful and submissive smile on her face, and she took Ling Xiao to walk in front of Mrs Ling.

    Old Mrs Ling took Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand, and her brows immediately wrinkled: ¡°Why are your hands so cold, are

    Are you wearing fewer clothes?¡±

    Ling Jingshu lowered her eyes and replied softly, ¡°It¡¯s Shu¡¯er¡¯s fault, and grandmother is worried.¡±

    ¡°Yes, cousin Shu has been ill for the past two days, and grandmother is anxious.¡± Ling Jingxian interjected with a smile, looking at the face of Ling Jingshu, who was slightly pale and thin but no less beautiful, she had a glint of jealousy in her eyes.

    The fourteen-year-old Ling Jingshu not only had a beautiful face but also had superb skills in cultivating and planting famous peonies, which made all the cousins look dim.

    Old lady Ling¡¯s preference for Ling Jingshu was well known.

    She put a lot of thought into coaxing her grandmother into a happy mood. But as soon as Ling Jingshu came, the grandmother¡¯s eyes immediately only had Ling Jingshu.

    Ling Jingshu smiled at Ling Jingxian: ¡°You have cousin Chenghuan¡¯s knees, how can my grandmother think of me.¡±

    Ling Jingxian is only one year older than her. She was always competitive, competing with her everywhere, and even fell in love with the same man. It¡¯s a pity that Ling Jingxian had a high-spirited heart and had never won a fight.

    Old Mrs Ling was relieved to hear the two granddaughters arguing with each other and said with a loud laugh, ¡°Okay, both of you are my grandmother¡¯s heart, and I can¡¯t do without one of you.¡±

    The daughters-in-law and granddaughters all laughed.

    The children and grandchildren of the Ling family study at home during the day and even the youngest Ling Luo had been enlightened to read. On weekdays, there were only female relatives in the house, and the only male was Ling Xiao.

    After Mrs Ling asked Ling Jingshu a few words with concern, she looked at Ling Xiao again, and said lovingly, ¡°Your sister Shu has been sick for the past two days, and you have been taking care of her without thinking about your tea and rice. Now that she is well, you should rest assured. Come on!¡±

    Ling Xiao smiled shyly: ¡°Yes, this grandson made the grandmother worry.¡±

    Old lady Ling smiled and said, ¡°Grandmother is born to work hard, so worrying more is nothing. As long as you are all good your grandmother feels at ease.¡±

    All this love and pity were beyond words.

    A trace of jealousy flashed in Li Shi¡¯s eyes, but a smile appeared on her face: ¡°Mother-in-law is a bodhisattva, and we, the children and grandchildren of our family, don¡¯t expect mother-in-law to praise a few words. It¡¯s me who is a daughter-in-law. Yes, I also have the guts to look forward to my mother-in-law¡¯s mercy!¡±

    Old Madam Ling laughed happily at the witty words.

    Among the four daughters-in-law, the eldest daughter-in-law, Sun, lived in the capital with the eldest son, and the remaining three daughters-in-law lived in the Ling family¡¯s old house.

    The second daughter-in-law Yue was shrewd and mean, and the fourth daughter-in-law Wang was flexible.

    Li¡¯s family background is not high, and he was the second wife of Fifth Master Ling. However, she was the daughter-in-law of her own son. In Mrs Ling¡¯s heart, she had a little higher position than Yue and Wang.

    Mrs Li was eloquent, and she was deliberately coaxing Mrs Ling. Soon, Mrs Ling¡¯s attention was diverted from the pair of sister and brother Ling Jingshu.

    ¡°Mother-in-law¡¯s 70th birthday is coming soon. The uncle¡¯s family left the capital more than half a month ago. If you count the days, they should arrive in Dingzhou in seven or eight days.¡±

    Mrs Li knew Mrs. Ling¡¯s thoughts. So she said what Mrs Ling liked to hear: ¡°The Lu family also rushed back from Jizhou on purpose. It has been eight years since the daughter-in-law was married to the Ling family, and she has never seen her sister-in-law who married far away! We will meet at last.¡±

    Speaking of the young daughter who was married to Jizhou for many years and never returned to her parental home, Mrs Ling¡¯s eyes suddenly softened: ¡°Yes, Ah Hui is married to Jizhou. In the past 12 years, only letters have been exchanged, and I haven¡¯t seen her for a long time. If it was not my 70th birthday this year, I¡¯m afraid she may not come back.¡±

    With a smile, Li shi immediately took over the words: ¡°Taking advantage of this time, I have to make my sister-in-law stay longer.¡±

    Yue shi and Wang shi also smiled and agreed in unison.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression did not change when she heard the word ¡°Lu Family¡±, but her right hand tucked in the large sleeve robe tightened.

    The fingernails were pinched into the palms of the hands, tingling.

    The anger and hatred were like scorching lava, roaring and surging in her heart, almost rushing out of her chest.

    At this moment, the concierge steward ran in with a happy face and reported: ¡°Greetings, Old Lady, the steward waiting at the pier just sent a message back, that the boat my aunt took has arrived at the pier.¡±

    1. concubine born sons

 Chapter 3

    Has the Lu family arrived in Dingzhou?

    Old Mrs. Ling was surprised and delighted, and Huo Di stood up: ¡°Quick, quick, let someone prepare a carriage to pick them up.¡±

    ¡°Mother-in-law is happy, did she forget that there is a carriage waiting at the pier?¡± Mrs. Li smiled and took the call.

    Mrs. Ling laughed dumbly: ¡°Look at me, I¡¯m so happy and confused, I forgot about it.¡±

    Seeing that Mrs. Li was stealing the limelight, Mrs. Yue felt unwilling and immediately said with a smile: ¡°The dock is far from our Ling residence. It¡¯s half a day¡¯s journey before the steward came back to deliver the letter, it seems that the carriage has already arrived halfway, maybe it will arrive in a while.¡±

    Wang also said with a smile: ¡°The guest room is already ready. Before they arrive, let the maidservant first. The children will clean the guest room again. This daughter-in-law remembers that my sister-in-law likes to clean the room the most before she gets married.¡±

    The last sentence won the favor of Mrs. Ling.

    Mrs. Ling glanced at Mrs. Wang approvingly: ¡°It¡¯s still you whose thoughts are most helpful. The fourth child has been in charge of the shop and farm for the past few years, and you have learned a lot from following the fourth.¡±

    Mrs. Wang pursed her lips and smiled respectfully. She replied: ¡°Thank you mother-in-law for your praise. The fourth master often said that it is a son¡¯s duty to be able to share some trivial matters with his mother. If he knew that his mother praised him like this, he would be very happy.

    ¡± With a sneer, she glanced at Wang Shi invariably.

    This Wang Shi, who doesn¡¯t seem to talk much on weekdays, is no weaker than the two of them in coaxing the old lady.

    Mrs. Wang didn¡¯t seem to notice the expressions of jealousy and hatred in Mrs. Yue and Mrs. Li¡¯s eyes, so she vacuously supported Mrs. Ling¡¯s arm: ¡°The Lu family is almost here, mother-in-law might as well go back to the dormitory to rest for a while, change into new clothes, and then after freshening up, you will look more energetic.¡±

    Mrs. Ling nodded happily.

    Mrs. Li responded very quickly, and immediately supported Mrs. Ling¡¯s other arm: ¡°The fourth sister-in-law is right, the daughter-in-law will wait for the mother-in-law to rest.¡±.

    Ling Jingshu looked at this familiar scene and sneered in her heart.

    The Ling family has never been separated. Except for the main house that has been living in Luoyang, the capital, the rest of the three houses live in the ancestral house.

    The trivial matters in the house were distributed to the sons and daughters-in-law, but the keys to the warehouse were all in the hands of Mrs. Ling. In addition to the fixed monthly schedule of each room, if you want to buy more things or extra expenses, you must get the approval of Mrs. Ling.

    Among the several daughters-in-law, the eldest daughter-in-law, Sun, was from a prestigious family, and the dowry was quite generous. With her husband living in Luoyang, her status was the highest. Both Yue and Wang were concubine-born daughters, while Li¡¯s family was not well-known, and their dowry and private houses were not abundant. Naturally, she had to use all her powers to coax old lady Ling into favor and fight for more benefits.

    It¡¯s a pity that although old lady Ling is old, she is not confused at all. She enjoys the flattery and service of her daughters-in-law with peace of mind, and never promises any benefits easily.

    All in all, a few daughters-in-law want to fight for power with the old lady Ling, and it¡¯s still far from it!

    Yue shi withdrew her gaze angrily, just in time to meet Ling Jingshu¡¯s insightful eyes.

    Yue Shi was a little embarrassed by being seen through, but she refused to lose the restraint of being an elder, and coughed and said: ¡°Sister Shu, the Lu family is here today, and there must be a banquet in the evening. You are not in a good shape, don¡¯t stand for too long. It will hurt your vitality.¡±

    Ling Jingxian smiled and said, ¡°Cousin Shu, you go back to Qiushui Pavilion to rest first, and I will call you when they come.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need to trouble Cousin Xian.¡± Ling Jingshu said lightly, ¡°I haven¡¯t recovered yet. I won¡¯t be coming out tonight for the reception banquet so as not to disturb the interest of the distinguished guests.¡±

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s eyes flashed quickly with a hint of joy, and she said, ¡°Aunt has brought her cousins ??from afar, how can you not attend this reception banquet? Grandma If she finds out, will definitely be unhappy. You should stick to it and show your face!¡±

    Duplicity!

    Ling Jingshu twitched the corners of her lips: ¡°If you lose your courtesy in front of the distinguished guests, don¡¯t you lose your grandmother¡¯s face. Besides, with Cousin Xian here, I¡¯m afraid no one will notice if I don¡¯t show up.¡±

    I can¡¯t afford this flattery.

    Not to mention, these words were still from Ling Jingshu¡¯s mouth who had always pressed her head.

    A trace of complacency flashed across Ling Jingxian¡¯s face, and she said with a hypocritical smile: ¡°How can this happen? My cousin is the most outstanding of all cousins. If the family banquet is without you, it will be greatly eclipsed.¡±

    Ling Jingshu was not in the mood to talk to her. After dealing with them, she greeted the pair of mother and daughter and then withdrew.

    ¡­

    As soon as she returned to Qiushui Pavilion, Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t wait to ask: ¡°Ashu, your aunt¡¯s family is visiting, why don¡¯t you want to go out to see them?¡±

    Bai Yu was also puzzled.

    Although the young lady is weaker, she still has the strength to show her face at the reception. The words just now were just excuses.

    Ling Jingshu was silent for a moment and then said lightly: ¡°Before I am completely healed, I won¡¯t see them. It won¡¯t be too late.

    In her previous life, their aunt returned and lived with the Ling family for three months. She couldn¡¯t stay away from her forever. However, she is not ready to face the Lu family.

    In her current state, if she met the enemy of her previous life, she is afraid that her mood is unstable and she can¡¯t control her emotions at all and will show tricks and cause suspicion.

    Before Ling Xiao can ask, Ling Jingshu changed her tone of soft pleading: ¡°Axiao, if grandmother asks about me, can you say a few words for me? Otherwise, my grandmother will definitely be mad at me.

    Ling Xiao immediately softened his heart and stopped asking questions. He nodded and assured: ¡°Then you can rest well, and I will come to accompany you when you are free.¡±

    The maid Jingyu who was standing by the side came over and carefully helped Ling Xiao to leave.

    Bai Yu quietly stepped forward and said softly, ¡°Miss, your body is not healed yet, have a rest! ¡±

    Since she was reluctant to go out on the grounds of being ill and weak, she simply did a full set of acting.

    Ling Jingshu nodded.

    ¡­

    Shen Shizheng, the Lu family finally arrived at Ling¡¯s house.

    ¡°When my aunt got married, the slave girl was just born. I haven¡¯t seen my aunt. However, I have heard many times from the house steward¡¯s mother. The old lady gave birth to her aunt after forty, and love is like a pearl in her palm. It¡¯s a pity that my aunt married far away in Jizhou and never returned to her parent¡¯s home for so many years. The old lady and the aunt, the mother and daughter reunited, not to mention how excited they were.

    The little maid Xuan Cao stood beside the bed and reported the news she had inquired brightly: ¡°The slave did not dare to lean forward to take a closer look, but only peeked a few times from a distance. These are all heard from other girls. ¡±

    ¡°It was so exciting. The old lady and the aunt cried and laughed, the fourth master and the fifth master shed tears, and several wives were all crying. The young masters and the young ladies also wiped away their tears and cried into a pot of porridge. ¡±

    Xuan Cao was only twelve years old, with a sharp tongue and a clever temperament, and usually does some errands of sending messages. She was entrusted with an ¡°important task¡± today, and Xuan Cao was overjoyed and was extraordinarily diligent in running errands to find out the news.

    Ling Jingshu sat on the bed, covered with a soft silk quilt, leaned against the thick pillow, and listened casually.

    It was almost evening, and the candlestick had not yet been lit in the house, and the light was a little dim.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s delicate and flawless face also seemed to be covered with a layer of veil, which was obviously close at hand, but also strangely strange and distant.

    Bai Yu quietly looked at her master, thinking secretly in her heart.

    After the lady woke up today, it seems that it is different from the past!

    At the age of ten, she was sold into the Ling residence. She stood tremblingly with the other little girls, nervously unable to speak. The six-year-old lady selected her and gave her the name Baiyu.

    From that moment on, her fate was closely linked to Miss.

    The maids¡¯ deeds are in the hands of the master, and it is common for them to be scolded and beaten when they encounter a master with a bad temper. The most fearful thing is that the master will betroth herself out at will, or be sold out of the house and be reduced to a place where she was pickled. As a slave, fate is in the master¡¯s mind.

    The master and servant have been with each other for eight years, and the young lady treats her honestly and tolerantly. In her heart, she has long regarded Miss as the closest and most important person.

    No matter what the young lady becomes, she will follow her faithfully as always.

    Xuan Cao continued to say with great interest: ¡°Later, the servants of the Lu family were busy carrying luggage and settling down, and my aunt led the two young masters to Yonghetang. The slaves were too short, and I couldn¡¯t see the young masters¡¯ appearance even when I was on tiptoes. I only heard that there was a young master who was born with a face like a crown, jade, and like Pan Anjun, beautiful and suave, but unfortunately, the slaves couldn¡¯t see it with her own eyes¡­¡±

    ¡°Xuan Cao,¡± Ling Jing suddenly opened her mouth, interrupting her. She continued: ¡°You did a good job. Now go to Yonghetang again. If you have any latest news, come back and report to me at any time.¡±

    Xuan Cao was praised, and with great joy in her heart, she answered it crisply and withdrew excitedly.

    The face is like jade and like Pan Anjun, a beautiful and suave cousin of the Lu family¡­Ling Jingshu tugged at the corner of her lips sarcastically.

    Her Lover with whom she fell in love at first sight in the previous life, and married the sweetheart who promised each other to be together for life!

    No one is more familiar with his appearance than her!

    She had thought that he would be her lifelong support and future. But the ruthless reality gave her a fatal blow.

    After just two years of newly-married love and sweetness, he went to Luoyang for the imperial exam. After the good news of being the first-placed champion, she was so happy that she didn¡¯t sleep for a few nights. She was talking to her two-month-old son: ¡°Your father passed the exam and is going to stay in the capital to become an official. He will be back soon and pick up our mother and two to go to Luoyang together¡­ ¡±

    However, in the following years, he never came back.

    Handsome, talented, and young, he had won the favor of the most honorable princess in the country. He wanted to climb the dragon and the phoenix to enjoy wealth and honor, so he abandoned his wife and children who were longing for his return in far away Jizhou.

    He threw her into the filthy Lu family and she died of humiliation and hatred¡­

    Until the moment she closed her eyes full of resentment and pain, she never saw him again.

 Chapter 4

    The memories buried deep in her mind, whistled sharply, and tore the scars at the bottom of her heart ruthlessly, revealing blood-dripping pain

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes flashed with thick self-mockery and pain, her chest seemed to be pressed by a boulder, and she was almost suffocating.

    Bai Yu is the most attentive and sensitive, and has already noticed Ling Jingshu¡¯s strangeness, and asked with concern: ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong with you? Do you feel uncomfortable?¡±

    Ling Jingshu stretched out her hand tremblingly: ¡°Bai Yu, let me rest for a while.¡±

    She hugged holding Bai Yu, she buried her head in Bai Yu¡¯s warm chest, and her shoulders shrugged slightly.

    Her mother died early, and her twin brother was blind and needed someone to take care of her. As the eldest sister, she had to protect her younger brother, try her best to compete for the favor of her grandmother, and gain a firm foothold in the face of the covetousness of her stepmother, aunt, and cousins.

    She was diligent, and careful, and did not dare to make mistakes. When encountering grievances and sorrows, there was no one she could talk about, so she could only cry quietly in Bai Yu¡¯s arms for a while.

    Bai Yu subconsciously hugged the slender body in her arms.

    Listening to Ling Jingshu¡¯s sorrowful sobs, Bai Yu¡¯s heart also tightened, and she said softly, ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong? If you have anything, please tell the servants. Although the servants are unable to mitigate the worries of the young lady, I can always share some worries for the young lady.¡±

    The gentle whispers in her ears were as warm as those in her memory.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s crying gradually stopped, she sat up straight, wiped her tears with her sleeve, and said slowly, ¡°I¡¯m fine, but I¡¯m not feeling well. I¡¯ll just cry for a while.¡±

    The best thing about Bai Yu is that she never talks too much. What Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t want to say, she didn¡¯t probe about it, she just followed Ling Jingshu¡¯s words and said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Miss, take a rest, and the servant will go to the kitchen to cook some porridge.¡±

    The meals of the masters of Ling Mansion were all prepared and delivered by the large kitchen. There was a small kitchen in each yard, which was convenient to boil some hot water or make some snacks and the like. It¡¯s okay to have a meal alone, but once you apply it, you have to take care of it yourself.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s body is weak, so it is not suitable to eat too greasy and meaty food, it was best to drink some light porridge.

    Ling Jingshu also felt hungry, smiled, and nodded.

    After Bai Yu left, Ling Jingshu restrained her smile and said to herself silently, ¡°Ling Jingshu, tears are useless except to make those who love you anxious and worried.

    From now on, she will no longer cry weakly and helplessly, and she will be strong to face everything that is coming.

    ¡­

    Ling Jingshu was ¡°rehabilitated¡± in Qiushui Pavilion and lay on the bed for three days.

    The fifth room population was not small. Ling Wuye had four children in total. The eldest son Ling Ting was born to Concubine Xia, Ling Jingshu and his younger siblings were the direct descendants of the late main wife Mrs. Yao, and Ling Yu was from the present main wife Mrs. Li. He was only six years old this year.

    Ling Wuye was a romantic celebrity. He drank and wrote poetry and invited friends to hang out with all day long, and he never asked how her health was. The stepmother, Mrs. Li, came here once because of her face. After only sitting for a while, she left saying a few words.

    Ling Ting and Ling Yu were busy reading every day, so naturally, they didn¡¯t have time to see her.

    Only Ling Xiao came to see her three times a day, once in the morning, in the evening, and during lunch.

    The intimacy was visible at a glance.

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t feel disappointed or sad either. Those who treat her with sincerity, she will return with sincerity. People who don¡¯t care about her, why should she care about their words and deeds?

    Mrs. Ling also sent Mo Kui twice.

    Mo Kui spoke rather euphemistically, implying that Ling Jingshu should get better soon.

    There were distinguished guests in the mansion, and it was not polite for Ling Jingshu to avoid showing her face all the time. Mrs. Ling didn¡¯t say it, but she was actually a little unhappy in her heart.

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t pretend that she didn¡¯t understand Mo Kui¡¯s suggestion, and said with a smile: ¡°Thank you, Sister Mo Kui, for the reminder. Speaking of which, my body is really unsatisfactory. I have been lying on the bed for the past few days and resting, making my grandmother worried. Please go back and report to my grandmother, Sister Mo Kui, tomorrow morning I will go and say hello to my grandmother.¡±

    After saying that, she winked at Bai Yu.

    Bai Yu immediately put the prepared purse into Mo Kui¡¯s hand, and whispered affectionately, ¡°Miss Mo Kui, in front of the old lady, please say a few words of kindness for our young lady.¡±

    Mo Kui pretended to decline a few times before accepting it.

    After Mo Kui left, Bai Yu sighed worriedly: ¡°Miss, what Mo Kui just said is very clear. You have been avoiding your face, and the old lady is not happy.

    ¡± The Old Lady is the sky above everyone¡¯s head. If you want to live well in the mansion, you must not make old lady Ling unhappy.¡±

    Ling Jingshu knew this truth without Bai Yu¡¯s reminder. No matter how much she resented the indifference of old lady Ling in her heart, she could never show it. She must do her best to please Mrs. Ling as she used to.

    Otherwise, she will be in real trouble.

    ¡°I know what to do.¡± Ling Jingshu smiled at Bai Yu, her eyebrows rose with confidence: ¡°You can rest assured.¡±

    Seeing Ling Jingshu¡¯s confident smile, Bai Yu¡¯s uneasy heart also calmed down.

    ¡°Miss,¡± Xuan Cao came in and reported, ¡°The Eighth Miss is here to see you.¡±

    ¡­

    Ling Jingxian walked in briskly and called out to her cousin with a smile.

    Today¡¯s Ling Jingxian, wearing a light yellow dress, her face was lightly powdered, and it was radiant and charming. A pair of eyes flashed with a strange look.

    A sarcastic smile flashed across Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes.

    When a girl¡¯s love first starts, she almost wrote that joy on her face¡­ She was so stupid back then!

    Ling Jingxian and her have never been at odds with each other, so she came to ¡°visit¡± her today, obviously with ulterior motives.

    As expected, after a few gossips, Ling Jingxian quickly brought up the topic of the cousin from the Lu family: ¡°¡­Cousin Shu, you have been behind closed doors for the past few days, haven¡¯t seen Cousin Hong yet.¡±

    Cousin Hong¡­ it was really affectionate.

    Ling Jingshu twitched the corners of her lips, but there was no smile in her eyes, and she replied casually, ¡°Why do you need to ask something so obvious, I haven¡¯t seen him before. How could Cousin Xian suddenly mention this? Brother, is there something wrong?¡±

    Ling Jingxian bit her lip, and her face flushed quietly: ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong. It¡¯s just¡­ just¡­¡±

    After a long time, she didn¡¯t say the following words.

    Ling Jingshu looked coldly at Ling Jingxian pretending to be shy.

    When the Lu family in the previous life arrived at the Ling family, she greeted them along with everyone. Then, she and Lu Hong fell in love at first sight. Lu Hong only had her in his eyes, and could no longer tolerate others. Although Ling Jingxian fell in love with Lu Hong, it was a pity that Lu Hong was intentional and ruthless. She could only watch helplessly as she and Lu Hong fell in love with each other.

    Lu Hong asked Ling to propose marriage to her. As a stepmother, Ling¡¯s relationship with Lu Hong had always been lukewarm. Lu Hong was in love with her stepmother¡¯s niece, and Mrs. Ling was naturally happy to see it happen and quickly proposed marriage to Mrs. Ling.

    Mrs. Ling agreed without any hesitation.

    The Lu family was a famous family among the great families in Zhou. Although the Ling family was not bad, compared with the Lu family, it was more than a step behind. Back then, when the Ling family married into the Lu family, it was only as a second wife. Now that the main eldest son of the Lu family wants to marry the granddaughter of the Ling family, there was no reason for the Ling family not to agree.

    What¡¯s more, Lu Hong was young and handsome, personable and knowledgeable. Standing with Ling Jingshu they were like a pair of people made in heaven, and they will never humiliate Ling Jingshu. Furthermore, Ling Jingshu married into the Lu family, and her mother-in-law was her aunt from the same parents, so she would never treat her harshly.

    Mrs. Ling still has some selfishness that was not for outsiders. The Ling family married far away and was the second wife, and the relationship with the stepson was cold, which was always a hidden danger. His mother¡¯s niece became a daughter-in-law, and she would definitely stand on Ling¡¯s side in the future. Ling¡¯s control of the central feeder can also be smoother and easier.

    Mrs. Ling decided on the marriage. Fifth Master Ling was quite satisfied with the Lu family¡¯s background. He admired Lu Hong¡¯s literary style even more and was happy to see the marriage succeed.

    At that time, who would have thought that this ¡°golden and jade marriage¡± that everyone praised would end up like that?

    ¡­¡­

    The thoughts are free, and the thoughts are a little far away.

    In this life, she has been avoiding appearance. Lu Hong has not met her yet, and naturally, there is no story of love at first sight. The first person to see Lu Hong was Ling Jingxian!

    She thought, she probably guessed Ling Jingxian¡¯s intention¡­

    Ling Jingxian was embarrassed for a moment, and finally summoned up the courage to say, ¡°Cousin, I have something important to tell you.¡±

    She glanced at Ling Jingxian, that insightful look made Ling Jingxian feel guilty for a while and lowered her head subconsciously.

    ¡°Bai Yu, you guys step back first. You are not allowed to come in without my order.¡± Ling Jingshu gave a light command.

    The maids quickly left.

    Only Ling Jingshu and Ling Jingxian were left in the room.

    Ling Jingshu looked at Ling Jingxian and said calmly, ¡°Cousin Xian, what do you want to say? You can say it now!¡±

    Ling Jingxian blushed and whispered, ¡°Cousin Shu, I will be an adult in May. It¡¯s time for my hairpin ceremony.¡±

    After the hairpin ceremony, it¡¯s time to talk about marriage.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes flickered, and a sentence came out coldly: ¡°Cousin Xian, do you like that cousin Hong?¡±

    Ling Jingxian: ¡°¡­¡±

    Ling Jingxian was suddenly struck by her heart. No matter how scheming, after all, she was still a girl in a boudoir, and her pretty face blushed suddenly. But she did not deny it.

    After a long while, Ling Jingxian said in a low voice, ¡°Cousin, I¡¯m not afraid that you will laugh at me. In the past two years, I have gone out with my mother as a guest, and I have met some young men of the same age. But I never thought about it. Three days ago, when I saw Cousin Hong for the first time, I fell in love with him.¡±

    ¡°He was born as beautiful as jade, just like the bright moon in the sky. When he smiled at me, I fell in love with him. My heart almost jumped out of my chest. In the past few days, I¡¯ve been fascinated by him, thinking about him all the time¡­¡±

    Listening to Ling Jingxian¡¯s emotional confession, it was as if she saw herself, as a naive idiot back then.

    Ling Jingshu felt a little unstable and interrupted Ling Jingxian impatiently: ¡°Cousin Xian likes Cousin Hong, she should tell your mother quietly, and think of ways to facilitate the marriage. Why are you telling me about it?¡±

 Chapter 5

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s tenderness was interrupted abruptly, and her smile suddenly became awkward and stiff.

    For a moment she didn¡¯t know how to say the next words.

    Seeing her reaction like this, Ling Jingshu was even more sure of what she was thinking, but she only thought that Ling Jingxian was selfish and ridiculous. She didn¡¯t bother to go around in circles with her and said bluntly: ¡°There are only the two of us here. If you have anything to say, just say it!¡±

    Ling Jingxian blushed a little embarrassedly.

    Ling Jingshu raised her eyebrows and looked at Ling Jingxian with a half smile.

    Based on what she knew about Ling Jingxian since she was here, she would say the words she had planned in her heart no matter what.

    As expected, Ling Jingxian held back for a long time, and finally made a bold request: ¡°Cousin Shu, I love Cousin Hong with all my heart, and when my grandmother¡¯s birthday is over, I will beg my mother to secretly mention the marriage to my aunt¡­ You don¡¯t want to fight with me for Cousin Hong, okay?¡±

    There are many cousins ??in the Ling family, and the most beautiful is Miss Ling Jiu, the daughter of the fifth room. Someone with good deeds secretly gave Ling Jingshu the title of the first beauty in Dingzhou.

    Ling Jingxian and Ling Jingshu are about the same age and are often compared. The most often heard is: ¡°The eighth miss of your house is beautiful, but the ninth miss is even better¡­¡±

    ¡°I heard that the ninth miss is good at planting peonies, and the famous peony in the Ling family¡¯s peony garden. Most of them were planted by Ninth Miss¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know who is lucky enough to marry Ninth Miss Lu¡­¡±

    Ling Jingshu! Ling Jingshu! Always Ling Jingshu!

    As long as there is Ling Jingshu, Ling Jingxian becomes an inconspicuous green leaf. She was jealous, but she was helpless. On weekdays, she was full of energy, always thinking of finding a chance to overwhelm Ling Jingshu.

    This time, when the Lu family came to visit, she fell in love with Lu Hong at first sight and secretly vowed to marry Lu Hong. Although she didn¡¯t want to admit it, she knew very well that once Ling Jingshu shows up, she was afraid that Lu Hong¡¯s attention will all be on Ling Jingshu¡­ After thinking about it, she finally came up with this method.

    She had to express her mind first!

    Ling Jingshu knew her intentions, so she naturally wanted to distance herself from Lu Hong.

    ¡­

    As expected.

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t get angry but smiled: ¡°Cousin Xian, these words are too ridiculous. I have been staying in Qiushui Pavilion for the past few days, and I have never seen that cousin of the Lu family. Where does the word ¡®grab¡¯ come from? Besides, it¡¯s up to you who you like and who you want to marry, and it has nothing to do with me. If you came to me for this, it would be ridiculous.¡±

    The sentences were sharp and merciless.

    Ling Jingxian was choked and speechless.

    This cousin has always been gentle and submissive, and she doesn¡¯t say a word when she eats a lot of stuff occasionally, that¡¯s why she came forward cheekily and made such an unreasonable request¡­ Unexpectedly, Ling Jingshu¡¯s reaction was so brutal and cold.

    Ling Jingshu said coldly, ¡°Cousin Xian, if you have nothing else to do, please do it yourself!¡± She opened her mouth to expel people unceremoniously.

    Ling Jingxian didn¡¯t care about her face anymore, she took Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand and pleaded softly, ¡°I was wrong just now, and I didn¡¯t speak properly, which made you unhappy. I¡¯ll accompany you, please don¡¯t be angry, okay? ¡±

    However, I didn¡¯t lie to you just now, every word I said came from the sincerity. We have been two sisters for so many years, and I have never asked you anything, so just promise me this time! As long as you stay away from cousin Hong If you don¡¯t pay attention to him, even if you help me¡­¡±

    Self-talk, self-righteous.

    Why did she think she would agree to such a selfish request?

    Ling Jingshu tugged at the corners of her lips sarcastically, just as she was about to refuse mercilessly, a light flashed in her mind.

    In this life, she would never want to be involved with Lu Hong in the slightest! In this case, why not help Ling Jingxian ¡°with a helping hand¡±?

    No, that¡¯s not right!

    Even if the relationship between the two is not on good terms, they are still cousins, and there is no deep hatred. Knowing that the Lu family is a fire pit, if she just sat and watched Ling Jingxian jump into it, it could be unbearable¡­

    Only this hesitant effort was taken by Ling Jingxian.

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s eyes flashed with joy and relief, and she clenched Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand: ¡°Cousin, if you don¡¯t speak, I¡¯ll take it as if you agreed.¡±

    Ling Jingshu frowned: ¡°When did I agree¡­¡±

    ¡°If I get my wish in the future, I will never forget your kindness today.¡± Ling Jingxian turned a deaf ear to Ling Jingshu¡¯s words, and said quickly: ¡°I¡¯ve been here for so long, it¡¯s time to go back, cousin Shu, rest well. I¡¯ll come to you tomorrow morning, and we will go and say hello to grandma together.¡±

    After speaking, she hurriedly got up and left.

    Ling Jingshu: ¡°¡­¡±

    After Ling Jingxian left, Bai Yu walked in quickly. When she saw Ling Jingshu¡¯s unhappy face, Bai Yu immediately asked with concern, ¡°What did Miss Eighth tell you?¡±

    Ling Jingshu couldn¡¯t help but snorted, ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say, I¡¯m too lazy to care about her!¡±

    Bai Yu was confused. .

    Ling Jingshu explained it in succinct words: ¡°Cousin Xian fell in love with cousin of the Lu family at first sight, so she came today to beg me especially to stay away from the cousin of the Lu family in the future. ¡±

    Bai Yu: ¡°¡­¡±

    An angry look appeared on Bai Yu¡¯s pretty face: ¡°How can Miss Eight say that, it¡¯s too much. ¡±

    How can there be such a truth in the world. Not to mention that the young lady has not met the young master of the Lu family, everything is impossible to talk about. Even if they did meet, the young master of the Lu family fell in love with her own young lady, do you want to hand it over to the eighth young lady? Otherwise, it will become the young lady¡¯s fault?

    Ling Jingshu was originally a little annoyed, but looking at Bai Yu, who was angry for her, the anger quickly dissipated: ¡°Forget it, it¡¯s not worth being angry about such a little thing.

    After a pause, he said lightly: ¡°Actually, even if she didn¡¯t say it, I would stay far away from that young master Lu. ¡±  I only wish to be a stranger in this life.

    Ling Jingshu lowered her eyelids slightly to hide all the emotions in her eyes.

    ¡­

    The next morning, Ling Jingxian really came early. As soon as they met, she called out affectionately. Cousin Sheng, then took the initiative to choose clothes and jewelry for Ling Jingshu.

    ¡°Cousin Shu, come and try this pink dress. And this set of red gold and ruby ??head jewelry. ¡°Ling Jingxian had a bright smile, and she was very enthusiastic.

    Bai Yu looked at the side, she was really sullen.

    This lotus color is a bit dark and not bright enough. When picking the fabric that day, it was a few young ladies in the house who picked the rest. The young lady took it back with a good temper and didn¡¯t care about it. She has never worn it since it was made into a dress.

    There is also the set of red gold and ruby ??head and face jewelry that Mrs. Ling gave as a gift during the Chinese New Year. Although the workmanship is exquisite, it also looks old-fashioned.

    Ling Jingxian chose these, and she didn¡¯t have any good intentions at all.

    Bai Yu coughed and opened her mouth euphemistically, ¡°Miss Eighth, let¡¯s pick another one¡­¡±

    ¡°Cousin Xian has a good eye.¡± Ling Jingshu interrupted Bai Yu with a smile, ¡°Just wear it. This one is ready. Bai Yu, come and serve me with dressing.¡±

    Bai Yu reluctantly responded, gritted her teeth in her heart. When she took the dress from Ling Jingxian¡¯s hand, she couldn¡¯t help but sneered: ¡°The eighth miss really has a good eye. Our lady is dressed like this today, I think it will leave a ¡®deep¡¯ impression on everyone.¡±

    Bai Yu deliberately said the two words deeply.

    No matter how careful Ling Jingxian was, she had not yet cultivated to the state of being thick-hearted and dark-hearted, and she suddenly became embarrassed.

    Ling Jingshu calmly gave Bai Yu a wink.

    Bai Yu had to keep her mouth shut, and quickly waited on Ling Jingshu to change and dress up.

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s eyes widened in surprise when Ling Jingshu appeared in front of her.

    The unflattering pink color looks surprisingly good on Ling Jingshu¡¯s body. The pale, jade-like cheeks were reflected in a faint pink. The hair like clouds was pulled into a beautiful bun, and a whole set of red gold and ruby ??head and face jewelry was neatly worn, showing a dignity and calmness far better than that of girls of the same age.

    Although it is not as stunning as in the past, it is more attractive and makes people unable to take their eyes off¡­

    Obviously, she deliberately chose dark-colored dresses and old-fashioned jewelry, but Ling Jingshu wore it on her body and was still gorgeous. Breathtaking.

    Ling Jingxian felt both jealousy and hatred in her heart, her eyes almost popping out.

    Bai Yu looked at Ling Jingxian¡¯s distorted pretty face, and her heart that had been depressed for a long time suddenly calmed down. She deliberately asked with a smile, ¡°Miss Eighth, please take a good look. Our lady is dressed like this, so you won¡¯t be rude in front of the distinguished guests!¡±

    Ling Jingxian squeezed out a smile: ¡°Cousin Shu is so beautiful and well-dressed, how could it be rude.¡±

    Bai Yu pretended to be relieved and let out a sigh of relief: ¡°That¡¯s good. It¡¯s not in vain for Miss Eight to bother picking up dresses and accessories.¡±

    Ling Jingxian: ¡°¡­¡±

    Bai Yu was so protective of her shortcomings, which made Ling Jingshu feel both comforted and amused. She let Bai Yu taunt Ling Jingxian a few words, and then smiled lightly: ¡°It¡¯s getting late, we should also go to Yonghetang.¡± Ling Jingxian¡¯s interest when she came has been dispelled for the most part, and she responded with a sullen expression.

    ¡­

    The sisters joined hands and soon arrived at Yonghetang.

    At this time, there were already many people in the inner hall of Yonghetang.

    Mrs. Ling was still sitting on top. However, it is not the son and daughter-in-law who were sitting next to Mrs. Ling today, but the daughter Ling who has returned from a long way.

    Ling Shi was twenty-eight years old this year. She was pampered and well-maintained. She looked younger than her actual age and had a rosy complexion. The appearance was not particularly beautiful, but there was the charming charm of a mature woman between her eyebrows and eyes.

    The slightly raised eyebrows and the gleam in her eyes occasionally showed the same look as Mrs. Ling.

    But the ruthless means were beyond the reach of Mrs. Ling.

    For the sake of her status, she did not hesitate to push the niece of her natal family into the fire pit, and threatened her to submit with the child¡¯s life. A few years later, she strangled her to death with a three-footed white silk¡­

    ¡°This is the fifth brother¡¯s daughter, Sister Shu!¡± Ling¡¯s smile was kind and her eyes were very kind: ¡°Come here quickly, Let your aunt take a good look.¡±

 Chapter 6

    In the past three days, Ling Jingshu has thought about the reunion with Mrs Ling countless times and imagined that she would become very agitated. But at this moment, she was as calm as ice and snow.

    All the hatred and anger were firmly pressed into the bottom of her heart.

    Waiting for the coming day to spew out.

    Ling Jingshu let out a faint smile, stepped forward, and gave a proper salute: ¡°The niece greets her aunt.¡±

    Her voice was soft and sweet like the first cry of a yellow warbler.

    Mrs Ling secretly praised in her heart and looked at Ling Jingshu a few times. She saw her eyebrows and eyes were beautiful and remarkable, and her face was as calm as water. What is even more rare is that there is no impetuousness and escape, which made people feel good.

    Surprise and astonishment flashed in Ling¡¯s eyes: ¡°When I got married, you were less than two years old, and couldn¡¯t even call me aunt. In the blink of an eye, you have become a beautiful girl.¡±

    Ling Jingshu lowered her head. She nodded and replied in a soft voice: ¡°Shu¡¯er doesn¡¯t deserve such high praise from her aunt.¡±

    Mrs Ling smiled and took Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand: ¡°You have been sick and did not show up a few days ago, and your aunt has prepared a gift for you, and I can finally give it to you today.¡±

    After speaking, she turned her head and commanded, ¡°Wei Zi, go back to the house and get the brocade box on the dressing table.¡±

    The maid in the indigo dress responded, turned and stepped back.

    Mrs Ling seemed to like Ling Jingshu very much, so she held her hand like this, and went on to gossip with Old Lady Ling: ¡°I have been married to the Lu family for many years, and I have only given birth to a son like A Qian. I have always wanted a daughter, but unfortunately I couldn¡¯t. It¡¯s true. Now that I see a gentle and well-behaved girl, I¡¯m especially jealous!¡±

    Yi Xi¡¯s words were witty and interesting, making the old lady Ling laugh non-stop: ¡°You girl, you are now a mother, and you are still like this. Naughty. Anyway, you and Sister Shu are so close together, just take her back when you leave. ¡±

    Even after knowing that Old Lady Ling was joking, Ling Jingshu still felt a chill in her heart.

    Ling¡¯s familiar laughter sounded: ¡°This is what my mother said. The second sister-in-law, the fourth sister-in-law and the fifth sister-in-law all heard it and you have to be witnesses.¡±

    This sister-in-law naturally wouldn¡¯t disappoint, so they wanted to join in the fun: ¡± Okay, we will all testify. Even if the fifth master comes back, there is no place to deny it.¡±

    When Mrs Ling returned to her parents¡¯ house, she was in a good mood, and immediately took over the words with a smile: ¡°The fifth brother has such a precious daughter, it will be strange if you don¡¯t turn your face with me.¡±

    Ling Jingshu resisted the urge to withdraw her hands, and lowered her head, revealing just the right amount of shyness and joy.

    Ling Jingxian, who was standing beside her, was almost unable to laugh, and the jealousy in her heart was burning.

    It¡¯s always like this every time! As soon as Ling Jingshu appeared, everyone¡¯s eyes would revolve around Ling Jingshu¡­

    Wei Zi quickly brought the brocade box over.

    Ling opened the brocade box and took out a pair of jade bracelets: ¡°Although this jade bracelet is not a top-quality Hetian jade, it is of good quality. Come on, auntie will put it on for you now.¡±

    As she said, she personally helped Ling Jingshu put on the jade bracelet.

    Ling Jingshu showed a grateful smile at the right time, and taking advantage of the fact that she had to bow to her to thank her, withdraw her hand.

    ¡­

    After the salute, Ling Jingshu and Ling Jingxian stood beside Ling Jingwan together.

    The elders were talking and chatting, and the juniors don¡¯t have to be too restrained. When they get together, they can¡¯t avoid whispering.

    ¡°Cousin Wan,¡± Ling Jingxian asked quietly, ¡°Cousin Hong and cousin Qian, why didn¡¯t they come with our aunt?¡±

    Ling brought Lu Hong and Lu Qian back together this time. Lu Hong is the direct descendant of the original wife and the grandson of the family of Lu. Lu Qian is from the Ling family and was twelve years old this year.

    At that time, Ling got married at the beginning of the year and was soon pregnant. The child was born prematurely in less than eight months. Ling nearly lost her life in dystocia, and she did not get pregnant again for several years.

    Ling Qiantian was frail and sickly since he was a child, and Mrs Ling put all of her energy into making her son grow up safely, and she was particularly fond of him.

    Thinking of Ling Qian, Ling Jingshu subconsciously frowned, and immediately returned to normal.

    Ling Jingwan didn¡¯t notice the strangeness of Ling Jingshu, she said with a smile: ¡°Cousin Hong stayed in the mansion for three days and thought it was too boring, so he went to Ling¡¯s home school with my cousin Qiang early this morning.¡±

    ¡°Cousin Hong is really eager to learn and make progress!¡± When Lu Hong was mentioned, Ling Jingxian¡¯s eyes suddenly shone: ¡°I heard that cousin Hong already has a reputation as a scholar, and he will definitely be named in the gold list in the future.¡±

    Ling Jingshu smirked at Ling Jingxian¡¯s glance.

    Looking at her excited look, what does it have to do with her if Lu Hong¡¯s title is on the Gold List?

    Ling Jingwan was very careful and keen, and obviously noticed something, and smiled: ¡°Cousin Hong seems to have great prospects, and he will definitely not be in the pool in the future. Although we are only cousins, we all hope that he will stand out. One day.¡±

    Intentionally or unintentionally, she bit the two cousins ??harder.

    To say that my cousin is actually a bit far-fetched. Lu Hong was from the original partner, not born to Mrs Ling. There was no blood relationship at all.

    Ling Jingxian closed her mouth a little embarrassedly.

    Ling Jingwan turned her head to look at Ling Jingshu, and smiled quite gratified: ¡°Cousin Shu is in good shape. I have been worrying about these days, and now I can finally feel relieved.¡±

    If you really care about her, why didn¡¯t you think about visiting her in Qiushui Pavilion once?

    Ling Jingshu pursed her lips and smiled: ¡°Thank you, cousin Wan, for your concern.¡±

    Ling Mansion has a large population and everyone was not a fuel-efficient lamp. Ling Jingwan looked at the beauty and quietness, but she was actually alert.

    Mrs. Ling loves Ling Jingshu the most, and Ling Jingxian was jealous. Ling Jingwan is not a saint, so how could she not be secretly jealous? It¡¯s just that Ling Jingwan was better at hiding her face than Ling Jingxian. Moreover, Ling Jingwan¡¯s marriage was decided at the beginning of the year, and now she was only thinking about getting married, and her mind about competing with Ling Jingshu had also faded a lot.

    ¡­

    Old Lady Ling liked to be lively. So at noon, everyone stayed for lunch.

    They were all female relatives, and there was no need to divide the seats, so they sat down around the big table.

    Ling Jingshu was sitting across from Mrs Ling by accident. Occasionally, when she raised her eyes, Ling¡¯s smiling face filled with spring breeze came into her eyes.

    Familiar smile, piercing eye pain.

    Ling Jingshu has never hated her own powerlessness more than now. Obviously the enemy is sitting in front of her, just within reach. But she can¡¯t do anything!

    To get revenge, do you want to marry into the Lu family like in the previous life?

    As soon as this thought crossed her mind, Ling Jingshu dismissed it without hesitation. In this life, she no longer wants to be involved with Lu Hong at all. If she wants revenge, she must find another way. What¡¯s more, her enemies are far more than Ling¡¯s¡­

    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t Sister Shu ever used chopsticks, is the food not to your taste?¡± Mrs Li said with a pretended look of concern to make sure everyone noticed.

    The eyes of the people suddenly came over. The food in Ling Jingshu¡¯s bowl really hadn¡¯t changed much.

    Sitting across from Ling¡¯s, it was strange that she could eat.

    Ling Jingshu replied lightly: ¡°There¡¯s no reason for the food in Yonghetang to be bad. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m not in a good shape and have a bad appetite. I made my mother worry about it.¡± The lukewarmness made Li hit a soft nail.

    Mrs Li was secretly annoyed, but her face did not reveal the slightest sign: ¡°Illness comes like a mountain, and it goes away like a thread. My daughter¡¯s body is already more delicate. You can take care of it in the future, and don¡¯t leave any root causes.¡±

    Old Lady Ling took over the words angrily: ¡°You girl, you have a bad appetite, why don¡¯t you tell me in advance. Just let the kitchen prepare some light food.¡±

    After speaking, she instructed Mo Kui: ¡°Go to the kitchen now, let the kitchen stew a bowl of bird¡¯s nest for Sister Shu.¡±

    As soon as she finished speaking, Ling Jingshu received four glances with hints of jealousy. Of course, two of them belonged to Ling Jingxian, and the other belonged to Ling Jingwan.

    Bird¡¯s nest is expensive, and only Old Lady Ling ate a bowl of it every day in Ling¡¯s house.

    In fact, let alone bird¡¯s nest at this time, even if it is the dragon liver and phoenix gallbladder, Ling Jingshu has no interest at all. However, this represents the favor of Old Lady Ling, which cannot be denied.

    Ling Jingshu smiled gratefully: ¡°Grandmother is so kind to Shu¡¯er. Shu¡¯er must have accumulated virtues and good deeds in her past life, and she is fortunate enough to be her granddaughter in this life.¡±

    This flattery made her want to throw up.

    Lady Ling was quite pleased, her old wrinkled face stretched out, she turned her head with a smile and said to Mrs. Ling: ¡°Ahui, when you were not married, you were the best at making me happy. I have a daughter-in-law and granddaughter over the years. With them, I¡¯m not lonely.¡±

    Of course, the daughter-in-law¡¯s weight in Mrs. Ling¡¯s heart is far from being on a par with her daughter¡¯s. Even all the granddaughters were not as good as Mrs Ling.

    The past few days after Mrs Ling came back, the old Lady felt very comfortable, and the smile on her face almost never stopped.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like to hear what my mother said. I was a filial piety back then, but I didn¡¯t mean to make you happy.¡± Ling¡¯s coaxing skills are really top-notch, and just two sentences made Mrs. Ling smile.

    ¡­¡­

    The bird¡¯s nest needs to be simmered on a low heat, and the stewed bird¡¯s nest will be delivered when the feast is about to dissipate.

    Ling Jingshu pretended to be full of joy, and ate a bowl of bird¡¯s nest in the eyes of everyone who was envious, jealous or coveted.

    After lunch, the old Lady was used to taking a nap. Everyone wisely retired.

    Before Ling Jingxian left, she gave Ling Jingshu a complicated look.

    Ling Jingshu just pretended not to see it, and led Bai Yu to retreat.

    ¡°Miss has been staying in the autumn water pavilion these days, it must be very boring.¡± Bai Yu suggested with a smile: ¡°The weather is fine today, why don¡¯t you go to the peony garden to have a look. The few pots of peonies that Miss planted last year should be blooming in a few days.¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s heart moved and she nodded.

    Since her rebirth, she has been bored in the Qiushui Pavilion, the dark and painful past has been surging in her heart all day, and she had to face Mrs Ling, which made her inevitably gloomy. So it was good to go to the peony garden to relax.

 Chapter 7

    In March, the grass grows and the warbler flies, the spring flowers bloom, and the fragrance of flowers and herbs floats in the air.

    It¡¯s the best time of the year.

    People at that time loved peonies, and the peony in Luoyang, the capital of the Great Zhou Dynasty, was even more famous all over the world. In Dingzhou City, there are many people who love peonies. Those with rich and luxurious family backgrounds often regarded the construction of peony gardens as elegant things.

    The peony garden of the Ling family was very famous in Dingzhou, with dozens of varieties of famous peonies. This year, the latest variety of multi-coloured peonies was also planted, which bloomed in March, a month earlier than the usual flowering period, and became famous for a while. It attracted many people¡¯s curiosity, and they sent them a post to come to the door to enjoy the flowers.

    As Mrs Ling¡¯s birthday was approaching, the mansion was busy preparing for the birthday banquet and had no time to entertain guests, so she politely declined the invitation. In this way, it made people even more curious, and they secretly inquired about which gardener planted it. When they learned that the multi-coloured peony was planted by the ninth miss of Ling¡¯s residence, Ling Jingshu¡¯s reputation became more and more famous in Dingzhou City.

    Ling Jingshu had been recuperating in Qiushui Pavilion these days, naturally, she didn¡¯t know about this. Even if she knew it, she won¡¯t take it to heart.

    She experienced all kinds of pains and tribulations in her previous life and died of humiliation. Now that she was reborn, she was no longer the carefree boudoir girl she used to be. All she was thinking about was how to take revenge, there was no time to pay attention to these false names.

    There were three gardeners in the peony garden covering an area of ??about ten acres. There were also some servants who do manual chores. Seeing Ling Jingshu entering the garden, they each relaxed their hands and feet and quietly retreated.

    At this time, the peony blooming season had not yet arrived, and the peonies in the peony garden had not yet bloomed. There were lush branches and leaves as far as the eye can see, and the buds of different colours were dotted within them, which had its own unique charm.

    Ling Jingshu walked slowly in the path, her eyes wandering at will, and her mood gradually relaxed.

    Bai Yusui followed Ling Jingshu and said with a smile, ¡°Miss, the pot of multi-coloured peony you grafted and cultivated last year has already bloomed. Miss has been staying in the Qiushui Pavilion these days, and hasn¡¯t seen it with your own eyes!¡±

    Ling Jingshu raised her brows and raised the corner of her lips: ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll go take a look right now.¡±

    A large area was planted with ordinary peony varieties, and most of the real famous peonies were potted plants. By ramets, grafting, cuttings, layering and many other methods, the rare peonies were carefully cultivated.

    Ling Jingshu has been fond of peonies since she was a child, and she deliberately learned how to cultivate peonies from a skilled gardener. She was ingenious and talented. In just a few years, she had become better than her master.

    In the northeast corner of the garden, there were many famous peonies, such as Bai Yujing, Jade Black Sunflower, Yao Huang and so on. Most of the maids in Ling Mansion were named after this.

    Ling Jingshu spends almost all her spare time in the peony garden, except when reading, practising calligraphy, practising the piano and learning the rules. Most of these peonies were carefully cultivated by Ling Jingshu.

    Ling Jingshu stopped in front of a pot of peonies.

    This pot of precious and rare multi-coloured peony is commonly known as Erqiao, also known as Luoyang Brocade.

    The preciousness of Luoyang brocade lies in the blooming of two different colours of flowers on the same branch. Not only are the flowers different in colour, but the branches and leaves on both sides were also completely different. It¡¯s like two completely different peonies merged into one.

    Breathtaking.

    The pink and white flowers were tender and beautiful, the purple-red flowers are delicate and bright, the flowers were as large as the mouth of a bowl, the petals were warm and thick, and the colours were bright and complex.

    The green leaves were dripping with emerald-like colour.

    Ling Jingshu leaned over slightly, and the refreshing aroma rushed towards her face, refreshing her heart.

    She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and inhaled the faint fragrance into her belly. The corners of her lips were raised high.

    ¡­¡­

    Sudden footsteps broke the silence.

    who is it?

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t stand up straight, just turned her head slightly.

    In the afternoon, the bright and dazzling sunlight fell on her delicate and lustrous jade-like face, her black eyes sparkled like jewels, and a strand of mischievous hair fell gently on the side of her face. The smile on the rosy lips had not yet subsided like a flower blooming.

    The bright and beautiful peony did not take away her charm, and a smile was enough to make the onlooker pale.

    All this beauty was not real, like a dream.

    The brocade-clothed boy who suddenly appeared stood there in a daze, forgetting to move. His eyes were fixed on the girl in the flowers, unable to move away.

    The heart of the young man, which had never bloomed before, was beating fast at this moment.

    Against the light, Ling Jingshu couldn¡¯t see the face of the person coming. But in the past few years, this person¡¯s voice, face and smile have been deeply engraved in her heart, and she had not forgotten for a moment.

    Like a thunderclap, in an instant, blood rushed to her mind.

    Lu Hong!

    How dare you appear in front of me!

    Why do you still have the face to see me!

    ¡­¡­

    Obviously only a short moment, but time seems to stand still, stagnant in this moment.

    Bai Yu coughed softly and broke the silence in a low voice: ¡°Miss, this should be the young master of the Lu family.¡±

    Not everyone can enter the inner garden of the Ling residence. Although it was an unfamiliar face, he stepped forward casually. It was obviously Lu Hong, the cousin of the Lu family that Ling Jingxian spoke of.

    The young man was about fifteen or sixteen years old, with a slender body, wearing a light blue brocade garment, sword eyebrows and star eyes, a nose like a gall, lips like Danzhu, and a face like a crown of jade.

    Ling Xiao was also born very well, but compared with the young man in front of him, he lacked the look of looking forward to flying.

    No wonder Ling Jingxian begged her master regardless of the girl¡¯s reserved face. This young master, as expected, is an elegant and beautiful young

    The man was like no other in a thousand miles¡­ Bai Yu was secretly amazed, but when her eyes fell on Ling Jingshu¡¯s face, she couldn¡¯t help but be startled.

    His expression was stiff and his eyes were cold. It¡¯s not like meeting a distinguished guest, but like meeting a mortal enemy¡­

    ¡°Bai Yu, let¡¯s go!¡± Ling Jingshu forced herself to lower her eyelids, and there was nothing wrong with her indifferent tone.

    Bai Yu hesitated for a while, then said in a low voice, ¡°Miss, since we met, let¡¯s say hello! It seems a bit rude to leave like this.¡±

    The visitor was a guest! What¡¯s more, this young master was the eldest son of the Lu family, with a distinguished status. Even looking at Ling¡¯s face, he can¡¯t be neglected. Otherwise, Mrs Ling must be unhappy when she finds out.

    Bai Yu didn¡¯t need to say these words, Ling Jingshu knew it well.

    After this hesitation, Lu Hong had already walked over.

    If you want to avoid it, you can¡¯t avoid it!

    Ling Jingshu calmed down and looked up.

    Lu Hong¡¯s appearance was very good, and his temperament was even more outstanding. When walking, he is not hurried or slow, and his demeanour was graceful.

    It is this demeanour that fascinated the noble princess of the Zhou Dynasty. She was willing to bear the reputation of winning her husband, but also to keep him in the princess¡¯ mansion¡­

    ¡°I have met the two cousins ??in the Ling mansion, you must be the cousin of the fifth room!¡± Lu Hong said as he stopped two meters away, clasped his fists with both hands, and gave an equal salute: ¡°My surname is Lu, and my name is Hong. You can just call me Cousin Hong.¡±

    Warm and courteous, personable with impeccable courtesy.

    In contrast, Ling Jingshu¡¯s reaction was much colder, and she returned a salute very casually: ¡°It turns out to be the cousin of the Lu family.¡±

    The reluctant perfunctory expression on her face was clearly visible.

    Lu Hong touched a soft nail and was not angry. A slightly eager gaze settled on Ling Jingshu¡¯s unusually indifferent pretty face: ¡°My second brother and I came to Ling¡¯s house with my mother, and I heard that my cousin was ill, and I have visited to see my cousin, I am sorry for that.¡±

    As he spoke, he was secretly annoyed in his heart.

    He actually wasted three days in vain?

    I should have gone to visit her on the first day of my arrival. That way I can get to know her sooner.

    ¡­¡­

    The familiar eyes made Ling Jingshu¡¯s repressed resentment and hatred surge in her chest again.

    Day after day of waiting, day after day of despair, struggling in endless humiliation and pain. Waiting for his return day and night to save her from water and fire. But what she waited for was the bad news that he had another heart and another embrace.

    How much I loved him back then, and how much I hated him later.

    How could she deal with him casually?

    She can¡¯t wait to have a blade in her hand and stab into his chest fiercely!

    Lu Hong was immersed in inexplicable excitement and joy, but did not notice Ling Jingshu¡¯s silence for a while, and continued with a smile: ¡°On the first day I came here, I heard my grandmother talk about you. I heard that you are good at cultivating famous peonies and also planting them. The multi-coloured peonies came out. Today I went to the home school to study, and I had a half-hour break after lunch. So I came to the garden to enjoy the flowers. I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here.¡±

    When Lu Hong waited for a while for Ling Jingshu to speak, he finally realized that something was wrong, and when he met Ling Jingshu¡¯s cold and hostile eyes, he became more and more puzzled.

    The two met for the first time. He was observant everywhere and did not dare to be disrespectful to this beautiful woman. Why was her attitude so bad?

    ¡°Cousin Shu,¡± Lu Hong suppressed the confusion in his heart and tried his best to show his best demeanour: ¡°I have liked peonies since I was a child, and the Lu family has also planted a lot of famous peonies, but these multi-coloured peonies are not easy to grow. I don¡¯t know if I can ask my cousin to give me some pointers?¡±

    After giving me one or two instructions, I can ask the second time with a cheeky face¡­

    Ling Jingshu refused expressionlessly; ¡°This is my unique secret skill, and it has never been shared.¡±

    Lu Hong: ¡°¡­¡±

    The smile on Lu Hong¡¯s face froze.

    Growing up so big,  he had met many boudoir girls. Some were shy and timid, or dignified and polite, while some were more daring, and secretly greeted him with affection.

    It¡¯s the first time in his life that he took the initiative to strike up a conversation with someone like today, but he met someone with a grey nose.

    Embarrassed, angry, annoyed¡­ I want to walk away, but I can¡¯t move.

    All kinds of complicated emotions intertwined, making the arrogant eldest young master of the Lu family stand on the spot, not knowing how to react for a while.

    Ling Jingshu let out a wicked anger in her heart, she only felt very happy in her heart, and gave a light command, ¡°Bai Yu, let¡¯s go back.¡±

    As she spoke, she walked past Lu Hong without looking at Lu Hong.

    Bai Yu was stunned for a moment and hurriedly chased after her.

    Only Lu Hong was left, standing blankly on the spot, watching the slender but indifferent figure of the beauty go away.

 Chapter 8

    Lu Hong stood there for a long time.

    A familiar voice interrupted his thoughts: ¡°Big brother!¡±

    Lu Hong came back to his senses and called out ¡°Second brother¡± with a smile.

    The boy standing in front of him was about eleven or twelve years old, with fair skin and delicate features. It was Lu Qian, the second young master of Lu¡¯s family room.

    Lu Qian was born in less than eight months and was frail and sickly since childhood. I don¡¯t know how many precious supplements and decoctions I have eaten before I grew up safely. His body was far less than that of a young man of the same age, and he was not tall, only came up to Lu Hong¡¯s chest.

    Lu Hong had an indifferent relationship with his stepmother Ling, but he loved and cared for his younger brother very much. The two brothers had a very deep relationship.

    ¡°I just finished lunch, and I didn¡¯t see you.¡± Lu Qian complained with some dissatisfaction: ¡°I¡¯m looking for you everywhere, why are you standing here alone?¡±

    Lu Hong subconsciously didn¡¯t want to mention the encounter with Ling Jingshu, so he casually said: ¡°The peony only blooms in April, and in the Ling family¡¯s garden, the multi-coloured peonies that bloom in March are planted. I have nothing to do by myself, so I just came to see them with my own eyes.¡±

    Fearing that Lu Qian would continue to ask questions, he hurriedly pointed at the blooming peony not far away, he said, ¡°Look, this is Luoyang Brocade. A flower with different colours and has different branches and leaves!¡±

    Lu Qian followed Lu Hong¡¯s gaze and looked over.

    Huge flowers were hidden among the green branches and leaves, beautiful and charming.

    ¡°It¡¯s really beautiful.¡± Lu Qian exclaimed with a smile: ¡°I heard from my grandmother that it was planted by cousin Shu. Cousin Shu is really clever and ingenious, but unfortunately she has been recovering from illness, I haven¡¯t seen her¡­ ¡°¡­¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu just left not long ago!¡±

    Lu Hong blurted out.

    Lu Qian¡¯s eyes quickly flashed an eager light, and his voice trembled strangely: ¡°Brother, have you met cousin Shu?¡±

    Lu Hong didn¡¯t notice Lu Qian¡¯s strangeness, nodded and replied: ¡°Well, I saw her here. When I came to Peony Garden before, she happened to be there.¡±

    The surprise, at first sight, was deeply imprinted in my heart. Probably will never be forgotten in this lifetime.

    Unfortunately, for some unknown reason, Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t seem to have a good first impression of him¡­ It¡¯s a bit polite to say that, it¡¯s very bad.

    There must be some misunderstanding that he didn¡¯t know about. The next time I see my cousin Shu, I have to ask a question and explain the misunderstanding.

    Lu Hong¡¯s thoughts floated around, and it took a moment for him to come back to his senses.

    This time, he just met Lu Qian¡¯s inquiring gaze: ¡°Brother, what are you thinking about? Are you thinking of cousin Shu?¡±

    Lu Hong coughed with a guilty conscience: ¡°Nothing, don¡¯t talk nonsense.¡±

    Lu Qian blinked, and suddenly asked with a smile: ¡°Brother, is cousin Shu beautiful? Is she gentle?¡±

    Lu Hong suppressed the turbulence in his heart and nodded: ¡°Yes, it is indeed beautiful.¡± Beautiful, but not really gentle. Her cold eyes can make people freeze.

    Lu Qian continued to ask: ¡°What did you tell her just now?¡±

    Just as Lu Hong was about to answer, he suddenly felt that something was wrong, and he couldn¡¯t help laughing: ¡°What are you asking about? I met her for the first time, but we exchanged names and greeted her. I didn¡¯t say anything at all.¡±

    Of course, the matter of showing goodness but being categorically rejected was not mentioned.

    Lu Qian smiled a little unnaturally: ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I just asked casually.¡± Soon the topic started again: ¡°Lunch break is almost over, let¡¯s go to Ling¡¯s home to study now! Before it¡¯s too late.¡±

    Lu Hong responded with a smile, and before leaving, he subconsciously looked at the blooming Luoyang Brocade.

    Lu Qian watched Lu Hong¡¯s subtle actions, and there was a gloom in his eyes that was not proportional to his age.

    ¡­

    Bai Yu held back all the way, and after returning to the Qiushui Pavilion, she couldn¡¯t help but tentatively ask: ¡°The young master of the Lu family is very handsome, and he understands etiquette well, there is no rudeness. Why did the young lady embarrass the Biao Young Master Biao?¡±

    The young lady was usually gentle and kind, and she rarely even treats her servants with a straight face. Today, she was extremely indifferent to the Biao young master whom she just met, which was really puzzling.

    Ling Jingshu saw Ling Shi and Lu Hong one after another, her heart fluctuated and her mood was unstable, far less calm than her appearance, and she responded a little impatiently: ¡°There is no reason, I just don¡¯t like him. Do you need a reason to hate someone? ?¡±

    Bai Yu: ¡°¡­¡±

    Ling Jingshu choked Bai Yu for a while, secretly annoyed and blaming herself. Bai Yu asked a few questions out of concern, how could she turn her anger on Bai Yu?

    ¡°Bai Yu, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Ling Jingshu¡¯s tone softened, and an apologetic look appeared on her face: ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to rebuke you. I just don¡¯t like people from the Lu family. I feel disgusted from the bottom of my heart and don¡¯t want to have any contact with him. ¡±

    Bai Yu was moved for a while.

    At this time, the status of the slaves was low, the master was in a bad mood, and it was common to be beaten and scolded. How could the master apologize to the maid? Miss treats her too leniently!

    ¡°Since the young lady doesn¡¯t like the young master of the Lu family, just ignore him in the future.¡±

    Bai Yu quickly changed her mind and began to make suggestions for Ling Jingshu: ¡°Auntie will definitely live for a while when she comes back this time. The young master of the Lu family lives in Ling¡¯s residence. In the future, we will have the opportunity to meet. It is better to get close to Miss Eight, if Young Master Lu takes the initiative to speak, Miss Eight will definitely block him.¡±

    This is a good idea.

    Ling Jingshu smiled and nodded.

    Seeing that her suggestion was accepted, Bai Yu felt very relieved, and continued with a smile: ¡°If the young master of the Lu family comes to Qiushui Pavilion, the young lady will pretend to be sick and not be cured.¡±

    Ling Jingshu responded with a smile, but she didn¡¯t take it seriously.

    Bai Yu said this because she did not understand Lu Hong¡¯s temperament.

    If he made up his mind to approach and please a person, there were many ways to do it. Blindly avoiding was not the solution. However, she was already cold-hearted and could never be moved, so there was nothing to worry about.

    ¡­

    The next morning.

    As soon as they arrived at the entrance of Yonghetang, they met Lu Hong and Lu Qian¡¯s two brothers.

    ¡°Cousin Shu,¡± a surprise flashed in Lu Hong¡¯s eyes: ¡°My second brother and I came to greet my grandmother. I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here by such a coincidence.¡±

    Lu Hong wore a light blue Confucian shirt today and used a square scarf of the same colour to braid his hair. Compared with yesterday, there was less luxury of being a noble son, but it was a little more elegant. There was a just right smile on the extremely handsome face, and a pair of black eyes stared at her tenderly.

    Which young girl can refuse such a graceful and beautiful boy?

    What a ¡°coincidence¡±!

    Obviously, he had been waiting nearby for a long time, and secretly ordered his servants to watch her movements, creating such an unexpected encounter.

    Ling Jingshu twitched the corners of her lips, her eyes were indifferent, and she called Cousin Lu lightly.

    Lu Hong tried his best to ¡°meet¡± Ling Jingshu, naturally, he wouldn¡¯t back down because of this little setback, he said with a smile: ¡°Cousin Shu doesn¡¯t have to be so unfamiliar, I¡¯m two years older than you, you call me Cousin Hong. That¡¯s it.¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression was still indifferent: ¡°I will go to Yonghetang to greet my grandmother. If cousin Lu is not in a hurry, please let me go and don¡¯t stand in my way.¡±

    Lu Hong: ¡°¡­ ¡±

    Bai Yu looked at the Biao young master Lu Hong, whose face was turning red and white, and there was a trace of sympathy in her heart.

    It¡¯s really strange that the always gentle and kind lady seems to be particularly disgusted by this young master, and she refuses to even be perfunctory and polite. With a cold face and cold words, she almost said ¡°I hate you, get out of the way¡±.

    Lu Qian stood aside, never speaking, his eyes fixed on Ling Jingshu¡¯s indifferent pretty face. The shock in his heart, no one knows.

    That gaze was like a substance, hard to ignore. Quickly brought back some distant and unpleasant memories.

    Ling Jingshu moved quietly in her heart and looked at Lu Qian.

    ¡°Cousin Shu,¡± Lu Qian almost immediately returned to normal, smiling and clasping his fists and bowing: ¡°I¡¯m Lu Qian. Cousin Shu can call me Qian¡¯s cousin or A Qian.¡±

    The slightly thin and frail young man was not tall. Even shorter than her. There was a pleasing smile on his white face, and his delicate eyebrows were very similar to Ling¡¯s.

    Ling Jingshu frowned invisibly, quickly raised her brows, and bowed her head in a salute: ¡°It turns out to be my cousin.¡±

    The attitude was not warm, but it was better than the indifference shown towards Lu Hong. Lu Qian said with a smile: ¡°Since we¡¯re here together, let¡¯s go to Yonghetang to greet grandmother! It¡¯s more lively if there are more people. Cousin Shu will come first.¡±

    .

    It¡¯s just that Lu Qian¡¯s face is young and immature, but it seems a bit ridiculous to pretend to be an adult to make such a move.

    Ling Jingshu wanted to refuse, but could not refuse, she simply answered calmly and walked in first.

    A flash of joy flashed in Lu Qian¡¯s eyes, and he greeted Lu Hong with a smile: ¡°Brother, let¡¯s go in too.¡±

    Lu Hong¡¯s enthusiasm was hit against the wall, freezing cold from the inside to the outside, and he felt that he was greatly embarrassed in front of Lu Qian. , can¡¯t slow down for a while. Nodding indiscriminately, he felt very depressed.

 Chapter 9

    Since Ling¡¯s return, Yonghe Hall had bee more lively than before.

    Old Lady Ling was reluctant to part with her daughter, so she simply let Mrs Ling live in Yonghetang. Brother Lu Hong and Lu Qian lived in the guest room and came to pay their respects every day. A group of daughters-in-law, grandsons, and granddaughters made an appointment every morning and evening, and even Fourth Master Ling and Fifth Master Ling also showed up.

    Although the main hall of Yonghe Hall was spacious, it seemed crowded with so many people staying inside.

    The elders sat and talked, and the younger generations had no place to sit, so they stood together and talked quietly.

    Ling Jingshu habitually stood beside Ling Xiao, and asked in a low voice, ¡°A Xiao, where did you go yesterday? Why haven¡¯t I seen you all day?¡±

    Ling Xiao always came to Qiushui Pavilion several times a day. But yesterday he was missing.

    Ling Xiao replied with a smile: ¡°The elder brother took the third younger brother to the home school. Seeing that I was free, he asked me to listen in.¡± After a pause, he sighed again: ¡°However, there are many things that I can¡¯t listen to or understand.¡±

    There was a look of disappointment on his handsome face.

    After being blind, you can no longer read and practice calligraphy. This is Ling Xiao¡¯s biggest regret.

    The servants around Ling Xiao are literate and often read to him. However, no one explained the meaning of the scriptures to him, and he was half-knowledgeable and vague. When he went to home school, most of what was being taught, he didn¡¯t understand.

    Ling Jingshu felt sore, took Ling Xiao¡¯s hand, and forted her softly, ¡°Ah Xiao, if you like reading, nothing is stopping you from pursuing it.¡±

    ¡°Ah Shu, don¡¯t fort me.¡± Ling Xiao muttered listlessly: ¡°I can¡¯t see, so where can I still read?¡±

    Ling Jingshu said with a smile: ¡°There is a servant next to you who reads to you every day. If you don¡¯t understand something, you can ask your father, or you can ask some of your cousins. Or ask father for a young boy to go to home school to study for you every day, and tell you what he has learned in detail.¡±

    In addition to the inconvenience of practising calligraphy, it is not much worse.

    Ling Xiao¡¯s face lit up, and she subconsciously clenched Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand, his voice was full of joy and surprise: ¡°Ashu, how could you e up with such a good idea!¡±

    Seeing Ling Xiao¡¯s joy, Ling Jingshu also felt relieved in her heart: ¡± I¡¯ve been thinking about this for the past few days. A Xiao, you like to read, just try to read it, don¡¯t let it go to waste. Let our father see your hard work.¡±

    She had other plans in her mind, but, there were so many people at that time, it was inconvenient to talk to Ling Xiao in detail.

    Ling Xiao¡¯s nature is simple, he can¡¯t hide what¡¯s on his mind, and almost all the joy in his heart was on his face.

    ¡°Second brother, what are you and your sister talking about so happy here?¡±

    A clear boy¡¯s voice rang in their ears.

    Ling Xiao¡¯s hearing was extremely sensitive, and he ¡°saw¡± the person accurately, and called out to big brother.

    Ling Jingshu smiled slightly and looked up.

    The fifteen-year-old boy was dressed in an apricot-colored brocade robe, handsome and vigorous, with a smile on his face, looking at Ling Jingshu and his brother with kind eyes.

    This young man is none other than their elder concubine-born brother Ling Ting!

    ¡­

    Ling Ting¡¯s biological mother, Aunt Xia, was born Xia He.

    Xia Hesheng had a pretty face and a beautiful appearance. She had served Ling Wuye since he was a child, and he had a lot of affection for her. Later, she became Ling Wuye¡¯s housemaid. Not long after Yao¡¯s marriage, Xia He became pregnant.

    Yao¡¯s heart was naturally depressed, but she was a new bride after all, and she had not established a firm foothold in her husband¡¯s house. So it was inconvenient to do anything to a servant girl. A few months later, Yao shi was also pregnant, so she concentrated on raising the baby, and had no time to bother with the pregnant Xia He.

    After giving birth to Ling Ting, Xia He naturally became Aunt Xia.

    Fortunately, in less than half a year, Yao shi gave birth to a pair of dragon and phoenix twins, and the depression and grievance in her heart were instantly swept away. Even if Aunt Xia was favored, she can¡¯t shake Yao¡¯s status.

    It¡¯s a pity that Yao¡¯s life was unlucky. When Ling Jingshu and her brother were five years old, she had a serious illness and passed away. A year later, Ling Wuye married the Xuxian Li family.

    Li¡¯s father was only a sixth-rank official and his background was not as good as that of Yao¡¯s. In terms of appearance and talent, she was far behind. However, Mrs Li was quick-witted and cunning, and while being courteous and ingratiating, she won over Aunt Xia who was favored, and quickly gained a firm foothold in the inner house.

    Two years later, Mrs Li became pregnant and handed over all the chores in the yard to Aunt Xia.

    It was also in this year that Ling Xiao, who was exceptionally talented and intelligent, fell by the rockery and hit his head heavily on the rockery, bleeding profusely. Afterwards, he was blinded and could never see again.

    The old lady Ling was so furious that she questioned all the servants who were nearby that day, but she couldn¡¯t find any clues, so she had no choice but to give up.

    Fifth Master Ling felt sorry for his beloved son, and all his anger was directed at Aunt Xia who was in charge of the yard. After being angry, he ordered someone to lock up Aunt Xia, and never set foot in Aunt Xia¡¯s house again.

    Aunt Xia couldn¡¯t survive for more than two years and died of depression because of a lingering illness.

    On the surface, Mrs Li, who cares about her baby, has nothing to do with all of this. Aunt Xia was placed under house arrest on orders of the master.

    After she was placed under house arrest, Mrs Li even begged in favor of Aunt Xia¡¯s, and she got a reputation for being a good person.

    After giving birth to her son Ling Yu, the Li family finally gained a firm foothold in the Ling Mansion.

    There were three sons and one daughter in the fifth household. Ling Ting was concubine-born, and his biological mother was detested by Fifth Master Ling, so his status in the mansion was not high. Ling Xiao was born to the main wife but became a useless person because of blindness. Although Ling Jingshu was beautiful and outstanding and loved by the old lady, but after all, she was a daughter and was going to be married away.

    In this way, Ling Yu, who was the youngest, had the highest status in the fifth household and was also the most favored by Fifth Master Ling.

    From now on, no one in the fifth household can bee a threat to Li Shi.

    A few years later, Ling Jingshu married into Lu¡¯s family, and Ling Xiao ¡°died unexpectedly of illness¡± before getting married. Li¡¯s thorns in her flesh and nails were finally removed, and she felt so relieved.

    ¡­

    Because of an accident that year, Ling Xiao lost his eyesight, and Aunt Xia fell out of favor and lost her life.

    Ling Ting didn¡¯t say anything, but it was impossible for him to have no grudges in his heart. He maintains a superficial politeness with Ling Jingshu and his siblings, they don¡¯t have much contact with each other on weekdays, and they were not close.

    No one knew that all of this was caused by Mrs Li secretly. By killing two birds with one stone, she not only maimed Ling Xiao but also got rid of the favored Aunt Xia.

    Ling Jingshu always had feelings for Ling Ting. But now she already knew the truth of what happened back then, and when she looked at Ling Ting again, she no longer had the resentment and indifference of the past but instead had a little more passion.

    ¡°¡­Brother, Ah Shu thought of a way for me just now. Ask the boy next to me to go to the home school for me to study every day, and then explain it to me in detail when he es back.¡± Ling Xiao was full of enthusiasm as he told Ling Ting confidently: ¡°In this way, I can continue to study.¡±

    Ling Ting¡¯s eyes flashed, and he smiled: ¡°This method is really good. You can¡¯t see, so it¡¯s inconvenient to go to home school every day to study. Let the boy explain it to you. It¡¯s a good idea for you to run around. Although you can¡¯t practice calligraphy, and you can¡¯t take scientific exams, it¡¯s always good to read more books.¡±

    Ling Xiao was originally full of joy, but when he heard the last two sentences, the smile on his face suddenly dimmed a bit.

    Yes, no matter how many books he reads, so what. A blind man who can¡¯t write; is not qualified to take the scientific examination, let alone enter an official career¡­he can¡¯t even do ordinary things. He can only be a useless person raised in the inner house!

    ¡°Reading can help people distinguish right from wrong,¡± Ling Jingshu¡¯s smiling voice rang in Ling Xiao¡¯s ears: ¡°Reading more is always beneficial. As for what you can do in the future, it¡¯s a matter of the future, so there¡¯s no need to think about it now .¡±

    As she spoke, she glanced at Ling Ting calmly.

    There was a bit of coldness in the usually gentle and peaceful eyes.

    Ling Ting¡¯s heart shuddered, and he subconsciously stopped talking.

    Ling Jingshu coaxed Ling Xiao with a smile again: ¡°Ah Xiao, how about I acpany you to find our father later?¡±

    After Ling Xiao became blind, he stayed in the mansion all day and rarely had contact with outsiders. The calmness of a teenager is still a child¡¯s temper. A little depressed, he was coaxed by Ling Jingshu softly, and soon became happy again: ¡°Okay, I will listen to you.¡±

    ¡­

    Lu Hong stood beside Ling. When the elders spoke, Lu Hong was absent-minded and couldn¡¯t listen at all. From time to time, his eyes fell on Ling Jingshu who was not far away.

    He didn¡¯t know what Ling Jingshu was saying to Ling Xiao, but there was a gentle smile on her face, and her eyes were even softer like spring water, which made people¡¯s hearts flutter¡­

    It was a pity that such a gentle smile is only for Ling Xiao. When her eyes moved away from Ling Xiao¡¯s body, she immediately became cold.

    Thinking of the previous bump into a wall, Lu Hong felt even more frustrated.

    Lu Hong, who was immersed in his own thoughts, did not notice that Lu Qian beside him was staring at Ling Jingshu just like him.

    The eyes were focused and plex, containing secret joy and anxiety.

    The two brothers were both restless and in a trance, and didn¡¯t pay attention to what Ling was saying.

    ¡°Ah Hong, Ah Qian,¡± Ling Shi yelled, but no one answered, she couldn¡¯t help but frowned, and raised her voice a little: ¡°What are you two thinking, why don¡¯t you answer when I ask you?¡± The loud voice immediately attracted everyone¡¯s attention.

    Lu Hongjun blushed slightly, and quickly calmed down: ¡°I don¡¯t know what orders mother has?¡±

    Ling said with a smile: ¡°We set off early that day and arrived in Dingzhou first. The master was busy with work, so he agreed with me at the time that he could e some days after we left. I guess he should arrive in two days. You two have nothing to do in the house, so pay more attention to the news from the pier. Then go to the pier to pick up your father.¡±

    Lu Hong agreed without thinking.

    Lu Qian also responded, and quickly raised his head to look at Ling Jingshu.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s pretty face became stiff and pale in an instant, and her body trembled slightly. She didn¡¯t want others to notice her strangeness, so she quickly lowered her eyelids, hiding all the pain and resentment in her eyes.

    Everyone was listening to Ling¡¯s words. No one noticed Ling Jingshu¡¯s strange reaction, only Lu Qian could see it clearly.

    Shock and understanding flashed across Lu Qian¡¯s eyes. Endless pain and helplessness surged endlessly in his heart as if about to break through his thin chest.

 Chapter 10

    After that, Ling Jingshu never said a word again.

    When the morning greetings were over, everyone went back to their own room. Only Mrs. Ling led the two brothers Lu Hong and stayed to talk with Old Lady Ling.

    Ling Jingshu took Ling Xiao and went to Hexiangyuan together.

    When Yao Shi was still alive, Ling Jingshu and Ling Xiao lived with Yao Shi in Hexiangyuan. Naturally, she was very familiar with this place. After Yao died of illness, Hexiangyuan soon ushered in a new hostess.

    Mrs. Li moved in, and it would be inconvenient for Ling Jingshu and her brother to live in Hexiangyuan, so they moved to Qiushui Pavilion together. Later, Ling Xiao was accidentally blinded, and Mrs. Ling took pity on her and let Ling Xiao live in Yonghe Hall to take care of him personally.

    When Ling Jingshu went to Yonghe Hall to greet Mrs. Ling every day, she also greeted Mrs. Li by the way. However, fewer and fewer people e to Hexiangyuan.

    After rebirth, Ling Jingshu set foot here for the first time.

    Li¡¯s superficial skills have always been thorough, not to mention Fifth Master Ling was here today, so she held Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand to show her care, with a loving mother¡¯s posture: ¡°¡­ these days, I have been thinking about your body, I can¡¯t eat well and I can¡¯t sleep well. Now you are finally fully recovered, and I can finally feel at ease¡­¡±

    Looking at Li Shi who was pretending to care for her, Ling Jingshu felt an indescribable disgust in her heart.

    Ling Jingshu suddenly lost the patience of Xu and Weishen, she withdrew her hand, and responded with a half-smile: ¡°I am not a child anymore, I can take care of myself, so I don¡¯t need to bother my mother.¡±

    Mrs. Li: ¡°¡­ ¡­.¡±

    Li Shi originally wanted to be cute in front of Fifth Master Ling, but she never expected to be pushed back so forcefully by Ling Jingshu. Having lost her face, she turned red and then white, white and then red again.

    Ling Ting looked at this scene with a delicate expression.

    Fifth Master Ling also raised his eyebrows in surprise but didn¡¯t say anything.

    Ling Yu, who was only six years old, didn¡¯t understand what happened for a while, but felt that it was strange that everyone didn¡¯t speak: ¡°Mother, why did you suddenly stop talking?¡±

    Li Shi forcefully forced a smile: ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± She looked at Fifth Master Ling as if nothing had happened, and said with a smile: ¡°It¡¯s rare that the master is in the mansion today, and the whole family is gathered in Hexiangyuan. I will go to the kitchen and give orders. Let the kitchen prepare some good wine and food.¡±

    Ling Fifth Master hummed.

    For small things like ordering the kitchen, Mrs. Li didn¡¯t need to go out in person, just give an order to the maid to run errands.

    Li¡¯s being so warm was because she was showing her virtuousness in front of her husband, and secondly, because she was choking on Ling Jingshu enough, so she avoided it first to calm her mind.

    Having been a virtuous and generous stepmother for so many years, she must never show her true face in front of her husband.

    The smiling face that Li Shi was holding onto, disappeared without a trace when no one could see it when she left the main hall, and her face became gloomy. A startling chill flashed in her eyes.

    ¡­

    ¡°A Shu, e here.¡± Fifth Master Ling frowned and ordered in a deep voice.

    Ling Jingshu walked forward calmly.

    Without thinking too much, you can guess what Fifth Master Ling will say next. It¡¯s nothing more than something like ¡°a woman should be submissive and chaste and not disobedient to her elders¡±. She has heard these words many times since she was a child¡­ ¡°Girls should be submissive and chaste, and they should not speak rudely to contradict their elders, let alone be disobedient and unfilial.¡± Fifth Master Ling reprimanded with an unhappy face: ¡± You have always been sensible and obedient, why did you speak to your mother in that tone just now?¡±

    Supple and chaste, sensible and obedient!

    It was these eight words that ruined her for the rest of her life. Now that she was lucky enough to be reborn, how could she be as submissive as she was in her previous life?

    ¡°Since my mother passed, I moved to Qiushui Pavilion. At that time, I was only six years old.¡±

    Ling Jingshu raised her eyes and looked straight at Fifth Master Ling, with a calm and indifferent expression: ¡°In the past eight years, I am fortunate to have my grandmother taking care of me. It¡¯s just that my grandmother has to worry about all the trivial matters in the house, and has no time to ask me about everything. Most of the time I take care of it by myself. Myself. Father, what is wrong with what I just said?¡±

    Fifth Master Ling never expected that Ling Jingshu would contradict him, and her attitude was still so tough, so his anger suddenly surged up: ¡°Ling Jingshu! Where have you learned all the female precepts? Is that how you talk to your parents?¡±

    Fifth Master Ling was thirty-two years old this year. He looked handsome and had an extraordinary bearing. It was rare to be so angry as he was at this moment.

    When Fifth Master Ling got angry, everyone was shocked.

    Ling Ting didn¡¯t say a word, and Ling Yu, the youngest, was too frightened to speak.

    Ling Xiao¡¯s pretty face turned pale, followed the voice a few steps forward, and hurriedly grabbed Ling Jingshu¡¯s arm: ¡°A Shu, what¡¯s wrong with you, how can you contradict father! Hurry up and apologize to father! ¡±

    At this time, filial piety was the most important thing. It was not an exaggeration to say that the word filial piety was worth more than a thousand pieces of gold.

    It would not be a good thing for Ling Jingshu if she got a reputation for disobedience and unfilial piety.

    When Ling Xiao was in a hurry, he inevitably used more strength.

    Ling Jingshu glanced at Ling Xiao soothingly, thinking that Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see, she softened her voice again: ¡°A Xiao, I¡¯m not contradicting my father. I¡¯m just explaining the facts to my father. Our father has always loved us and is the most reasonable. He won¡¯t blame me.¡±

    Putting on the two tall hats on Fifth Master Ling, sure enough, his anger faded a little.

    Ling Jingshu coaxed Ling Xiao and then turned to look at Fifth Master Ling. The calm and indifferent expression on her face was replaced by a sincere expression: ¡°Father, this daughter has been sick in bed these days, and my mother had also visited. As a stepmother, this daughter is already very grateful for the care she has shown. What the daughter said to mother just now did not mean to be sarcastic.¡±

    Hearing these words, Fifth Master Ling felt unfortable.

    Ling Jingshu had been ill for so many days, and even Mrs. Li visited her once, but her biological father had never set foot in the Qiushui Pavilion¡­

    Once a person feels guilty, he will not have the confidence to speak. Fifth Master Ling¡¯s tone softened: ¡°Forget it this time. Just pay attention to your attitude when you speak in the future.¡±

    Ling Jingshu lowered her eyes slightly, and responded softly: ¡°This daughter will follow my father¡¯s teaching.¡±

    The tone was still soft and respectful, and it was the same as before.

    The sharp and indifferent Ling Jingshu just now seemed to be just everyone¡¯s illusion.

    Fifth Master Ling was so angry that he couldn¡¯t help asking a few questions with concern.

    Ling Jingshu answered one by one but sneered in her heart.

    When their mother, Yao Shi, was alive, Fifth Master Ling and Yao Shi had a fairly harmonious relationship, and they loved their two children. It¡¯s a pity that Yao¡¯s life was unlucky, and she left the two siblings and died early.

    After Mrs. Li passed the door, she quickly won Fifth Master Ling¡¯s heart. Ling Jingshu¡¯s siblings moved out of Hexiangyuan, and the chances of getting in touch with Fifth Master Ling on weekdays dwindled. After Ling Yu was born, most of Fifth Master Ling¡¯s attention was on Ling Yu, and he paid less and less attention to Ling Jingshu¡¯s siblings.

    If Ling Jingshu hadn¡¯t tried her best to please the old lady Ling and won the old lady¡¯s special respect and favor, the two siblings would not be in the current situation.

    In Fifth Master Ling¡¯s heart, future and face were the most important things. Back then, the Lu family put her under house arrest in the mansion. In order to silence Fifth Master Ling, they especially sought the position of Zhengzhou General Judge for Fifth Master Ling. Fifth Master Ling weighed it, then accepted the ¡°good intentions¡± of the Lu family, and happily led his wife and children to the post.

    He pletely ignored his daughter who had been humiliated in the Lu family.

    What a pity to have such a father!

    ¡­

    Thinking about the past, the resentment in Ling Jingshu¡¯s heart surged endlessly.

    However, now was definitely not the time to tear their face apart. If she wanted to deal with Li Shi, she must start with Fifth Master Ling. Even for the sake of Ling Xiao, she had to force herself to bear it for now.

    ¡°A Xiao and I came here on purpose today because we wanted to ask my father for something important.¡± Ling Jingshu started the conversation, but stopped: ¡°A Xiao, you can talk to our father yourself!¡±

    Ling Xiao gathered himself together and mustered up his courage to open his mouth: ¡°Father, I just stay in the mansion all day with nothing to do, wasting my time, and I feel really ashamed. I want to continue studying!¡±

    Fifth Master Ling was a little surprised, and subconsciously replied: ¡°Your eyes can¡¯t see, how can you still study?¡±

    The disapproval in his tone made Ling Xiao, who was already nervous, feel cold, and the smile froze on his face. The next words stuck in his throat.

    ¡°He can¡¯t see, but he still has ears to hear.¡± Ling Jingshu quickly took over the conversation: ¡°There is a literate boy beside A Xiao, who often reads to A Xiao on weekdays. It¡¯s just that the boy has limited knowledge and can only read. But he doesn¡¯t understand what it means. If you can pick someone who is literate and smart, he can take A Xiao¡¯s place every day to study at home, and after understanding what is being taught, he can e back and tell A Xiao to listen to it again. With A Xiao¡¯s intelligence, it will definitely be of great benefit.¡±

    The Ling family¡¯s family school was quite famous in Dingzhou, and most of the lecturers in the family school were well-educated Confucians hired with a lot of money. The children and grandchildren of the Ling family clan all studied in the family school, and some in-laws and distant relatives came to the family school by begging around.

    It¡¯s not difficult for Fifth Master Ling to arrange for a young man to study at home.

    Fifth Master Ling thought for a while before agreeing: ¡°It¡¯s a good thing that Ah Xiao wants to study. Even if you can¡¯t get fame in the future, it will always be beneficial to study more. I will send someone to tell you later that you will pick a boy to go tomorrow to the family school.¡±

    He didn¡¯t expect this matter to be resolved so easily.

    Ling Xiao was overjoyed, and quickly thanked: ¡°Thank you, father.¡±

    Seeing Ling Xiao so happy, Ling Jingshu also felt relieved.

    Fifth Master Ling praised Ling Xiao in a few words, and then looked at Ling Ting: ¡°Ah Ting, you will take part in the Tongsheng examination this year. You need to work hard these days. Look at Lu Hong, who is only one year older than you and has already passed the county exam. You can get a reputation as a scholar after taking the government examination. You have to work harder.¡±

    Ling Ting respectfully agreed.

    Ling Yu was only six years old, and he only started reading last year. Fifth Master Ling naturally wouldn¡¯t reprimand him, he just tried a few words. Mrs. Li went to the kitchen and turned back quickly. Just happened to meet Fifth Master Ling testing Ling Yu.

    Ling Yu answered in a good manner, and Fifth Master Ling was quite satisfied.

    Li Shi also felt that her face was bright, and the depression and unhappiness in her heart were swept away immediately, and she was secretly satisfied.

    Ling Ting was just a bastard, and Ling Xiao had bee blind and has bee a useless person. Won¡¯t the Fifth household have to rely on Ling Yu to support them in the future?

 Chapter 11

    He was going to home school.

    Because of this, Ling Xiao was in a great mood, and stayed in Qiushui Pavilion and talked to Ling Jingshu for a long time, his fair and beautiful face flushed with excitement.

    Ling Jingshu wasn¡¯t impatient at all, she listened with a smile.

    All the cousins ??in the family were studying in the home school. Ling Xiao stayed in the inner house all day. Although he had no worries about food and clothing, he was very lonely. Those who can e into contact with on weekdays were all the female relatives of the inner house. She was the only one who had the patience to listen to him.

    ¡°¡­By the way, when I came here just now, I met cousin Lu.¡± Ling Xiao suddenly mentioned Lu Hong: ¡°He is very kind and friendly, and even talked to me for a while! ¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression turned cold.

    Fortunately, Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see and didn¡¯t know her reaction at this time, so he continued to smile and said: ¡°Biao Brother Lu heard that I sent a servant to study at home on my behalf, and praised me. I told him it was you who thought of this, and he praised you for being so smart. He also said that the peonies you planted are very beautiful and that you have a beautiful heart¡­¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t want to hear anything related to Lu Hong, so she opened her mouth and interrupted Ling Xiao: ¡°A Xiao, grandma¡¯s 70th birthday is ing soon. All the posts in the house have been sent out. Uncle and the others haven¡¯t arrived in Dingzhou yet. Maybe something happened and they were delayed on the way!¡±

    Ling Xiao¡¯s attention was immediately diverted, and he sighed worriedly: ¡°Yeah, grandma has been talking about uncle and his family these two days.¡±

    From the capital to Dingzhou, thousands of miles away, if anything happens on the road, it will delay the trip, which is really worrying.

    ¡°Maybe they will arrive today.¡± Ling Jingshu forted Ling Xiao with a smile: ¡°Uncle and the others took the official boat all the way, and they also took the official road. Those thieves and bandits with ulterior motives never dare to approach. You don¡¯t have to worry too much.¡±

    Ling Xiao nodded obediently.

    Ling Jingshu pondered for a moment, then suddenly said in a low voice: ¡°A Xiao, I have something I want to discuss with you.¡±

    Ling Xiao laughed: ¡°If you have anything to say, just say it directly. I¡¯m not used to such a serious tone.¡±

    There was half an hour difference between their birth time, but Ling Jingshu had been taking care of him like a real elder sister. After being blind, Ling Xiao trusted and relied on her even more. Most of what Ling Jingshu opened her mouth to say, Ling Xiao obediently obeyed.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes were a little gentle, and she said in a low voice: ¡°A Xiao after you fell down, you were injured in your brain, which made your eyes blind. Many famous doctors have been invited to treat you over the years, but none of them could cure your eyes. I thought the doctors here in Dingzhou are not very skilled in medicine, and most of the real Medicine masters are in the Royal Hospital. So, I want to take you to the capital to seek medical treatment and heal your eyes.¡±

    Ling Xiao showed a surprised and confused face, he couldn¡¯t react for a while. After a long time, he stammered and said: ¡°But, but, will our father and grandmother be willing to let us go to the capital alone? Even if we arrive in the capital, how can we find a famous doctor?¡±

    Ling Jingshu has been thinking about this matter since she was reborn. At this time, speaking with confidence she said: ¡°We can go to the capital with our uncle¡¯s family and stay at their house for a while. With our uncle and aunt taking care of us, I don¡¯t think father and grandmother will worry that much.

    ¡°After arriving in the capital, I will find a way to find a famous doctor, so you don¡¯t have to worry about it. The worst result will be that your eyes remain the same. But if it is cured, you will be able to see the world again. Don¡¯t you want to study and take the scientific examination in an upright manner? ¡±

    Of course, I want to!

    In the past few years, he has had such a dream almost every day: his eyes are restored and he can see things again. He can read and practice calligraphy, and take part in scientific examinations. He will no longer be a waste in the eyes of everyone, and will no longer drag down Ling Jingshu¡­

    A strange blush appeared on Ling Xiao¡¯s fair face, his breathing was short and unsteady, and he murmured uncertainly: ¡°Will I really see again? ¡±

    Deep pity and heartache surged in Ling Jingshu¡¯s heart, she quietly squeezed Ling Xiao¡¯s trembling hand and said firmly: ¡°Yes, there will be such a day. A Xiao, you believe me!¡±

    Ling Xiao nodded vigorously.

    ¡°What I said today, only you know and I know, so don¡¯t reveal it for now.¡± Ling Jingshu said quickly: ¡°I¡¯m here for everything, so you don¡¯t need to worry.¡±

    Ling Xiao nodded subconsciously and then sighed guiltily: ¡°Ah Shu, it would be great if I wasn¡¯t a burden. You can be like cousin Wan, cousin Xian, leisurely all day long, thinking about how to make yourself more beautiful. It¡¯s all me¡­¡±

    ¡°How can you be a burden.¡± Ling Jingshu softly reprimanded him: ¡°We are two brothers and sisters. In this world, we are the closest people to each other. As long as I can cure your eyes, I am willing to do anything. ¡±

    Going to the capital, she was there first to treat Ling Xiao¡¯s eyes. Secondly, she also wanted to find opportunities for revenge.

    The identity of the enemy is inparable, and if she wants to take revenge only with her own strength, it was undoubtedly an ant shaking a tree and an egg hitting a rock. Therefore, she had to go to the capital to find another way.

    Going to the capital alone, Old Lady Ling and Fifth Master Ling would never agree. In order to heal Ling Xiao¡¯s eyes¡­.The reason for eye treatment was easy to convince them.

    Moreover, the road ahead was boundless, and she didn¡¯t know how much time and effort it will take. How could she rest assured that Ling Xiao would stay in the Ling Mansion alone?

    ¡­

    After convincing Ling Xiao, Ling Jingshu secretly heaved a sigh of relief.

    The two siblings chatted casually to pass the time. Around noon, Old Lady Ling specially sent Mo Kui over and told the two siblings to go to Yonghe Hall together.

    It was an enviable good thing to have lunch with the Old Lady in Yonghetang. There was a separate small kitchen in Yonghe Hall and the menu for three meals a day was much better than that in the big kitchen. Moreover, this also represented the favoritism of Old Lady Ling.

    In the past, this was indeed a gratifying good thing. However, Ling Jingshu couldn¡¯t laugh anymore when she thought that her aunt and the two Lu brothers were also there.

    However, Old Madam Ling¡¯s orders were never to be refused.

    After Mo Kui finished explaining her intentions, seeing Ling Jingshu¡¯s expressionless face, she couldn¡¯t help but be secretly surprised. But she didn¡¯t show anything on her face, and said with a smile: ¡°The old lady is already waiting in Yonghe Hall, and I would like Miss Nine and Young Master Ten to leave now, so as to not make the old lady wait any longer.¡±

    Ling Jingshu calmed down and responded lightly ¡°Got it.¡±

    Although Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see with his eyes, he was extraordinarily careful and keen. Immediately he noticed Ling Jingshu¡¯s strangeness, leaned close to Ling Jingshu¡¯s ear, and asked in a low voice: ¡°A Shu, don¡¯t you want to go? Otherwise, I will go there alone, and when I meet grandma, I will tell you that you are unwell¡­ ¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s heart warmed up, and her eyes softened a little: ¡°Grandmother asked me to go because she felt pity for me, so she will feel bad if I don¡¯t go. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine now.¡±

    At most, seeing Ling¡¯s mother and son, just eat some less rice.

    ¡­

    When they arrived at Yonghetang, Ling¡¯s mother and son were indeed there.

    Ling Jingshu and Ling Xiao stepped forward together to greet the Old Lady.

    The moment he saw Ling Jingshu, a gleam of joy flashed in Lu Hong¡¯s eyes, and he got up and saluted as a peer: ¡°Cousin Shu.¡±

    In front of the old lady Ling, Ling Jingshu had to endure it, and returned the salute with her usual expression: ¡± Cousin Lu is polite.¡±

    Lu Qian also got up, with a smile on his delicate face, and a cheerful and lively tone: ¡°Cousin Shu, you are finally here. I was talking to my grandmother just now, the Luoyang brocade you planted is so beautiful. Our Lu family¡¯s peony garden doesn¡¯t have such beautiful peonies.¡±

    Ling Jingshu twitched the corners of her lips lightly: ¡°My cousin Qian is praising me highly.¡±

    Lu Qian didn¡¯t seem to notice Ling Jingshu¡¯s indifference and continued to smile warmly and said, ¡°Cousin Shu, I want to ask you how to plant peonies. I wonder when Cousin Shu will be free?¡±

    One by one, they called each other very affectionately.

    Does she know them that well?

    Ling Jingshu frowned invisibly and responded perfunctorily: ¡°I am ashamed of Cousin Qian¡¯s praise. In fact, these peonies were planted by gardeners. I was just watching from the sidelines. If you are interested in planting peonies, you might as well go to the peony garden more. The gardeners will know everything and talk about it.¡±

    Lu Qian was not discouraged when he touched a soft nail. Turning to the old lady Ling and acting like a baby: ¡°Grandma, you just told me that cousin Shu is good at planting peonies. I sincerely asked cousin Shu for advice, but she simply refused to talk to me!¡±

    Ling Jingshu: ¡°¡­¡±

    This Lu Qian, did he take the wrong medicine?

    Old Lady Ling hasn¡¯t seen her grandson for so many years, and these days she almost held him in the palm of her hand, obedient to everything. Hearing this, she immediately cast a reproachful glance at Ling Jingshu: ¡°Sister Shu, since Ah Qian is interested in planting peonies, you just need to give him some pointers.¡±

    Once Old Lady Ling spoke, Ling Jingshu could no longer refuse. Because of embarrassment, she whispered: ¡°Grandmother, men, and women should have separate seats at the age of seven. My cousin is twelve years old this year. It¡¯s always inappropriate for me to go to the peony garden alone with him¡­¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu¡¯s concerns are indeed justified.¡± Lu Hong¡¯s eyes lit up, and he immediately interjected: ¡°I¡¯ll just go with you. That way, no one will gossip.¡±

    Ling Jingshu: ¡°¡­¡±

    Ling Shi saw some signs from the side, and smiled meaningfully: ¡°Alright, after lunch, you two will go to the garden together.¡±

    Ling Jingshu pursed her lips, trying to say something, but finally did not open her mouth.

    Although Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression clearly, he was keenly aware of her gloomy mood, and couldn¡¯t help being secretly surprised. Cousin Hong is kind and friendly, and cousin Qian can also be called lively and cute. But Ling Jingshu seems to dislike the two brothers¡­

    ¡°A Shu, I have nothing to do anyway, and I will go to the peony garden with you to relax later.¡± Ling Xiao smiled and pulled Ling Jingshu¡¯s sleeve.

    With him by his side, Ling Jingshu¡¯s mood should be better!

    Ling Xiao¡¯s careful thinking couldn¡¯t be hidden from Ling Jingshu.

    Ling Jingshu hummed, her brows stretched.

 Chapter 12

    After lunch, the reluctant Ling Jingshu, after all, had to lead the Lu family brothers to Peony Garden.

    Madam Ling watched the youngsters go away, with a smile in her eyes: ¡°Sister Shu is really beautiful and outstanding, much better than me back then.¡±

    Lu Hong was a young man who met a beautiful girl with a beautiful face like Ling Jingshu. No wonder he was moved¡­

    The old lady Ling was so shrewd, she had already seen some clues, and laughed softly: ¡°From what I see, Ah Hong seems to be particularly fond of Sister Shu. Take care.¡±

    The mother and daughter talked together, and there was nothing to hide.

    Madam Ling¡¯s eyes flashed, and she said with a smile: ¡°If Ah Hong has the heart, he will come and tell me. It would be a good thing if he can get closer.¡±

    With the status of the Lu family, if Ling Jingshu marries into the Lu family, it was really a good marriage for the parents and grandchildren.

    Old Lady Ling thought for a moment and said: ¡°The marriage of children is a life-long matter. You can¡¯t decide on this matter alone. When my son-in-law comes, you can discuss it with him in private.¡±

    Madam Ling nodded with a smile.

    When mentioning the son-in-law, Old Madam Ling inevitably babbled a few words: ¡°Ah Hui, you have been married to Lu¡¯s family for so many years and have never been back. Every year when you send home letters, you always choose nice and pleasant words. I don¡¯t worry about it, and there is nothing else. Now there are only two of us, mother and daughter, so don¡¯t hide it. How does my son-in-law treat you?¡±

    Madam Ling¡¯s smile paused, and there was a bit of bitterness in her tone: ¡°Master is the patriarch of the Lu family. There are a lot of affairs in the house. After serving as the governor of Jizhou, there are more entertainment and less time to come back to the inner house. Moreover, the master also has many concubines, so naturally fewer people come to my house on weekdays¡­¡±

    Words although it was euphemistic, how could Old Lady Ling fail to understand the meaning?

    The old lady Ling quickly darkened her face and said through gritted teeth: ¡°This Lu An was sincere when he proposed to marry you that day. Why did he treat you like this when he returned home after marrying you?¡±

    Ling¡¯s smiled wryly, and her voice became more and more obscure: ¡°In the end, it¡¯s my fault, no one else¡¯s fault.¡±

    Back then, Lu An came to Dingzhou because of a business and came to pay a visit to Ling¡¯s house. When she saw him, she fell in love with Lu An secretly. Later, when the Lu family came to propose marriage, Old Lady Ling thought that the Lu family was too far away and wanted to reject the marriage, but she insisted on marrying Lu An. Old Madam Ling couldn¡¯t hold her back, so she nodded and accepted the marriage.

    When they were newly married, she and Lu Ann also had a sweet love for several years. As time passed, Lu An¡¯s greedy and lustful nature was revealed. Concubines were brought into the mansion one after another, and there were countless dramas in official circles.

    Madam Ling was not yet thirty, but she had long since become a thing of the past and was neglected.

    This time, Lu An came to Dingzhou to celebrate his mother-in-law¡¯s birthday, it was because of his brother-in-law who worked in the Ministry of Industry.

    Madam Ling was too ashamed to say the last sentence. Pulling herself together, she smiled and said, ¡°Mother, you don¡¯t have to worry about me. No matter what, I am the main wife married through a matchmaker. Those Yingying and Yanyan(1) in the mansion are just for fun, so don¡¯t worry about it at all.¡±

    Old Lady Ling looked at the daughter with a strong smile, distressed and angry, and her voice was slightly choked: ¡°Ah Hui, I have really suffered for you all these years. I hate that Dingzhou is too far away from Jizhou. Mother wants to go to Lu¡¯s house to become your backup, but this old bone can¡¯t stand up to all the troubles. This time when my son-in-law comes to the door, even if I have to give up my old face, I have to ask clearly¡­¡±

    Before the words were finished, Ling¡¯s face turned pale. It was already dark, and quickly interrupted the old lady Ling: ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry about these things.¡±

    The old lady Ling was choked, and her face was a little ugly: ¡°Are you afraid that if I say these things, Lu An will not be happy?¡±

    Madam Ling¡¯s awe and fear towards Lu An were evident.

    Madam Ling didn¡¯t say a word, it was a tacit agreement.

    Old Lady Ling was filled with anger, and said bitterly: ¡°Are you going to live your life like this? There are so many Yingying and Yanyan around him. If they are favored and give birth to a son and a half daughter, you will not be happy. Won¡¯t life be more difficult then?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that.¡± A trace of bitterness flashed in Ling¡¯s eyes: ¡°I am the wife of the head of the Lu family, and no one can surpass me. Those concubines just want to have a son and a half daughter, It also depends on whether they have that blessing.¡±

    The words were sinister, savoring them carefully, which made people feel chills.

    Lu An had only two sons, Lu Hong and Lu Qian, and the rest of the concubines have also been pregnant before, but most of them miscarried due to various ¡°accidents¡± within a few months. Some lucky ones gave birth to children, but they also died young. There were only two shu daughters who were growing up safely. Naturally, they were not a threat to Madam Ling who had a son.

    After hearing these words, Madam Ling felt relieved: ¡°It¡¯s good that you know the seriousness.¡±

    As long as you can¡¯t have a son, it doesn¡¯t matter if you have more concubines.

    ¡°This time when I came back to my natal home, I only brought A Hong and A Qian back. The two shu daughters are not yet ten years old, so I didn¡¯t bring them with me because of the long distance. The master didn¡¯t say anything.¡± Ling¡¯s expression returned to normal. She smiled lightly: ¡°In the master¡¯s heart, A Hong and A Qian are much heavier than those two concubine-born daughters.¡±

    Old Lady Ling frowned. Her brows relaxed, and there was a smile on her face again: ¡°I¡¯m relieved if you can figure it out.¡±

    After a pause, she urged: ¡°Lu An is in his prime, and he is indiscreet about sex. It¡¯s a matter of method. However, you can¡¯t let it go. Pick some beautiful and reliable maids from around you to open your face and send them to him. Even if you are favored, they can be your help.¡±

    Ling nodded: ¡°This I can save the little things, mother doesn¡¯t have to worry about me.¡±

    How could it be possible not to worry?

    Old Madam Ling sighed secretly. She had just one daughter who was brought up holding her like a jewel in her palm. After being married to the Lu family for so many years, life is so unsatisfactory!

    Originally, it was just a joke about Lu Hong and Ling Jingshu, but now that I think about it, if Ling Jingshu can marry into Lu¡¯s family, she can also help Madam Ling a little bit. It¡¯s a good thing to kill two birds with one stone.

    ¡­

    Ling Jingshu took Ling Xiao¡¯s hand and entered the peony garden.

    Four gazes fell on her back, which made people feel like a thorn in their backs.

    Ling Jingshu frowned invisibly, and a trace of strangeness and vigilance suddenly surged in her heart.

    Lu Hong still fell in love with her at first sight just like in his previous life and paid attention to her everywhere¡­ She was disgusted in her heart, but she didn¡¯t think it was strange. But Lu Qian¡¯s hospitality towards her was a bit abnormal.

    Even if Lu Qian had strange thoughts about her, it should be a few years later. The current Lu Qian is just a twelve-year-old boy. He is not as tall as her, and he is still a child in her eyes¡­

    A vague idea flashed through her mind, and before she had time to think about it, she was greeted by Lu Qian¡¯s slightly excited voice Interrupted: ¡°Cousin Shu, this peony has green buds, will the peony that blooms also be green?¡±

    Compared to Lu Qian¡¯s joyful surprise, Ling Jingshu seemed less interested, and responded casually: ¡± This peony is called Bean Green, and the flowers it blooms are indeed rare green.¡±

    There are many varieties of peonies in different colors. The green peony was undoubtedly a rare treasure.

    Lu Qian didn¡¯t mind Ling Jingshu¡¯s indifference at all, and smiled happily: ¡°The peony flowering period is coming soon. My mother said that I will live in Dingzhou for a few months before leaving. It seems that I can feast my eyes.¡±

    Pointing to another peony, he asked, ¡°Cousin Shu, that one has blue buds. I don¡¯t know what kind it is?¡±

    ¡°That one is called Lantian Jade.¡± Speaking of her favorite peony, Ling Jingshu¡¯s face was filled with a smile. Her expression softened a bit, without the indifference of repelling others: ¡°I cultivated it last year. When the flowers bloom, the red pistils and blue flowers are very delicate.¡±

    When looking at the peony she liked most, the corners of her eyes and the brows revealed a trace of tenderness.

    Lu Qian looked at Ling Jingshu like this, and the joy and comfort in his heart almost overflowed from his chest. Just as he was about to say something, Lu Hong¡¯s voice rang in his ears: ¡°Cousin Shu, the one with purple buds must be Gejinzi!¡±

    Hearing Lu Hong¡¯s voice, the smile in Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes instantly disappeared without a trace and answered yes briefly.

    Anyone who has eyes can see the disgust and impatience in Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes.

    Lu Hong smiled for a while, feeling as if his heart was blocked by something, feeling extremely stuffy and uncomfortable.

    What did he say or do wrong? Why does Cousin Shu hate him so much? She didn¡¯t even want to cover up the slightest bit, and just showed it so plainly on her face¡­

    Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see Lu Hong¡¯s sad expression clearly, and Lu Qian intentionally or unintentionally  also ignored Lu Hong¡¯s ugly face, rushed to Ling Jingshu said with a smile: ¡°Cousin Shu can grow so many famous peonies, it¡¯s really amazing.¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s attitude towards Lu Qian was quite gentle, and she smiled lightly when she heard this: ¡°That¡¯s not amazing, but I have nothing to do and I like peonies, I just spent a little more thought.¡±

    She hated everyone in the Lu family, and she hated Lu Qian to a lesser extent.

    After marrying into Lu¡¯s family that year, she and Lu Hong were very affectionate. She loved the house and Wu(2), liked Lu Qian, the brother-in-law. Lu Qian was also very close to her elder sister-in-law.

    At that time, she didn¡¯t care too much.

    In her eyes, he was just a lively, cute and willful child.

    She doesn¡¯t know when he started to have unreasonable thoughts about her. Looking at her more and more earnestly, he would suddenly come to her room when Lu Hong was away, pestering her and talking nonsense and refusing to leave.

    When she sensed his thoughts, she was both shocked and ludicrous. She dared not tell others about this kind of thing, even in front of her husband. She secretly could only keep away from Lu Qian.

    Lu Qian was weak since he was a child, and Madam ling ed on him in every possible way. As long as it was what he wanted, even if it was a star in the sky, she would like to pick it up with her own hands. This also cultivated Lu Qian¡¯s capricious temper, and he must keep what he likes for himself.

    This abnormal feeling that should not exist, not only did not become cold because of her alienation but became more intense.

    T/N 1. Concubines and other such women

    2. It means that since she loved her husband she loved anyone associated with him/his family.

 Chapter 13

    Later, Lu Hong left Jizhou and went to the capital to participate in the examination.

    Lu Qian became more and more courageous, and even ran up to her and confessed his feelings to her. Shocked and angry, she scolded him mercilessly, refused sharply, and drove him away.

    Lu Qian left in a daze. Because of overthinking, he was caught in heavy rain and developed a high fever. For three consecutive days, the high fever did not subside. Madam Ling was so frightened that she stayed by the bed all day wiping tears.

    In a coma with a high fever, Lu Qian kept babbling about her boudoir name, and Madam Ling naturally heard it.

    There is no need to elaborate on how furious she was. But seeing that Lu Qian¡¯s life was about to be lost, she didn¡¯t bother to make trouble for her.

    After Lu Qian¡¯s high fever subsided, he lay sleepily on the bed, refusing to eat or speak.

    Holding back the anger in her heart, Madam Ling begged her softly to take care of Lu Qian for a few days: ¡°¡­you are A Qian¡¯s cousin and his sister-in-law. Do you want to watch him give away this life? Hence I am begging you, to take care of him for a few days and coax him for a while, and when he recovers, you can do whatever you want to avoid suspicion and stay away from him.¡±

    Although she was reluctant, she couldn¡¯t stand Madam Ling crying pleading, and reluctantly agreed.

    With her taking care of her, Lu Qian¡¯s condition really improved rapidly. Drank medicine and ate obediently, and soon healed up. But she also got into this trouble, and the servants in the mansion began to spread rumors. Madam Ling looked at her more and more unkindly.

    Soon came the good news that Lu Hong won the first prize in the exam. She was ecstatic, looking forward to Lu Hong¡¯s return as soon as possible, and taking her and her son away from Lu¡¯s mansion.

    It¡¯s a pity that what she waited for was the bad news that Lu Hong didn¡¯t want to continue the marriage.

    She was sad and desperate, and she shed tears in the house. Lu Qian actually rushed to her room during the day and said desperately in front of the servant girls: ¡°Brother is treacherous, don¡¯t embrace him, he doesn¡¯t want you, I¡¯ll marry you!¡±

    Madam Ling came quickly and ordered Lu Qian to be tied up with a livid face.

    Before leaving, Madam Ling gave her a hard look. Resentful and vicious like a poisonous snake, it made people shudder.

    ¡­¡­

    The distant memories that have been dusty in her heart come flooding back.

    Lu Qian¡¯s fair and delicate face full of smiles quietly coincided with the desperate and paranoid young man in his memory.

    Ling Jingshu felt an unspeakable feeling in her heart. If it wasn¡¯t for Lu Qian, Madam Ling wouldn¡¯t have used such vicious and insidious means to harm her, and she wouldn¡¯t have ended up like that¡­

    But during the painful years of being under house arrest in Lu¡¯s house, only Lu Qian dared to visit her. When she couldn¡¯t bear the humiliation and wanted to escape back to her mother¡¯s house, it was Lu Qian who secretly helped her escape from Lu¡¯s residence.

    In the final analysis, Lu Qian was just a stubborn young man who couldn¡¯t help but love her. She hated the Lu family, but she didn¡¯t have much hatred for Lu Qian¡­ just not the slightest liking for him.

    Ling Jingshu, who was in a mess of thoughts, looked a little dazed.

    Lu Qian has been paying close attention to the changes in Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression, and naturally, he didn¡¯t miss the moment of suddenness, and there was a sharp pain in his heart. But he couldn¡¯t show anything, and he had to work hard to squeeze out a cheerful smile: ¡°Cousin Shu, only the Luoyang brocade bloomed in the garden. I didn¡¯t have time to appreciate it when I came to the garden last time. Today is just a good time to watch it carefully. I hope Cousin Shu, you will not hide your secrets, give me some pointers.¡±

    He stretched out his hand without hitting the smiling face. Ling Jingshu hesitated for a moment, then nodded.

    Lu Qian¡¯s eyes lit up, and his right hand tucked into his sleeve trembled with excitement. Fortunately, it was well concealed and no one noticed.

    Lu Hong saw this scene with his eyes, and his heart became more and more uncomfortable.

    Needless to say, Ling Jingshu¡¯s gentle care for Ling Xiao can be considered indifferent and polite to Lu Qian. Only when facing him, her eyebrows were cold, and her eyes were full of disgust and contempt.

    Lu Hong is also born with a stubborn temper. The more Ling Jingshu was like this, the stronger his desire to get close to her became.

    It¡¯s obviously not a good way to get cheeky in front of her.

    Lu Hong thought deeply and soon an idea hit him. Deliberately walked faster, stood side by side with Ling Xiao, and chatted with Ling Xiao affectionately: ¡°Cousin Xiao, yesterday I saw you also went to the Ling family¡¯s home school to listen in, do you understand the scriptures explained by the master?¡±

    Ling Xiao shook his head a little ashamedly: ¡°I only understand a small part of it, and most of it I don¡¯t understand.

    ¡± Reading books to figure out the meaning of the scriptures by yourself is naturally not as good as the master¡¯s careful teaching. If you don¡¯t dislike my clumsy speech, I will carefully explain to you the scriptures that the master said yesterday. ¡±

    Being so friendly and enthusiastic made Ling Xiao¡¯s heart warm, and his beautiful face glowed with joy: ¡°This is so embarrassing, it¡¯s too much trouble for Cousin Hong. ¡±

    Lu Hong smiled slightly: ¡°A few trivial things are nothing to worry about. Cousin Xiao is so polite, it seems strange.¡±

    After a pause, he laughed again: ¡°This time, I will be a guest at Ling¡¯s mansion with my mother and second brother, and I will stay for a few months. I am two years older than you, and I have worked hard in reading. I passed the government examination last year, and now I have the reputation of a scholar. I still have some experience in the Four Books and Five Classics. If you don¡¯t understand anything about the Four Books and Five Classics, you may as well discuss it with me. Maybe it will be of some benefit to you. ¡±

    Ling Xiao was quite pleasantly surprised. However, he didn¡¯t respond immediately, but gently tugged Ling Jingshu¡¯s sleeve: ¡°Ah Shu, it¡¯s not good to trouble Cousin Hong like this. ¡±

    Lu Hong¡¯s thoughts couldn¡¯t be hidden from Ling Jingshu at all.

    Ling Jingshu was about to refuse without thinking, but when she saw the excitement and expectation on Ling Xiao¡¯s face, her heart suddenly softened.

    Ling Xiao stayed in the inner house every day, he had no playmates of the same age. He has always been lonely and alone. Ling Xiao was so happy for Lu Hong¡¯s proactive gestures¡­

    Forget it. As long as Ling Xiao was happy.

    Although Lu Hong is a perfidious villain, he had real talents. He was willing to give advice sincerely, which was also a good thing for Ling Xiao.

    Ling Jingshu smiled at Ling Xiao: ¡°It¡¯s really troublesome for Cousin Lu. However, since Cousin Lu opened his mouth on his own initiative, he is sincere in his thoughts. You should learn from him! ¡±

    As soon as these words came out, Ling Xiao and Lu Hong¡¯s eyes lit up.

    Lu Hong¡¯s overjoyed look fell into Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes, which was particularly glaring.

    Ling Jingshu secretly sneered.

    Lu Hong intends to curry favor with Ling Xiao, but his purpose was nothing more than to take the opportunity to get close to her. It¡¯s a pity that her heart was already as cold as iron. Even though Lu Hong had all kinds of means, it was all in vain.

    ¡­¡­

    Everyone has their own thoughts, so viewing flowers became redundant.

    Lu Qian talked a lot today, and he kept talking to Ling Jingshu endlessly: ¡°Cousin Shu, which two kinds of peonies are used to graft this Luoyang Brocade? How long does it last? Besides these two colors of flowers, are there other kinds of peonies that can be produced in other colors?¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu, I have nothing to do every day, I will accompany you to the peony garden to take care of these peonies!¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu, besides planting flowers, what other pastimes do you like to do? Playing the piano Painting, or embroidery?¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu¡­¡±

    Like a fly, buzzing incessantly around her ears.

    Even if Ling Jingshu had the best patience, it was almost worn out. She said in a bad manner: ¡°You need to be calm when appreciating the flowers. If you are so noisy, how can you enjoy the flowers?

    ¡± ¡°Yes, yes, yes, I will listen to you, and I will stop talking from now on.¡±

    After holding back for a while, he opened his mouth again: ¡°Cousin Shu, can you teach me how to grow peonies?¡±

    Ling Jingshu: ¡°¡­ ¡±

    Still haunting people like in the previous life, putting on a cold face as if he didn¡¯t see it, and not paying attention to her sarcastic remarks, like a hot dog skin plaster, which gave people headaches.

    Lu Hong has been patiently explaining the scriptures to Ling Xiao, occasionally raising his head to see Ling Jingshu¡¯s helplessness and Lu Qian¡¯s joy in his eyes. There was some unspeakable sourness in his heart.

    When he realized that the sourness came from Lu Qian, he couldn¡¯t help but secretly laugh at himself.

    Lu Qian was still a child, so he didn¡¯t know about the affair between the man and woman at all. It¡¯s ridiculous for him to be jealous of Lu Qian.

    Looking at Ling Jingshu¡¯s beautiful and breath-taking profile, Lu Hong¡¯s heart was full of strange and surging emotions, the sweetness was mixed with hesitation, and the sourness contained infinite joy.

    Is this what it feels like to love someone?

    A heart seems to be floating in the clouds, eager to see her, moved by her every frown and smile, and sad by her indifference and disgust.

    Lu Hong suddenly lost his mind.

    Ling Xiao waited for a long time, but he didn¡¯t hear him continue, so he couldn¡¯t help urging: ¡°Cousin Hong, why did you stop talking halfway?¡±

    Lu Hong finally recovered, and coughed guiltyly: ¡± It¡¯s nothing, I was just thinking about how to say it in a simple and easy-to-understand way¡­¡±

    A young man hurried over and reported to Lu Hong and Lu Qian: ¡°Eldest and Second young master, the master¡¯s boat have already arrived at the pier. Madam told the two young masters to take a carriage to the pier to pick up the master now.¡±

 Chapter 14

    Father had already arrived in Dingzhou?

    Lu Hong stretched his brows, nodded with a smile, and looked at Ling Jingshu naturally: ¡°Cousin Shu, Ah Qian and I are going to pick up our father at the pier. We can only come to enjoy the flowers on another day.¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s reaction was a bit strange. The pale pretty face was almost bloodless, and the thin smile on the corners of her lips faded away. Her pupils contracted slightly, and then calmed down quickly: ¡°Brother Lu, please do yourself.¡±

    The originally gentle voice was instantly like winter ice and snow.

    Lu Hong was secretly surprised but didn¡¯t think much about it.

    Lu Qian¡¯s whole body trembled, and he glanced at Ling Jingshu with extremely complicated eyes, as if he wanted to say something, his lips moved, but finally, he didn¡¯t open his mouth. He lowered his head and left with Lu Hong.

    After the Lu Hong brothers left, Ling Jingshu stood there for a long time.

    It was so long that Bai Yu and Ling Xiao noticed something was wrong.

    Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see it and didn¡¯t know that Ling Jingshu¡¯s pretty face was as pale as snow at this time, and her expression was stiff. But Bai Yu saw her face, and her heart sank, and with concern and anxiety on her face, she asked: ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong with you? Weren¡¯t you fine just now?¡±

    Ling Jingshu took a deep breath: ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine.¡± Repeated again: ¡°I¡¯m really fine.¡± She has been reborn in her girlhood. The humiliation suffered was forever in the past. She doesn¡¯t have to be afraid, she will never let herself fall into the situation of her previous life again¡­

    Ling Jingshu repeated in her heart several times, and her trembling hands finally subsided.

    With this appearance, it was clear that something was wrong, and it was clearly something serious.

    But Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t want to go into details, and Bai Yu and Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t force her, so they had no choice but to stay by her side.

    ¡­¡­

    The sound of footsteps from far broke the silence.

    Ling Xiao had the most sensitive ears, frowned, and asked loudly, ¡°Who is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± A familiar girl¡¯s voice sounded, and it was Ling Jingxian who came. She was in a hurry, and the usual sweet smile disappeared from her face. When she came closer, there was even a gloomy expression between her brows.

    Looks like she was here to find fault.

    Ling Jingshu was full of thoughts, and her reaction was unavoidably slow: ¡°Cousin Xian, what are you doing here?¡±

    Ling Jingxian pulled the corners of her lips, sneered, and her voice was sharp and mean: ¡°This is the peony garden of the Ling family. Why can¡¯t I come?¡±

    After finishing speaking, she looked around and questioned with displeasure: ¡°Where is Cousin Hong? Didn¡¯t he come to Peony Garden with you? Why is he gone now?¡±

    Hearing that Lu Hong and Ling Jingshu came to Peony Garden together, Ling Jingxian was filled with jealousy and hatred, so she quickly came to find her.

    Ling Jingshu was in a very bad mood, full of anger and grievances, and there was nowhere to vent those emotions. Ling Jingxian rushed to the door, of course, she would not be polite: ¡°The legs are on his body, he can come and go when he wants, and no one can do anything about it.¡±

    ¡°Never mind. Cousin Xian wants to see him, so she should have informed him earlier, or asked someone to stop him and let him wait for you here.¡±

    Ling Jingxian: ¡°¡­¡±

    Ling Jingxian was furious, and her pretty face turned red, with anger flashing in her eyes, she gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Ling Jingshu! You promised me that day¡­¡± Out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of Ling Xiao¡¯s figure, swallowed the next words abruptly, and said instead: ¡°What you promised me, you will not forget it!¡±

    Ling Jingshu raised her eyebrows coldly: ¡°I never promised anything.¡±

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s expression changed suddenly. Just about to say something, Ling Jingshu¡¯s cold voice sounded again: ¡°I am not interested in what you want at all. What you want to do has nothing to do with me. If you mention a word to me again, don¡¯t blame me for turning my face.¡±

    The tone was very impolite.

    Listening to these words, Ling Jingxian¡¯s angry face quickly receded, and she even showed a flattering smile: ¡°My good sister, I just said the wrong thing in a moment of impatience, and I¡¯m here to accompany you as a sister. Can you not take it to your heart?¡±

    Ling Xiao listened in a daze, and couldn¡¯t help interjecting, ¡°Cousin Xian, what are you and A Shu talking about? Why didn¡¯t I understand a single word?¡±

    Ling Jingshu opened her mouth to answer, but Ling Jingxian rushed to answer: ¡°It¡¯s a little secret between us sisters, so don¡¯t ask about it.¡±

    Ling Xiao had an honest and kind personality, and after Ling Jingxian said this, he really stopped asking.

    Ling Jingxian rolled her eyes, couldn¡¯t help it, and opened her mouth to ask again; ¡°Cousin Xiao, Cousin Hong came to the Peony Garden with you just now, why is he missing now?¡±

    Ling Jingshu seemed to be a different person recently, indifferent temperamentally and with sharp words, she was really not easy to provoke. So Ling Xiao looked easy to talk to.

    ¡°A servant came to report just now, saying that uncle has arrived at the pier, and Cousin Hong and Cousin Qian have gone to pick him up.¡± Ling Xiao said quickly.

    It turned out that uncle came.

    Ling Jingxian frowned and said with a smile: ¡°My aunt has been talking about it all day, and my uncle finally came. Speaking of which, Uncle and his family(1) should be here soon! Grandma¡¯s birthday is coming soon, if he doesn¡¯t come back, he won¡¯t be able to make it in time. ¡±

    As soon as the words fell, a servant girl came to report with a happy face: ¡°The old lady ordered the servants to deliver the message to the young masters and ladies. The old man and his family have also arrived at the pier. Now they are loading the luggage and getting on the carriage. They are coming to the mansion together. Requesting the young master and ladies to go to the Yonghe Hall together.¡±

    ¡°Talk about Cao Cao and Cao Cao will be there.¡± Ling Jingxian laughed, and then took Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand affectionately: ¡°It¡¯s more lively if we go together. Uncle and the others are also returning after five or six years. Look at it, I will have to cry like my aunt came back later.¡±

    She thought the words were humorous, and she giggled coquettishly after she finished speaking.

    Ling Jingshu glanced at her expressionlessly.

    Ling Jingxian was smiling happily at first, but being looked at with such a blank face, she gradually smiled a little embarrassingly: ¡°If you don¡¯t want to go there, then I¡¯ll take a step first.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t help but mutter to herself. The uncle¡¯s family was coming back, and the uncle who they had never met before was also coming. It was a great happy event for the whole family to reunite. Why was there no joy on Ling Jingshu¡¯s face?

    Although Bai Yu didn¡¯t understand the reason, she recalled Ling Jingshu¡¯s deliberate avoidance when Ling Shi and others came back. So she said to Ling Jingshu in a low voice: ¡°If Miss doesn¡¯t want to show up, I will report to Yonghe Hall and say that Miss is unwell. ¡­..¡±

    ¡°No need!¡±

    Ling Jingshu took a deep breath and interrupted Bai Yu: ¡°I¡¯ll go there with cousin Xian.¡±

    You can hide for a while, but you can¡¯t hide for a lifetime.

    What should come will always come, and what should be faced must be faced. She had to straighten her chest and face the nightmare of her previous life.

    ¡­

    Along the way, Ling Jingxian tactfully kept her mouth shut.

    Ever since Ling Jingshu woke up from a high fever, her temperament, words and deeds have changed a lot. When Ling Jingshu was concentrating on her pretty face, it actually exuded an air of coldness and chill.

    To put it bluntly, Ling Jingxian was a stern paper tiger, who usually showed her teeth and claws, but when she met Ling Jingshu with a stern face, she immediately shied away¡­

    After arriving at Yonghe Hall, Ling Jingshu restrained herself almost immediately The whole body relaxed. Smiling, she went forward to salute Old Lady Ling and others, and then quietly stood beside her stepmother, Madam Li.

    Ling Jingxian secretly cursed at herself. I must have been dazzled just now, thinking about so many things. Ling Jingshu clearly still looked gentle and docile!

    While chatting, everyone waited for Uncle Ling and Uncle Lu to return.

    ¡°Brother has worked in the Ministry of Industry for many years, and I heard that he is highly appreciated by the Secretary of the Ministry of Industry. Qiao Shilang of the Ministry of Industry is about to retire. The vacant seat will most likely belong to the eldest brother.¡±

    Fifth Master Ling met many people regularly. Most of them were officials, and they also knew a lot about the promotion of officialdom in the Great Zhou Dynasty. At this time, they talked with eloquence, which was quite convincing.

    Fourth Master Ling smiled and took over the conversation: ¡°Brother has been an official of the Ministry of Industry for so many years, and he should be promoted to a ministerial position.¡±

    The Secretary of the Ministry of Industry was a fourth-rank official position. If you can be promoted to the Minister of the Ministry of Industry, you will be in the third rank.

    If you considered the official position of the third rank, in the capital city where there were as many nobles as dogs and royal relatives, they were not considered high-ranking officials. However, if you considered the civil service, then this ranking can be regarded as the first. After another eight or ten years, maybe he can go one step further and become one of the six official ministers.

    When mentioning her eldest son, Old Lady Ling was full of pride and joy, with a smile on her face: ¡°Of course, it is best to be promoted. However, the most important thing is safety. At my age, I don¡¯t want anything else. I only look forward to my children and grandchildren. And pray that the whole house is safe.¡±

    The whole house is safe?

    Ling Jingshu twitched her lips sarcastically.

    The old lady Ling thought well, but it was a pity that the uncle was unwilling to be mediocre, and insisted on getting involved in the vortex of the struggle for the throne, causing himself a huge calamity, and was sent to the prison of the Ministry of Justice. In order to rescue him from the prison, the Ling family sold their properties and begged everywhere, and finally rescued him after they got help from the Lu family.

    After this incident, Uncle Ling lost his official position and was devastated. Most of Ling Jianuo¡¯s family business also disappeared, and the family started to gradually decline.

    It was also because of this that Lu An dared to put her under house arrest in the mansion without any regard for the face of the Ling family. After she had worked so hard to escape back to the Ling family, the old lady Ling refused to offend Lu An because of this, and cruelly tied her up and sent her back to the Lu family¡­

    In life, power and profit cannot be escaped. It was the innocent and poor she who paid the price.

    1. She is talking here about the oldest son of the family i.e. the eldest brother of her father.

 Chapter 15

    ¡°Reporting to the old lady, the old man¡¯s family and the son-in-law will be here soon.¡±

    After waiting for more than an hour, everyone finally received the good news, and they were all refreshed.

    The old lady Ling looked happy, and said in a loud voice: ¡°Quickly order someone to open the main door.¡±

    Ling¡¯s residence only opened the side door on weekdays. Today, Uncle Ling¡¯s family came back, and Uncle Lu came from afar, so naturally, the front door was opened to welcome guests.

    Surrounded by everyone, Old Lady Ling walked to the main entrance. Ling Jingshu slowed down intentionally or unintentionally and was at the end together with Ling Xiao.

    ¡°A Shu, you don¡¯t like such lively occasions, why don¡¯t we just sneak away first!¡± Ling Xiao whispered in Ling Jingshu¡¯s ear: ¡°Anyway, there are so many people here, without the two of us, it wouldn¡¯t be too eye-catching. No one will notice.¡±

    Ling Jingshu felt warm in her heart. Ling Xiao must have sensed that she was depressed, so he proposed to slip away halfway.

    Although no one will pay attention at this time, after that, a scolding was indispensable. More importantly, she didn¡¯t want to hide anymore.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a short while, bear with it and it will pass.¡± Ling Jingshu also lowered her voice: ¡°There are many people here, don¡¯t run around, just stay by my side.¡± Ling Xiao never refused Ling Jingshu¡¯s decision, and so obediently nodded.

    The two siblings were holding hands intimately, and they were very close, forming a small world of their own.

    Everyone was looking forward to the return of Uncle Ling¡¯s family and Uncle Lu, so no one paid any attention to the siblings at all ¨C even if they did, no one would find it strange.

    Since Yao¡¯s death and Li¡¯s marrying into the family, the brother and sister have a close relationship and depend on each other for life. Ling Jingshu cared for Ling Xiao in every possible way, and Ling Xiao also relied on Ling Jingshu wholeheartedly. On the contrary, he was not close to Fifth Master Ling, their father.

    Some sharp-eyed person shouted, ¡°Here they come!¡±

    Everyone became excited.

    ¡­

    Several carriages stopped at the gate of Ling Mansion.

    The first ones to come down were Uncle Ling¡¯s family.

    Forty-five-year-old Uncle Ling had a square face and a dignified appearance. He had a few wisps of beard and looked like a civil servant.

    The 40-year-old woman beside him was dressed in luxurious clothes, with exquisite makeup and outstanding temperament. She was the eldest aunt, Madam Sun. In addition, there was the eldest son Ling Ji with his wife and children. The bright and charming girl standing behind Madam Sun was Ling Jingyan, the eldest daughter of the first wife.

    ¡°My son is not filial. He hasn¡¯t come back to visit his mother for several years.¡± Uncle Ling strode up to Old Lady Ling and bowed down.

    The old lady¡¯s eyes were red immediately, and she stretched out her hand tremblingly to support Uncle Ling: ¡°You are an official in the capital, and you are busy with business all day long, so it¡¯s inconvenient to come back. How can I blame you¡­¡±

    Before saying a word it was over, Uncle Ling was already crying bitterly.

    He was an old man, but he still cried like a child in front of his old mother. The old lady Ling was happy and sad at the same time and cried with her eldest son in her arms.

    Crying was contagious. Fourth Master Ling and Fifth Master Ling¡¯s eyes were also red, and soon, everyone wiped away their tears.

    Ling Jingshu and Ling Xiao fell behind the crowd, lowered their heads and covered their faces with their sleeves casually, just pretending.

    After the excitement of Old Lady Ling and Uncle Ling calmed down a bit, another man¡¯s voice rang out: ¡°Mother-in-law and brother-in-law have been separated for several years. You must be very happy to meet again at this time. Why don¡¯t you enter the mansion and talk about it slowly?¡±

    This voice, with the thick and low voice typical of middle-aged men, penetrated Ling Jingshu¡¯s ears.

    Even though Ling Jingshu had been mentally prepared for a long time, when she heard this voice, her whole body trembled uncontrollably.

    She looked up.

    A familiar face came into view.

    A thirty-two-year-old man, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes, with a short beard, handsome and elegant, with an extraordinary bearing. He can be called a handsome man. Most of Lu Hong¡¯s good looks were inherited from him.

    This man was the head of the Lu family, Ling¡¯s husband, and her father-in-law in her previous life.

    Lu An!

    Trigger Warning! S**ual Assault

    ¡­

    She and Lu Hong were very close back then, and they were very affectionate after they got married. Within a year of their marriage, she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. Lu Hong won the first prize in the provincial examination again, and then went to the Capital to take the national examination, and won the first prize in one fell swoop.

    At that time, she felt that this life was happy and smooth, and she had no regrets.

    Unexpectedly, the nightmare of life really started from this moment.

    Lu Qian¡¯s strange feelings for her troubled her a lot. The sad news of Lu Hong turning away from their marriage made her even more shocked and sad. Because of Lu Qian, Madam Ling, who was originally kind, looked at her more and more gloomy, making things difficult everywhere. The servants in the mansion talked a lot, and the eyes they looked at her were gradually full of disdain, and they rumored in private that she was a woman who seduced her brother-in-law.

    Being splashed by this pot of dirty water made her speechless, and she cried in secret many times.

    She knew in her heart that these were all caused by Ling¡¯s secret tricks. It was obvious that Lu Qian was obsessed with her, so Ling deliberately distorted the facts for fear that these words would damage Lu Qian¡¯s reputation. Madam Ling had been in charge of the Lu family for many years and had many confidantes in the mansion. It was easy to manipulate rumors.

    She was struggling in the mansion, and her life became more and more difficult.

    Madam Ling arranged a good marriage for Lu Qian, and when Lu Qian found out, there was a big fuss. In front of everyone, he was clamoring to withdraw from the marriage, and kept saying that he wanted to marry her.

    Ling¡¯s face was completely lost, and the truth that was painstakingly concealed was completely exposed. In anger, she ordered someone to lock her up. Then she put medicine in the food that was delivered.

    When she woke up from the drowsiness, she was horrified to find that she was naked and assaulted, and the man lying next to her was actually her father-in-law Lu An.

    Lu An was greedy for flowers and lustful all day long, and had more than a dozen beautiful concubines, and there were many enchanting singers and dancers in the mansion. However, he managed to maintain his father-in-law¡¯s face in front of her, with a dignified appearance. But who would have thought that he would rape her while she was under the influence of an aphrodisiac¡­

    She had no face to live on and wanted to die.

    Ling smiled grimly and appeared in front of her with the child in her arms: ¡°Ling Jingshu, if you keep yourself safe, the child will live with you. If you commit suicide and die, I will let your son accompany you to the underworld.¡±

    Looking at the immature son, her face was full of tears, and she suppressed the thought of dying in humiliation.

    Ling looked at her, whose eyes were full of grief and resentment, and smiled coldly: ¡°Ling Jingshu, I didn¡¯t want to treat you like this. Anyway, you are my niece. I wanted you to marry into the Lu family to be my daughter-in-law. I was expecting you to be my helper. It¡¯s a pity that you are useless and could not tie Lu Hong¡¯s heart. He won the first prize in the examination and won the favor of the princess, so he has a better future.¡± ¡°

    Lu Hong refuses to want you, your sadness is inevitable. But you should never come to seduce my A Qian, his reputation and future cannot be ruined in your hands.¡±

    These words that confuse black and white were really ridiculous.

    .

    She retorted subconsciously: ¡°I didn¡¯t seduce Ah Qian, I never had any other thoughts about him from the beginning to the end, he was the one who pestered me¡­¡±

    ¡°Shut up! ¡±

    Ling scolded angrily, and her face became distorted because of anger: ¡°He is still a child who doesn¡¯t understand things, and he knows what envy is. If you didn¡¯t deliberately seduce him, he would never go astray. Withdrawing from the marriage, when such a scandal gets out, how can he talk about getting married in the future, and how to behave in an upright manner.¡±

    ¡°Now that you have an affair with your father-in-law, no matter how unwilling Ah Qian is, he will not dare to snatch a woman from his father. I will wait for his heart to settle down, and then I will talk to him about another marriage.¡±

    After speaking, Ling smiled triumphantly. In that laughter, there was an almost crazy pleasure.

    Hearing such words, she felt chills all over her body, and murmured to herself in disbelief: ¡°Just for this, you let people drug me and my father-in-law? You are really crazy!¡±

    Ling¡¯s laughter became more and more crazy and hysterical: ¡°You think it¡¯s just my idea? You think I drugged Lu An? Haha¡­ You are so naive and ridiculous.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know that since you married and came here, Lu An has been eyeing you with evil intentions. If it wasn¡¯t for Lu Hong, he would have attacked you long ago. This time, I suggested the idea, and I was the one who drugged you. As for him, it is a dream come true, so there¡¯s no need to prescribe medicine¡­¡±

    At that moment, the world spun, and her world collapsed in an instant.

    She was numb and cold all over.

    ¡°You will stay in this yard from now on. As long as you are safe and obedient, the child will be safe and sound. If you dare to make any changes, I will let the child accompany you to Huangquan!¡± After finishing speaking, Ling sneered and walked away.

    .

    The following days were tantamount to hell on earth for her.

    Lu An originally felt a little bit guilty, but he was fascinated by her beauty, coupled with that unexplainable new excitement, he was extremely obsessed with her. Soon all the beautiful and enchanting concubines were left out in the cold. Facing Ling, he became more tolerant.

    In the inner house, no one was an opponent of Ling¡¯s.

    She washed her face with tears all day long and thought of death countless times. But when she thought of her young son, her thoughts of suicide were severely cut off. She gritted her teeth and endured it.

    There is no impenetrable wall in the world. The story of Lu An taking his daughter-in-law by force first spread slowly inside the mansion, and gradually spread outside the mansion. However, in the mouths of everyone, this matter was not due to Lu An¡¯s flirtatiousness, but more importantly, because Lu Hong abandoned his wife and son, she stayed alone in her empty boudoir, unwilling to be lonely, and secretly seduced her father-in-law¡­

    Ling¡¯s hate for her went to the bone, not only ruining her chastity but also ruining her reputation.

    But she had nowhere to ask for help, there was no news of Lu Hong, and her natal family ignored her plight indifferently. The maids around her were all bribed by Ling¡¯s, and it was impossible to send a message.

    She endured humiliation and survived in the world, until the moment she was about to die, she woke up and regretted it.

    God took pity on her and gave her a new life. In this life, she wants to avenge her previous life and seek justice.

    T/N This was a hard chapter to translate. I felt so bad for our FL. What she endured was heartbreaking. And this is where she differs from Lu Mingyu from Phoenix Hairpin, from the same author. She faced betrayal but since she was strong, no one could assault her like Ling Jingshu. Ling Jingshu was too much a victim in her previous life and it justifies the way she took revenge after her reincarnation.

 Chapter 16

    The memories of those humiliating and painful events came one after another, and huge waves surged in her heart.

    Ling Jingshu glanced at Lu An from a distance, clenched her fists hard, and lowered her eyelids. She did her best to calm her disturbed mind.

    The enemy was close at hand, but she couldn¡¯t act rashly. This feeling was really uncomfortable.

    But no matter how uncomfortable it was, she had to hold back and endure it.

    To deal with Lu An and Madam Ling meant bringing down the entire Lu family. For her who was only a girl in a boudoir, this was obviously just a luxury. Before she had the ability to take revenge, she must first learn to be patient¡­

    After Lu An spoke, the old lady Ling and Uncle Ling who had been crying into a ball finally calmed down a lot.

    Old Madam Ling wiped the tears off her face with her sleeve, and smiled, ¡°Look at me, at this age, I don¡¯t have the slightest bit of self-control. Crying and wiping tears at the gate, I made my son-in-law laugh.¡± ¡±

    Lu An smiled slowly, his demeanor was excellent and impeccable: ¡°Mother-in-law and brother-in-law are separated. At this moment, I was so excited and tears filled my eyes when we met, and I couldn¡¯t help it. My son-in-law was moved when he saw it, how could he laugh.¡±

    Old Madam Ling was full of resentment towards her son-in-law because of what Madam Ling said before, but now that she really met him, the resentment in her heart disappeared a bit.

    Such a handsome, suave, and dignified man was also the head of the Lu family, acting as a parent official. There was not much difference between the Emperor and the Lu family in Zhangzhou. With such a successful career, it was inevitable to indulge in the affairs of the heart.

    The crowd surrounded Old Madam Ling and returned to the Yonghe Hall in a mighty manner, sitting down and talking.

    The juniors stood beside or behind their parents. Old Madam Ling sat at the top, Uncle Ling sat on her right, and Lu An sat on the left.

    Old Madam Ling first asked Lu An with concern if the itinerary was hard, and then it was Uncle Ling¡¯s turn.

    On such an occasion, the several daughters-in-law of the Ling family were not qualified to intervene, let alone the younger generation.

    After exchanging pleasantries for half an hour, Old Madam Ling¡¯s excitement finally calmed down. She smiled and said to Lu An: ¡°My son-in-law has not visited the door for so many years, only letters. You don¡¯t know the children and grandchildren of our Ling family. Let me introduce them to you one by one.¡±

    The son-in-law was always a distinguished guest. What¡¯s more, this son-in-law was from a famous family of the Great Zhou Dynasty. There were at least a dozen members of the Lu family who were officials in various places in the Great Zhou Dynasty. Lu An¡¯s second brother, Lu Ping, was the head of the Ministry of War in the Capital. Though the position was not high, he was good at currying favor with his superiors. There was no limit to how high he could climb. The scenery of the Lu family was really hot in the Capital. (1)

    Because of these factors, Old Madam Ling was more warm and polite to Lu An.

    First came the younger generation of Eldest Master Ling, then the Second and Fourth, and finally the four brothers and sisters of the Fifth.

    ¡°Nephew Ling Ting (Ling Xiao) (Ling Yu) has met my uncle.¡±

    ¡°Niece Ling Jingshu has met my uncle.¡±

    Among the three young boys of different heights, Ling Jingshu was dressed in a light green dress, with beautiful eyebrows that looked like a painting. Even if the eyebrows were converging, it couldn¡¯t hide her stunning radiance.

    Lu An¡¯s eyes paused for a moment on Ling Jingshu¡¯s body, and a trace of surprise and gleaming look flashed quickly in his eyes. (2)

    He concealed this emotion very well, returned to normal in an instant, and smiled gently and kindly: ¡°We are all a family, so there is no need to be polite.¡±

    Lu Qian was standing by Lu An¡¯s side, paying close attention to Lu An¡¯s every change of look. When he saw the strange flash in Lu An¡¯s eyes, he froze. His hands trembled uncontrollably.

    It wasn¡¯t until Ling Jingshu bowed and stepped back, and Lu An stopped looking at Ling Jingshu, that Lu Qian slowly exhaled the suffocation in his chest.

    ¡­

    The sky soon darkened.

    There were four seats in the dining room of Yonghe Hall. There were two seats each for men and women, and they are divided into elders and younger generations. They are all a family, and there was no need to worry about the difference between men and women, so they simply abandon the screen.

    The children and grandchildren gathered around their knees and gathered together happily. This was the first reunion since their daughter got married.

    Old Madam Ling was in high spirits and drank a few glasses of wine. When sons and daughters-in-law came to toast, she just touch her lips to the glass at most. When the son-in-law and daughter came to toast, Old Madam Ling drank them all.

    With a bit of drunkenness, Old Madam Ling said with ulterior motives: ¡°I only have a daughter like Ah Hui, who has been spoiled and ed on since she was a child, and has a strong desire to monopolize her loved ones. Even if I treat her brothers better, she will be jealous. Marrying into Lu¡¯s family these years, there must be some incompetence, please forgive her.¡±

    Lu An was so shrewd, how can he not hear the puns in old lady Ling¡¯s words, his smile was a little uncomfortable. Coughing slightly, he responded: ¡°Mother-in-law is worrying too much. Ah Hui has a dignified temperament and a sense of measure and keeps the inner house in order. I am fortunate to marry Ah Hui as my wife. It is my son-in-law¡¯s blessing.¡±

    He said affectionately He glanced at Madam Ling carefully.

    Ling¡¯s heart was filled with joy and anxiety.

    The happy thing was that Lu An hadn¡¯t been so affectionate to her for a long time, but it was the old lady Ling who spoke like this. Lu An knew what she said in front of the old lady Ling, and he must be unhappy. At this time, he was full of smiles, and after returning to the room after the banquet, she didn¡¯t know what he could look like¡­

    Old Madam Ling smiled: ¡°My son-in-law doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m nagging.¡± After a pause, she said: ¡± Ah Hui hasn¡¯t been back to her mother¡¯s house for so many years since she got married, so I want to keep her here for a long time now that she is back this time.¡±

    Lu An laughed and said, ¡°It¡¯s a matter of course.¡±

    After a few words of gossip, Lu An returned to his seat.

    ¡­¡­

    Ling Jingshu sat at a table with a group of cousins ??and sisters-in-law.

    The Great Zhou Dynasty ruled the world with the words of loyalty and filial piety. In the past two decades, the borders have been peaceful and there have been no wars. The noblest thing was to take the imperial examination to enter the official career. This trend has long become the core of famous families, and reading had become the top priority.

    This trend also spread to women. Hence any wealthy family will ask a female teacher to teach their daughters to read and write. Not to mention a big family like the Ling family.

    It was not uncommon for each of them to come out to show their talents.

    This kind of occasion was always the time when Ling Jingshu showed off. However, she was not in the mood today, she put down her chopsticks after taking a few bites hastily, and remained silent after that.

    Ling Jingxian was secretly surprised, but she wished that Ling Jingshu would keep silent so as not to steal her limelight.

    Ling Jingxian chatted enthusiastically with Ling Jingyan: ¡°Cousin Yan, we were born only one month apart. It¡¯s a pity that you lived in the capital with my uncle and aunt these years, and I didn¡¯t have the chance to get close to you. This time you come back, we finally have a chance to know each other.¡±

    Ling Jingyan was the daughter of the eldest son, ranked seventh. Because she had lived in the capital for a long time, she was quite arrogant and self-conscious. Hearing this, she smiled lightly and said, ¡°Father has taken a long vacation and plans to live in Dingzhou for two months before returning to the capital. There will indeed be many opportunities to get close in the future.¡±

    By mentioning Dingzhou she can¡¯t help showing a bit of arrogance that she thinks she was superior to others.

    Ling Jingxian touched a soft nail and felt a little unhappy.

    Hmph, what a big deal. Wasn¡¯t it because your father was an official in the capital that you have the opportunity to live in the capital? Otherwise, you should also live in the old house of the Ling family in Dingzhou.

    Ling Jingyan¡¯s appearance was bright and charming, and her clothes were exquisite and elegant. At first glance, it was the popular style in the capital. They were compared almost immediately.

    Ling Jingxian felt unwilling, turned her eyes, and said with a smile: ¡°Cousin Shu, why hasn¡¯t she said anything today?¡±

    Then she pretended to be enthusiastic and said to Ling Jingyan: ¡°Sister Yan, you rarely come back, there are some things you don¡¯t know. My cousin is well-versed in poetry and books, has outstanding talents, and is good at growing famous peonies. She is well-known in Dingzhou city. Someone named cousin Jingshu as the number one beauty in Dingzhou!¡±

    She was also a daughter of the Ling family¡¯s direct descendent, but Ling Jingshu was famous in Dingzhou. Ling Jingyan was unknown in Dingzhou. With Ling Jingyan¡¯s arrogance, she would definitely feel unconvinced after hearing these words.

    Sure enough, after hearing such ulterior provocations, Ling Jingyan suddenly became upset. Looking at Ling Jingshu¡¯s beautiful face, she said with a half-smile, ¡°Oh? I didn¡¯t expect Sister Shu to be good at planting peonies.¡±

    Just this little word, but it smelled like gunpowder.

    Ling Jingshu finally looked up at Ling Jingyan.

    Speaking of which, Ling Jingyan was also a tragic figure.

    In her previous life, Ling Jingyan met King Yan by chance, and she secretly fell in love with him. With the family background of the Ling family, she was not qualified to marry King Yan to be the main wife, but it was barely enough to be the side concubine. But Uncle Ling insisted on orthodoxy and supported the prince¡¯s faction, so naturally, he would not let his daughter marry King Yan as a side concubine. He rushed to arrange another marriage for Ling Jingyan.

    Ling Jingyan was reluctant, but her arms couldn¡¯t twist her thighs, so she had to obey her father¡¯s order.

    Later, the prince¡¯s party lost, the Crown Prince was abolished, and King Yan was established as the heir. Prince Yu was abolished, and Uncle Ling was the first to bear the brunt and was sent to prison for corruption. The Ling family worked hard and spent most of their wealth to save Uncle Ling¡¯s life.

    Ling Jingyan¡¯s originally planned marriage also came to nought because of this prison disaster.

    Later, Ling Jingyan returned to Dingzhou with her parents. Because she was getting old, the situation at home was bleak, so she could not find any good families to marry. A matchmaker came to the door to propose marriage. The other party was over thirty years old, and there were a lot of concubines in the family, as well as legitimate sons and concubine-born children.

    After Ling Jingyan got married, her life was not going well. Later, she died of dystocia while giving birth.

    Thinking of this, Ling Jingshu was a little sorrowful, and she was not in the mood to compete with Ling Jingyan anymore. She said lightly: ¡°I have nothing to do when I¡¯m free, and I occasionally pass the time in the garden. Outsiders don¡¯t know the inside story, so they just pass on rumors.¡±

 Chapter 17

    Ling Jingyan raised her eyebrows and said with a proud smile: ¡°Luoyang peonies are famous all over the world. I have lived in the capital these years and have attended many flower-viewing feasts. I have also seen a lot of famous peonies, and I have learned a lot from the gardeners in the house. The art of planting peonies has produced a few pots of rare varieties. Since cousin Shu is also proficient in this skill, it is imperative to ask for advice in the future.¡±

    She said asking for advice, but her face was swaying with a higher expression.

    Ling Jingshu wanted to refuse at first, but on second thought, she planned to go to the capital with her uncle¡¯s family, and she would inevitably have to deal with Ling Jingyan in the future.

    ¡°Since Cousin Yan is so elegant, it is inconvenient for me to refuse, so I can only accompany you with a brazen face.¡± Ling Jingshu smiled slightly: ¡°I also ask Cousin Yan to give me some advice.¡±

    She kept her attitude low, and the tone of her voice was full of goodwill. It was very pleasant to hear.

    Ling Jingyan felt much better, and Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t feel so uncomfortable anymore: ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll look for you tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Cousin Yan came back from a long way, she is a distinguished guest, there is no reason for you to come here. I will go tomorrow to find you!¡± Ling Jingshu said with a smile.

    Ling Jingyan nodded happily.

    Ling Jingxian who witnessed this scene: ¡°¡­¡±

    She deliberately instigated, hoping that Ling Jingshu would hit Ling Jingyan in the face, vent her sulking for her, and there would be drama to watch. How did it become like this?

    ¡­

    Everyone was tired from the long journey. After the banquet was over, they went back to their rooms to rest.

    Madam Ling used to live in Yonghe Hall, but once Lu An came, it would be inappropriate to live in Yonghe Hall again. Let the servants move all the luggage to the guest room. Fortunately, the house was clean and the bedding was brand new, ready for occupancy at any time.

    Lu An sat on the chair, Lu Hong and Lu Qian stood side by side, standing in front of Lu An.

    Lu An¡¯s face was serious, and he opened his mouth to ask: ¡°Ah Hong, Ah Qian, are you still used to living in Ling¡¯s house these days?¡±

    Lu Hong was more in awe of this side of his father than being close to him and replied respectfully: ¡°As far as father is concerned, everyone in the Ling family is kind and harmonious, and they take care of everything in terms of clothing, food, and daily life. The son is living without any problem.¡±

    Lu An hummed, and then looked at Lu Qian.

    Facing the young and frail young son, Lu An¡¯s expression softened a bit: ¡°Ah Qian, this is the first time you have returned to your grandfather¡¯s house after you have grown up so much. Are they treating you well?¡±

    Lu Qian hung his head and replied: ¡°Grandmother is very kind, my uncles and aunts take very good care of me, and my cousin brothers and sisters ??are also very kind to me.¡± ¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t just play around and ruin your studies.¡±

    ¡°I read the book every day and I didn¡¯t relax. I also ask my father to rest assured.¡±

    The answer was quite satisfactory, and there was nothing to be picky about.

    Lu An frowned.

    Lu Hong was the eldest son, he had always been strict with Lu Hong, and it was inevitable for Lu Hong to follow the rules and tremble in front of him. But Lu Qian had a lively and arrogant personality, and he was good at flattering and being obedient. He had never behaved so well in front of him. Such a serious answer made the father and son feel unfamiliar¡­

    Seeing Lu An¡¯s expression was a little unhappy, Lu Hong was also secretly surprised and subconsciously glanced at Lu Qian.

    Lu Qian still hung his head, so he was unable to see his expression clearly. But it was very different from the usual performance.

    Lu An waited for a while, and seeing that Lu Qian was still half-dead, he felt a little annoyed, his face darkened immediately, and his voice revealed a bit of displeasure: ¡°Forget it, I¡¯m tired today, you two go back to the room first. Rest. If you have anything to say, we can talk about it tomorrow.¡±

    The two brothers Lu Hong and Lu Qian retreated together. After leaving the main hall, he was sure that his father would never hear their conversation, so Lu Hong opened his mouth and asked in a low voice: ¡°Second brother, what happened to you today? Why are you refusing to talk to father when he is talking to you?¡±

    Qian was used to being coquettish and obedient and made their father happy by coaxing him.

    It was already dark, and the wind lanterns hanging under the corridor were shining with a dim and uncertain light.

    Lu Qian¡¯s delicate face also seemed to melt into the darkness, his expression was vague and indifferent: ¡°Didn¡¯t I answer every question my father asked?¡±

    Lu Hong was choked speechless, and his handsome brows frowned slightly. Under the dim light, he looked even more handsome and beautiful.

    Lu Qian looked at his elder brother who was tall, handsome and unparalleled and felt as if something was blocking him. He became more and more depressed, and said: ¡°I¡¯m sleepy, let¡¯s go back to sleep first.¡±

    Then he turned and left.

    Lu Hong: ¡°¡­¡±

    This Lu Qian, since he recovered from his illness on the ship that day, has behaved strangely. (1) Occasionally, he would quarrel with him with a cold face. This was a happy time, and he became angry with their father for no reason.

    Probably because as he got older, he didn¡¯t want to be treated like a child anymore, and his temper grew accordingly.

    Lu Hong thought for a while, shook his head with a smile, and went back to the room to rest without mentioning it.

    When Madam Ling came in, seeing Lu An¡¯s gloomy face, her heart skipped a beat. Thinking that Lu An was still unhappy about what Old Madam Ling said just now, she said in a low voice with a smile on her face: ¡°The things my mother said today are definitely not aimed at the master. Master, please don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±

    It was okay as long as Madam Ling didn¡¯t mention it, but as soon as she mentioned the situation just now, Lu An¡¯s suppressed anger welled up in his heart, and he looked at Ling sarcastically: ¡°If you didn¡¯t chatter in front of my mother-in-law, how would my mother-in-law know that you were wronged at Lu¡¯s house?¡±

    A trace of panic flashed in Ling¡¯s eyes, and her tone became softer: ¡°The master has always treated this concubine very well. I am in charge of the inner house, and I am well-clothed and well-fed on weekdays. There is no grievance. What my mother said was just out of pity for her daughter. There is no other meaning. Please don¡¯t worry too much, master.¡±

    She stretched out her hand, and it was hard to hit a smiling face.

    Lu An snorted softly at Ling¡¯s flattery and laughter, and didn¡¯t say anything else.

    Ling suppressed the grievances in her heart, and then softly talked about Lu Hong¡¯s matter: ¡°¡­the concubine led Ah Hong and Ah Qian to live in the mansion for a few days, and both of them are very comfortable in the Ling house. Especially Ah Hong, who gets along very well with his cousin brothers ??and sisters from the Ling family.¡±

    When she mentioned the word sister, she paused intentionally or unintentionally.

    How perceptive Lu An was, he immediately understood what she meant, and looked up: ¡°You mean, Ah Hong fell in love with the granddaughter of the Ling family?¡±

    A beautiful girl¡¯s face quickly flashed in his mind.

    ¡°Is it Ling Jingshu?¡± Lu An was clearly asking, but his tone was very certain.

    Even he, who hangs around beauties all over the world, was amazed at the first sight, let alone a young boy who was in his youth.

    ¡°The master is really aware of the details, the concubine is talking about sister Shu.¡±

    Seeing that Lu An was interested in this topic, Madam Ling secretly breathed a sigh of relief, and hurriedly took up the conversation with a smile: ¡°I can¡¯t definitely say that Ah Hong is in love with Sister Shu. However, Ah Hong is always careful about her. Today, he took the initiative to follow Sister Shu to the garden. Speaking of which, Ah Hong is also sixteen this year. It is time to think about his life-long affairs.¡±

    Lu An¡¯s expression remained unchanged, and he did not comment.

    However, Madam Ling understood his temper very well. If he disapproved, his face would have been sullen. At this moment, he still listened to her patiently, obviously his mind was also moved.

    Lu Hong was the son of his original spouse, he was extremely talented and intelligent, and had earned the reputation of a scholar at a young age. The future was limitless. Lu An seemed to favor the youngest son Lu Qian, but the eldest son was the most important thing in his heart.

    Madam Ling had been in the family for so many years and had been trying her best to win Lu Hong over. It¡¯s just that the effect was not significant. Lu Hong treated Lu Qian kindly, but his treatment of her as a stepmother was lukewarm. If this marriage can be facilitated, and Lu Hong marries her niece, he will naturally get closer to her in the future.

    When Ling Jingshu becomes a daughter-in-law, she would also be in the same space as her aunt who know was her mother-in-law.

    The more Ling thought about it, the more she felt that this was a good idea, and she continued: ¡°I didn¡¯t mention this matter to Ah Hong, but I just thought about it secretly. This time, for my mother¡¯s birthday, the master will also stay at Ling¡¯s house for a while, so why not pay more attention to sister Shu. If you think this marriage is feasible, I will mention it to my mother again.¡±

    Lu An pondered for a while, and said slowly: ¡°Ah Hong is the eldest son of our Lu family, and the role of the patriarch in the future will be his. His wife will also be the clan wife of our Lu family in the future. We must choose a wife who is dignified, gentle and with a virtuous temperament. Sister Shu is indeed born with great beauty, but I don¡¯t know what her temperament is. For the time being, don¡¯t be in a hurry to make a marriage. These days, you should pay more attention to sister Shu in private.¡±

    After a pause, he continued: ¡°If there is a chance, I will personally take a look at her character and knowledge.¡±

    That is to say, preliminary approval of the marriage was made.

    Ling¡¯s spirit perked up, and she hurriedly responded with a smile.

    ¡­

    Ling carefully waited on Lu An to wash up and go to bed.

    Lu An was exhausted from traveling all the way. He should have had an early rest, but for some reason today, he was particularly excited. After tossing Madam Ling twice, he calmed down.

    Ling¡¯s whole body was limp and lazy, and she snuggled up to Lu An¡¯s side with great contentment.

    It had been a long time since such intimacy.

    Ever since Lu An brought the slender and charming Aunt Liu into the mansion, Aunt Liu has become Lu An¡¯s new favorite. In the past year, Lu An spent most of his days resting in Aunt Liu¡¯s house. He came to the main room for a few days, and that too to see her son, but he didn¡¯t stay in her room overnight.

    Although she, the wife who had fallen out of favor, was still in charge of the inner house, her prestige was not as good as before.

    She was full of bitterness in her heart, and she only showed a little of it in front of Old Madam Ling.

    Unexpectedly, this time when she went back to her mother¡¯s house, she encountered such an opportunity. She must seize this good opportunity and try her best to facilitate this marriage.

    It was not enough for a woman to have both talent and virtue, the most important thing was to have a beautiful face.

    Isn¡¯t Lu Hong already fascinated by Ling Jingshu¡¯s beauty?

    Madam Ling, who was full of imagination, didn¡¯t know that her husband with his eyes closed beside her pillow was also thinking about the same person.

    1. What is the author hinting at!!!

 Chapter 18

    ¡°From the very first meeting, I fell in love with you¡­¡±

    A blurred man¡¯s face got closer and closer, with eager desire and twisted pleasure in his eyes, and he mercilessly crushed her under his body: ¡°Now, you are finally mine¡­¡±

    No! Get out of here!

    No matter how greedy and lustful you are, you shouldn¡¯t take your daughter-in-law by force. How is it different from a beast if you do this!

    When Lu Hong comes back, how will you face him as his father?

    ¡°Are you still thinking about Ah Hong? Stop wishful thinking. He is already living in the Princess¡¯ mansion and is together with the princess. As soon as King Yan came to the throne, he will be the brother-in-law of the Emperor. He just forgot about you¡­¡±

    No! He will not.

    He once made an oath that he would marry her and grow old together and that he would never lose each other in this life! He must have something to hide. He would not leave their mother and child behind¡­

    In the darkness, she struggled and cried helplessly.

    However, no one came to rescue her.

    The man who was pressing her down did whatever he wanted, bringing her endless humiliation and pain¡­(1)

    Ling Jingshu suddenly opened her eyes and sat up straight, her heart was beating like a drum, and her palms were covered with slippery cold sweat. After taking a few sharp breaths, the heaving chest slowly calmed down.

    Her face felt cold. At some point, her face was covered with tears.

    After her rebirth, she kept telling herself that everything in her previous life was in the past. She forced herself to suppress all hatred, and calmly faced Mrs Ling who was like a poisonous scorpion, Lu Qian who was obsessed but ended up killing her, and Lu Hong who ruthlessly abandoned his wife and children¡­ ..

    Until Lu An appeared, the real nightmare of her previous life came before her. Only then did she know that she couldn¡¯t forget the shameful past at all. ¡°Miss, why did you suddenly wake up?¡± Bai Yu, who was sleeping on the ground, was awakened by the slight movement, rubbed her eyes and got up, raised the gauze curtain and asked, ¡°Did you have a nightmare?¡±

    Wiping the sweat from her forehead, her voice was still calm: ¡°Well, I had a nightmare and I was awakened. Don¡¯t worry, I will be fine after a while by myself.¡±

    Bai Yu hesitated for a while before whispering: ¡°Miss if you don¡¯t mind, servant girl can sleep with you!¡± With someone to accompany her, she can sleep more peacefully in the second half of the night.

    Ling Jingshu hummed.

    Bai Yu quickly climbed onto the bed and slept next to Ling Jingshu.

    Accompanied by Bai Yu¡¯s warm body temperature, the icy chill all over her body quietly dissipated. Ling Jingshu leaned closer to Bai Yu and closed her eyes.

    Bai Yu had been feigning sleep with her eyes closed. After hearing Ling Jingshu¡¯s slight and gentle breathing, she was sure that Ling Jingshu had fallen asleep. Then she secretly breathed a sigh of relief, opened her eyes, and Ling Jingshu¡¯s sleeping face came into view.

    The young lady was also uneasy in her sleep, her brows slightly frowned.

    After the young lady woke up from her illness, she was very different from before. There were some things that she can hide from others, but she can¡¯t hide them from her, her personal servant girl.

    What was on your mind, Miss? Why are you so restless day and night?

    Bai Yu frowned and thought hard for a long time, but she couldn¡¯t figure it out, so she simply stopped thinking about it. Carefully put her head close to Ling Jingshu¡¯s, and fell asleep together.

    ¡­

    The next morning, when Bai Yu opened her eyes, Ling Jingshu had already woken up. After washing, she dressed neatly and sat in front of the vanity mirror to comb her hair.

    Bai Yu hurriedly got up and got out of bed, blaming herself endlessly: ¡°This slave girl slept so deeply that she didn¡¯t even know Miss got up. It¡¯s shameful, please punish me.¡±

    Ling Jingshu smiled slightly: ¡°I saw that you were sleeping soundly, so I didn¡¯t wake you up and let you sleep a little longer. There is nothing to punish for this. Alright, you go wash and dress and come back later. I¡¯ll comb my hair.¡±

    The expression was natural, the tone relaxed, no different from usual. Last night¡¯s nightmare was gone.

    Bai Yu took a look at Ling Jingshu before she felt relieved and responded with a smile.

    After tidying up, she ate breakfast as usual and then went to Yonghe Hall to greet Madam Ling. After yesterday¡¯s meeting, Ling Jingshu became much calmer when she saw Lu An again. After paying her respects, she stood beside Ling Jingyan and took the initiative to talk to Ling Jingyan.

    ¡°Sister Yan, the jade hairpin on your head is exquisite and beautiful. It must be the latest style in the capital! I¡¯ve never seen such a style in Dingzhou.¡±

    Just these two sentences, and there was a smile on Ling Jingyan¡¯s face, and she replied proudly: ¡°This is the jewelry from the Zhenqiao Workshop in the capital, and the style is the latest. Even the concubines and ladies in the palace will also customize jewelry from the Zhenqiao Workshop. Just this one jade hairpin cost eighty taels of silver.¡±

    To buy a ten-year-old maid was only forty taels of silver. The cost of one hosta was enough to buy two maids; which was really extravagant.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s face showed envy at the right time: ¡°I heard that Luoyang, the capital city, is prosperous and luxurious, but it¡¯s a pity that I didn¡¯t have the chance to see it. It¡¯s still lucky for Cousin Yan to live in the capital city with my uncle.¡±

    Listening to these words, Ling Jingyan was very happy in her heart. She smiled without restraint: ¡°Cousin Shu, don¡¯t underestimate yourself, maybe you will have the opportunity to live in the capital for a long time in the future.¡±

    Although she said so in her mouth, she didn¡¯t think so in her heart.

    Ling Wuye has not made any progress in the imperial examination for so many years, so he can only stay in the Ling family¡¯s old house. How could Ling Jingshu have the chance to go to the capital?

    Ling Jingshu saw all the subtle changes in Ling Jingyan¡¯s expression, and continued to smile calmly: ¡°I don¡¯t have such a blessing. By the way, didn¡¯t cousin Yan want to tell me how to plant peonies? If you are not doing anything today, how about going there today?¡±

    Originally, there was a sense of competition, but now it had become ¡°pointing¡± in Ling Jingshu¡¯s mouth.

    Ling Jingyan¡¯s vanity was greatly satisfied, seeing that Ling Jingshu suddenly became more pleasing to the eye, she smiled and nodded in agreement.

    ¡­

    Ling Jingyan was originally full of arrogance, but after Ling Jingshu walked around the garden, most of that arrogance dissipated immediately.

    Many famous peonies were planted in Ling¡¯s peony garden. It was the beginning of April, and the flowering period was approaching. The peony buds of various colors were hidden among the emerald green branches and leaves.

    Ling Jingyan had seen many famous peony gardens in the capital, and the Ling family¡¯s garden was no less impressive.

    When she saw the Luoyang Brocade in full bloom, Ling Jingyan was even more surprised, and subconsciously stopped in her tracks.

    Ling Jingshu did not take the opportunity to taunt and ridicule, but instead smiled affectionately: ¡°Cousin Yan, this complex-colored peony is commonly known as Er Qiao, and it is also called Luoyang brocade.¡±

    ¡°Cousin Shu, how did you grow this Luoyang brocade?¡± ?¡±

    Ling Jingyan stopped putting on airs, and asked curiously: ¡°The flowering period of peonies is in the middle and late April, and now it is the beginning of April. The Luoyang Brocade is already in full bloom. It must have bloomed in March!¡±

    Ling Jingshu smiled and said: ¡°There are indeed some tricks in it. Since Cousin Yan is interested, I will explain it to you in detail. First select the varieties that need to be grafted, and then choose to graft and plant them in August when the temperature is high¡­ . ¡±

    Without any secrets, she spoke out in detail the experience of cultivating peonies over the years.

    Ling Jingyan also had a lot of experience in planting peonies. After listening to it, it was natural to understand that Ling Jingshu was telling her everything she knew. A little moved in her heart, but also a little flattered: ¡°Cousin Shu, this is a unique secret art that you have been cultivating for a long time, you just tell me like this, I am really ashamed of it¡­¡±

    Ling Jingshu pursed her lips and smiled, shaking her hand. Holding Ling Jingyan¡¯s hand, she said: ¡°I really don¡¯t want to say these things when others ask me. But I don¡¯t mind at all when cousin Yan asks me, I just want to tell you everything. It seems that this is also the fate between our two sisters.¡±

    The bright and sincere smile casts off everything around it. The beauty was so clear and transparent, the beauty was so delicate and flawless, that one cannot even feel jealous.

    Ling Jingyan was taken aback for a moment, then held Ling Jingshu¡¯s hand with her backhand, and then laughed: ¡°Yeah, I also think the two of us are very much in love!¡±

    ¡­

    Ling Jingyan was a bit arrogant, and she thought she was superior to others . Other than that, there were no other eccentricities. Once you get used to it, it¡¯s not difficult to get along with her.

    Ling Jingshu deliberately made friends with Ling Jingyan, and when talking with her, she deliberately lowered her body, holding Ling Jingyan everywhere between the lines. In just a few days, the two became good sisters in the boudoir. They also started speaking with each other in a more familiar and casual way.

    ¡°Tomorrow is my grandmother¡¯s birthday. My second uncle finally come back in time.¡± Ling Jingyan smiled and said, ¡°If he didn¡¯t make it in time, it could have been hard to see his mother in the future.¡±

    Although Second Master Ling was only a seventh-rank county magistrate, he was also the parent official of a county. He had a lot of chores on weekdays, so he finally got away and came back so late. On the way, he was delayed for a few days because of illness and he didn¡¯t return home until yesterday.

    Ling Jingshu nodded with a smile, then sighed: ¡°Second Uncle brought his aunt and concubine back this time. The way Second Aunt forced a smile is really uncomfortable.¡±

    She didn¡¯t have much affection for the bitter and mean Yue Shi. But looking at Yue¡¯s forced smile yesterday, she couldn¡¯t help feeling a little sympathetic.

    Men can have three wives and four concubines, but women must abide by the three obediences and four virtues, and the world in the inner house was the whole world. Once the husband is unlucky, the woman has nothing to do but resent¡­

    In a trance, the painful memories of her previous life flashed in her mind again.

    Ling Jingshu put those annoying memories behind her, and calmly changed the topic: ¡°I won¡¯t talk about this anymore. Sister Yan, I have never been to the capital, tell me more about the capital, and let me also open my eyes!¡±

    Ling Jingyan was most happy with such a topic, and she could show off by the way, and immediately asked with a smile: ¡°I told you a lot of popular clothes and jewelry in the capital. What else do you want to hear?¡±

    Ling Jingshu She had been prepared for a long time, and immediately said: ¡°Cousin Yan, tell me about the famous doctors in Beijing!¡±

    1. T/N Felt really bad for our FL. She had a pathetic previous life.

    Hi, Happy New Year to all my friends who are reading this translation. Please leave a review and rating on Novelupdate to make me feel encouraged enough to do more this year!

 Chapter 19

    ¡°Speaking of famous doctors, there are countless famous doctors in the capital. Especially the Imperial hospital, which has gathered the best masters in the medical field from the Great Zhou Dynasty.¡±

    Ling Jingyan deliberately showed off and listed them one by one: ¡°The imperial doctor of Zhou is good at treating children¡¯s diseases. The princes and grandchildren born in the palaces, their diseases are all diagnosed and treated by the imperial physician of Zhou. The imperial physician Yu is good at treating women¡¯s diseases. When the concubines and ladies in the palace are sick and unwell, most of them are treated by imperial physician Yu. These two imperial physicians are well-known in the imperial hospital, and the idle people can¡¯t invite them. Only the royal family members of the Xungui Hou Mansion, as well as first-rank and second-rank civil servants, can invite them to come and treat illnesses. However, the medical skills of the two of them are nothing compared to the Imperial physician Wei.¡±

    Imperial physician Wei?

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s heart moved, and she couldn¡¯t wait to ask: ¡°What kind of disease is this Imperial Physician Wei good at treating?¡±

    Ling Jingyan smiled and said: ¡°The Imperial Physician Wei is best at treating difficult and miscellaneous diseases. There are many patients who have been diagnosed as having incurable diseases. but when they came to Imperial Physician Wei, they were cured. Just two months ago, there was a patient whose legs had been ill for many years and could not walk. With time, it will be back to normal.¡±

    There was such a genius doctor in the world!

    Ling Jingshu suppressed the excitement in her heart and asked curiously: ¡°This Imperial Physician Wei is an imperial physician in the imperial hospital. He should only treat people in the palace. Why does he often treat patients outside?

    ¡± There is a reason. You are not in the capital, so of course you don¡¯t know.¡± Ling Jingyan became excited and continued talking endlessly: ¡°Most of the imperial doctors in the imperial hospital are from prominent medical families, and they started studying medicine in their childhood. Some are from famous doctors¡¯ families in the states and counties of the Great Zhou Dynasty. Only Imperial physician Wei is an exception.¡±

    ¡°I heard that Imperial physician Wei lost his mother when he was young, and his father died of illness when he was three years old. He was so talented that he was accepted as a closed student (1) by a senior doctor, and started to study medicine at the age of six.¡±

    ¡°If this had continued, he was sure to become a famous doctor. However, the fate of the man is really unpredictable¡­.¡±

    Ling Jingyan deliberately paused for a moment when she said this.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s curiosity was aroused, and couldn¡¯t help asking: ¡°What happened later?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been talking for a long time, and I¡¯m thirsty.¡± Ling Jingyan coughed pretendingly.

    Ling Jingshu couldn¡¯t help but get up and pour a cup of tea for her: ¡°Cousin Yan¡¯s mouth is dry, drink this cup of tea before continuing.¡±

    ¡­

    Ling Jingyan was not thirsty, but she was pretending to be thirsty. Pretentiously, took a sip of tea, and then continued enthusiastically: ¡°When he was ten years old, his eldest sister was exactly sixteen years old. She was born with a beautiful face and was caught by a county king belonging to the royal clan. He wanted to grab her into the palace as a concubine. Miss Wei would rather die than follow and slammed her head against the gate, started bleeding profusely, and almost died on the spot.¡±

    ¡°Coincidentally, Concubine Xu, who hadn¡¯t been made a queen back then, happened to pass by the county palace, and she was unhappy when she heard about it. So she ordered someone to heal Miss Wei, and then severely reprimanded that county king.¡±

    ¡°It was also a blessing in disguise for Miss Wei, and after she recovered from her injury, she entered the palace and became a palace maid. Because of her natural beauty, she soon won the favor of the Emperor. The Emperor wanted to give her a name, but I heard that she politely refused, and she was still working as a maid beside Concubine Xu. She only begged the Emperor to let her younger brother enter the Imperial hospital. They can see each other from time to time. The Emperor nodded in agreement. The 12-year-old Imperial Physician Wei became the youngest Imperial physician in the Imperial hospital. He worshipped the highly skilled physician of the imperial hospital as his teacher and has been devoting himself to studying the medical prescriptions of the past dynasties. In just a few years, he has become famous in the capital for his superb medical skills and rejuvenation.¡±

    ¡°Everyone in the palace knows that the Emperor looks at her differently, and even Concubine Xu was favored more, and she was soon promoted to a position and became a noble concubine. .¡±

    Hearing Concubine Xu¡¯s name, Ling Jingshu¡¯s eyes turned cold.

    This Xu Guifei later became the Queen Mother of the Great Zhou Dynasty. There was a son and a daughter under her knees, the son Yan Wang, who later became the Crown Prince and ascended the throne as the Emperor. The daughter, Princess Changping, was most favored by the emperor.

    Back then, it was the honorable Princess Changping who fell in love with Lu Hong and insisted on recruiting him as a son-in-law!

    Ling Jingyan didn¡¯t notice it and continued: ¡°Later, Empress Jiang died of illness, and the emperor logically appointed Concubine Xu as his Empress. Imperial Physician Wei¡¯s sister was also named Jieyu.

    ¡± Everyone in the hospital scrambled to curry favor. The drudgery of treating the concubines and the royal family was beyond his responsibility. Doctor Wei had exquisite medical skills, but he had nowhere to use them. He felt very helpless. So he set up a hospital in the capital Chushan Hall which was dedicated to taking in patients with incurable diseases. Because it cured many patients who were diagnosed as dying, it soon became famous in the capital.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s when everyone saw that Imperial Physician Wei¡¯s medical skills were superb. Later, Imperial Physician Wei became the Emperor¡¯s exclusive imperial physician. Except for the Emperor, only the Empress and the Crown Prince who has been ill for a long time can invite the Imperial physician Wei. ¡±

    ¡°However, the philanthropic hall set up by Imperial Physician Wei in the capital has not been closed. It still takes in patients who have not been cured for a long time. However, Imperial Physician Wei has to be on duty in the palace, so he has very little free time every month. Only on the first and fifteenth day of every month can he go to the clinic. Imperial physician Wei was known as Miracle Doctor Wei, and that clinic also had a nickname, Huichuntang. As long as you live in the capital, there is no one who does not know Huichuntang. ¡±

    ¡± Miracle Doctor Wei is well-known in the capital, not only because of his superb medical skills and noble status. It is also because of his elegant and handsome appearance, he is a well-known handsome man in the capital, and he is only twenty-four years old this year. I don¡¯t know how many daughters of famous families secretly admire him, and wait outside Huichun Hall with brazen faces, just to catch a glimpse of him. It¡¯s a pity that Dr Wei is obsessed with medical skills and is very indifferent to women. He has not yet married. ¡±

    Ling Jingyan said with a dry mouth and drank the tea in her hand casually.

    Then, as if thinking of something, she looked at Ling Jingshu curiously: ¡°Sister Shu, why are you asking so carefully? Could it be that you also want to go to the capital to see this divine doctor Wei? ¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t refute it, she just acquiesced.

    Ling Jingyan was just joking at first, but seeing Ling Jingshu¡¯s reaction like this, she couldn¡¯t help but be startled: ¡°Well, what are you going to see him for? ¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t hide anything, and said frankly: ¡°Ah Xiao fell down when he was eight years old and hurt his brain. He has been blind for so many years and has been unable to see, so he can no longer read and practice calligraphy. I have always regretted it in my heart. If there is a chance to cure his eyes, I must try it. ¡±

    Since she had made up her mind to go to the capital, there is no need to hide the matter of treating Ling Xiao¡¯s eyes.

    Ling Jingyan was taken aback for a moment and then sighed: ¡°Cousin Xiao¡¯s eyes are indeed a pity. He was very clever since he was a child, and was known as a child prodigy. If it wasn¡¯t for being blind, he might have passed the county examination a long time ago.¡±

    After a pause, she continued: ¡°It is indeed a good thing that you want to take cousin Xiao to the capital for treatment of his eye. However, it is a long way to go, and it may not be cured in time when it arrives in the capital. I don¡¯t know how much time and effort it will take. Grandmother and Fifth Uncle may not be willing to nod in agreement. ¡±

    Ling Jingshu looked at Ling Jingyan sincerely: ¡°To tell you the truth, I have already planned this in my heart, and I have also thought of a countermeasure. When grandma¡¯s birthday is over, you will return to the capital. I want to go to Luoyang with you. We have to stay at my Eldest Uncle¡¯s home for a while. Then I will ask Cousin Yan to take care of us.¡±

    Ling Jingyan smiled without thinking: ¡°This is a good idea. Go to the capital with us, I guess Grandma and Uncle Wu have nothing to worry about. Don¡¯t say polite words to me, you can just stay in the mansion when you arrive in the capital, it doesn¡¯t matter how long you want to stay.¡±

    Ling Jingyan¡¯s enthusiasm was quite surprising.

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t have much affection for Ling Jingyan at first. At this time, she couldn¡¯t help being moved: ¡°Then I will thank Cousin Yan first.¡± Then she reminded her gently: ¡°I haven¡¯t mentioned this matter to my grandmother, so I ask Cousin Yan to keep it a secret for now.¡±

    Ling Jingyan responded with a smile.

    ¡­

    The two chatted for a long time, and at noon, Ling Jingshu deliberately kept Ling Jingyan to have lunch in Qiushui Pavilion. She sent someone to call Ling Xiao over again.

    Unexpectedly, when Ling Xiao came over, there were two more people following behind him.

    When Lu Hong¡¯s handsome and gentle face came into view, Ling Jingshu frowned almost reflexively, her expression suddenly turned cold.

    Lu Hong was used to Ling Jingshu¡¯s indifference, and he was not discouraged. He walked forward with a smile: ¡°Cousin Shu, I was explaining the current situation to Cousin Xiao just now. I heard that Cousin Shu had prepared lunch here. I couldn¡¯t help being greedy for a while, so I followed with a smile. Please don¡¯t take offence to my cousin.¡±

    So what?

    Everyone was here, so we can¡¯t just drive him away like this!

    Although she wanted to do this very much, but thinking of Madam Ling, she had to restrain her impulse and replied coldly: ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Cousin Lu and Cousin Qian to come here together. The food is not rich, I¡¯m afraid we are going to neglect our guests.¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t turn her face on the spot and was willing to restrain her temper to deal with him. Lu Hong was very happy in his heart, and he didn¡¯t care about whether the food was good or not. He laughed again and said: ¡°Cousin Shu doesn¡¯t think our brothers are presumptuous.¡±

    Lu Qian couldn¡¯t get in a word for a while, so he stood aside with a smile. But those eyes stared at Ling Jingshu without blinking.

    Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see, but Ling Jingyan¡¯s eyesight was very good. She had a panoramic view of this scene, and couldn¡¯t help but be secretly amused.

    The admiration in Lu Hong¡¯s eyes was so obvious that even a blind man could see it. That¡¯s all! Unexpectedly, Lu Qian, who is still a child, also knows what it means to be a ¡°good lady and a gentleman¡±.

    1. It means the last disciple.

    T/N Woo Hoo first mention of our ML

 Chapter 20

    In the past few days, Ling Jingshu was busy making friends with Ling Jingyan and spent much less time with Ling Xiao.

    Lu Hong accompanied Ling Xiao every day, patiently pointing and teaching him the classics and this time, Ling Xiao benefited a lot. He didn¡¯t have many opportunities to get along with teenagers of the same age, so he found it quite new. Lu Hong deliberately coaxed him again, and the two quickly became very close.

    Ling Jingshu sent someone to ask Ling Xiao to come to Qiushui Pavilion for lunch, Ling Xiao naturally opened his mouth and invited Brother Lu Hong to come with him. Unexpectedly, Ling Jingshu would be unhappy because of this.

    Even if he didn¡¯t see anything, he could hear the indifference in Ling Jingshu¡¯s impatient tone.

    ¡°Ah Shu,¡± Ling Xiao tugged at Ling Jingshu¡¯s sleeves with some unease, and asked in a low voice, ¡°Are you unhappy?¡±

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s expression immediately softened, and her tone was relaxed and cheerful: ¡°There are many people eating together and it¡¯s lively. , how could I be unhappy, don¡¯t worry too much. The food is ready, we¡¯ll go there now.¡±

    Then, she took Ling Xiao¡¯s hand, and held Ling Jingyan¡¯s hand again with a smile: ¡°Cousin Yan, let¡¯s go in together.¡±

    Lu Hong and Lu Qian who were intentionally or unintentionally snubbed: ¡°¡­¡±

    The two brothers looked at each other, each concealing the disappointment in their hearts, and followed as if nothing had happened.

    ¡­

    The meals were, of course, plentiful. There were no elders present, and there was less restraint.

    Ling Jingyan took a glance, and couldn¡¯t help laughing and said, ¡°Are you going to have a whole fish feast today?¡±

    Most of the dishes on the table were fish, and there was no need to elaborate on the various methods of steaming, braised, sweet and sour, and soup.

    ¡°A Xiao likes to eat fish the most.¡± Ling Jingshu smiled and explained briefly. Then she picked up a piece of fish, carefully and patiently removed all the fish bones, and put it in Ling Xiao¡¯s bowl.

    Ling Xiao liked to eat fish since he was a child. Once the eyes are out of sight, eating fish becomes a hassle. Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t want to bother others, so she always did the picking of fishbones by herself.

    Ling Xiao¡¯s bowl was almost full, and Ling Jingshu stopped her hands, and said softly, ¡°Ah Xiao, the fishbone has been picked out, so you can eat it without worry.¡±

    Ling Xiao hummed happily, and buried his head in eating.

    Seeing Ling Xiao eating happily, Ling Jingshu also had a smile on her face.

    That light and gentle smile instantly lit up her beautiful face, and her eyes were flowing, shining like jewels, and full of brilliance.

    Under such a breathtaking radiance, all words seemed pale and feeble.

    Lu Hong took a breath and stared at her uncontrollably.

    So hot, so focused.

    Impossible to ignore.

    Ling Jingshu just turned a blind eye to it and brought food for Ling Jingyan with a smile: ¡°Cousin Yan, I don¡¯t know if these dishes suit your taste. Don¡¯t stand still, eat more.¡±

    Ling Jingyan collected herself and responded with a smile.

    Sitting in front of such a handsome young man, cousin Shu was not moved at all. This concentration is really amazing.

    ¡°Cousin Shu, you¡¯ve been picking fishbone for Cousin Xiao, and picking up vegetables for Cousin Yan, and you haven¡¯t eaten yet!¡± Lu Qian broke the silence with a smile, while enthusiastically picking up vegetables for Ling Jingshu, he piled up a bowl in a blink of an eye: ¡°You must have lost your appetite these days. You look thinner. It¡¯s better to eat more.¡±

    Faced with such enthusiasm, Ling Jingshu couldn¡¯t keep her face sullen, so she could only thank him.

    At this point, the silent and weird atmosphere at the dinner table was slightly dissolved.

    ¡°Tomorrow is grandma¡¯s birthday. What birthday gift did you prepare?¡± Ling Jingyan asked curiously.

    Ling Jingshu smiled and said, ¡°It was prepared a long time ago. I made a pair of shoes for my grandmother. What about you? What have you prepared?¡±

    ¡°I originally planned to make clothes for my grandmother, but my mother said that I am not exquisite, and my grandmother would definitely not like the clothes I made. Later, I changed it into a sachet. I put some dried chrysanthemums in the sachet. Yes, it has the effect of calming the nerves, refreshing the mind, and calming the mind.¡±

    The two sisters were chattering away.

    After all, Lu Hong was separated by a floor, so it was inconvenient to say anything.

    Lu Qian had no scruples anymore, and interjected with a smile: ¡°I copied a Buddhist scripture for my grandmother.¡± Then he asked Ling Xiao enthusiastically, ¡°Cousin Xiao, have you prepared a gift for our grandmother?¡±

    Ling Xiao was a little embarrassed, He whispered: ¡°I originally wanted to prepare the congratulatory gift myself. But my eyes are blind, so I can¡¯t copy Buddhist scriptures¡­¡±

    It¡¯s really a pot that can¡¯t be opened! Knowing that Ling Xiao was blind and had to be taken care of in daily life, it is impossible to prepare any congratulatory gifts by himself!

    Lu Qian was secretly annoyed and hurriedly said with a smile: ¡°Having this kind of filial piety is more important than anything else. Even if you don¡¯t give anything, grandma won¡¯t mind.¡±

    Ling Xiao forced a smile, but his brows were a little unhappy.

    ¡°I came up with an idea.¡± Lu Hong suddenly smiled and said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t take too much thought, and it can make grandma happy.¡±

    Ling Xiao¡¯s face brightened, and he asked expectantly: ¡°What solution did Cousin Hong think of?¡±

    Lu Hong leaned into Ling Xiao¡¯s ear and whispered a few words. Ling Xiao nodded excitedly while listening.

    Ling Jingshu was also aroused by curiosity and wanted to open her mouth to ask. But as soon as he saw Lu Hong¡¯s tender eyes, she felt sick to her stomach and swallowed the words silently.

    ¡­¡­

    The Ling family was a well-known family in Dingzhou, Uncle Ling was an official in the capital, and Fifth Master Ling was a well-known romantic celebrity in Dingzhou City, so it goes without saying that he had a wide range of friends. There was also Lu An, the son-in-law who came back from a long way and was the governor of Jizhou, and so the old lady Ling¡¯s 70th birthday banquet was naturally very lively.

    Early in the morning, Ling Mansion opened the front door to welcome guests.

    A cloud of guests came to celebrate birthdays and give gifts, and the Ling family¡¯s sons, daughters-in-law, grandsons, and granddaughters all went to the battle to greet the guests, and they were so busy that they didn¡¯t touch the ground.

    Ling Jingshu also had no leisure. She, Ling Jingxian, Ling Jingwan, and Ling Jingyan was responsible for greeting the young girls who came to visit with their elders.

    Those who were eligible to visit were all well-known boudoir daughters in Dingzhou City. Most of them were acquainted with Ling Jingshu, and it was inevitable to have a warm greeting when meeting each other.

    After a long time, Ling Jingshu¡¯s mouth was dry and her throat was almost smoking.

    Due to his blindness, Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t come out to greet the guests, but he was happy and relaxed. He had been sitting obediently by Mrs. Ling¡¯s side.

    The female relatives who came to celebrate Mrs. Ling¡¯s birthday would inevitably look at Ling Xiao regretfully when they were talking to Mrs. Ling.

    This beautiful, delicate and intelligent young man happened to be blind in an accident. Unable to read and write, and have to be taken care of in daily life, just like a disabled person. What a pity.

    Ling Xiao didn¡¯t notice these strange eyes¡­ Maybe he noticed it, but so what? Since he was eight years old, he has lived under such gazes. Over time, you have to get used to it.

    The guests congratulating and giving gifts finally came to an end.

    The old lady Ling was very energetic today, and she didn¡¯t feel tired, she smiled at Madam Ling: ¡°Your father left early, I have been raising your brothers and sisters alone for so many years, and I am getting old after such a dazzling effort. ¡±

    Seventy years of life were rare in ancient times. If you live to be seventy years old and still be so energetic, you were indeed living a long life. Ling¡¯s mouth has been sweet since she was a child, and she was used to coaxing old lady Ling

    . Hearing this, she immediately smiled and said, ¡°Mother, your complexion is ruddy and you look energetic. You look at most fifty years old, so you don¡¯t look old.¡±

    This coaxed a hearty smile.

    Ling Xiao, who had been silent all this time, suddenly smiled and said, ¡°Grandmother, grandson has also prepared a birthday gift for you!¡±

    Old Lady Ling suddenly became interested: ¡°Since you have prepared a gift, why didn¡¯t you just go with Sister Shu and the others?¡± Bring it up?¡±

    ¡°Grandson prepared a different gift.¡± Ling Xiao smiled clearly, like a child who doesn¡¯t understand the world, with an innocent innocence.

    The old lady Ling always cherished Ling Xiao, and she smiled lovingly: ¡°What kind of gift is it? After you say that, grandma is curious and looking forward to it.¡±

    Ling Xiao stood up, and cleared his throat: ¡°Grandma¡¯s birthday, The grandson made a special poem for his grandmother.¡±

    It turned out to be a birthday poem.

    Mrs. Ling listened with great interest.

    ¡°Fortune wine is fragrant and all guests stop, like receiving blessings and longevity immortals. The green pine and cranes in the east tower, the sea is broad and the heart is prosperous. Shou Zhixiang comes to reflect the sun and the moon, and compares songs and poems to wish the elderly. The southern sky moves to the ginseng The banyan tree, and the fairy peaches bestowed by the mountains have entered the pavilion.¡± Ling Xiao chanted slowly, his voice clear and melodious.

    The old lady Ling was very knowledgeable, she smiled happily when she heard it, and nodded repeatedly: ¡°Okay! This poem is really well done! Grandma received so many gifts today, and this gift is the most suitable one.¡±

    As soon as the old lady Ling spoke, others naturally want to make fun of and praise a few words.

    Ling Xiao was very happy when he came back to the limelight. It¡¯s a pity that Ah Shu accompanied a group of girls to enjoy the flowers in the garden, and she couldn¡¯t share his joy because she wasn¡¯t here.

    A familiar boy¡¯s voice rang in his ears: ¡°Cousin Xiao, your birthday poem is really good.¡±

    Ling Xiao grinned: ¡°Thank you, Cousin Hong, for giving me such a good idea.¡±

    Lu Hong didn¡¯t take credit for it, and smiled modestly: ¡°I just mentioned casually, you made this birthday poem by yourself, and I didn¡¯t help at all.¡±

    After a pause, he asked tentatively ¡°Cousin Xiao, did you want to find Cousin Shu just now? It¡¯s difficult for you to walk alone, so let me go out with you to find her!¡±

    Ling Xiao was taken aback and nodded quickly.

    Lu Hong suppressed the joy in his heart and slipped out of the inner hall with Ling Xiao while everyone was not paying attention.

    It was indeed the right decision to make friends with Ling Xiao. This was the most convenient way to get close to Ling Jingshu. The most wonderful thing was that this time, taking advantage of the crowd, Lu Qian was also thrown off. Lu Qian always followed behind him, so he couldn¡¯t find a chance to confess his feelings¡­

    Lu Hong was thinking charmingly when Ling Xiao suddenly stopped and whispered in a volume that only two people could hear: ¡°Cousin Hong, do you like Ah Shu?¡±

    Lu Hong: ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 21

    The sudden question caught Lu Hong off guard and he blushed instantly.

    Knowing that Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see, Lu Hong still moved his eyes away guiltily, and coughed unnaturally: ¡°Cousin Xiao, why are you asking this all of a sudden?¡±

    Ling Xiao had a keen ear, and followed the voice to look at Lu Hong: ¡°I ask this, I have my own intentions. Cousin Hong just needs to answer me. Do you like Ah Shu?¡±

    Yes!

    Of course, I like it!

    He fell in love with her at first sight, and he tossed and turned for her. Every day I think hard, just to see her more. Occasionally say a word or two, and my heart will be full of joy, and I will be in a good mood all day long.

    Ling Xiao waited patiently. After a while, Lu Hong mustered up the courage and nodded. Thinking that Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see, he hummed again.

    Ling Xiao was not surprised either.

    He was blind, but he had a keen sense of hearing. Every time A Shu was mentioned, there would be uncontrollable excitement in Lu Hong¡¯s voice. When they met, Lu Hong was happy no matter how indifferent Ah Shu was.

    This is not like love then what else?

    ¡°Today is my grandmother¡¯s birthday, and there are a lot of guests in the mansion. Ah Shu wants to greet the guests, and now I go to the garden, and even if I see her, I don¡¯t have a chance to talk.¡± Ling Xiao lowered his voice and laughed: ¡°After the luncheon, the theater troupe will start. When it is time to sing, and I will quietly call Ah shu to come to Qiushui Pavilion. Don¡¯t disturb others, come here alone. If you have anything to say, just talk to Ah shu!¡±

    Lu Hong was both surprised and delighted: ¡°What you said is true? Cousin Xiao, you didn¡¯t lie to me, did you?¡± He had been looking for a chance to talk to her in private, but unfortunately, he had no chance. Unexpectedly, Ling Xiao would take the initiative to bring this up today.

    This was simply a good thing that fell from the sky.

    Ling Xiao nodded with a smile.

    Lu Hong grabbed Ling Xiao¡¯s hand and was a little incoherent excitedly: ¡°Cousin Xiao, thank you. You are so kind to me.¡±

    Ling Xiao grinned but thought to himself, I didn¡¯t do it all because of you.

    Ah Shu has been thinking a lot lately, and I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s because of Lu Hong. Rather than procrastinating in such an ambiguous manner, it would be better for the two of them to speak clearly face to face. If Ah Shu is also interested in Lu Hong, everyone will be happy.

    If she intends to be ruthless¡­it can also make Lu Hong give up earlier.

    ¡­

    Ling¡¯s mansion set up a tall theater stage and specially invited the most famous theater troupe from Dingzhou City.

    There were many tables and chairs beside the stage. The male guests and the female relatives sat on one side, chatting and laughing in low voices while watching the play, which was quite lively.

    Ling Jingshu and Ling Jingyan sat together, whispered something, and smiled at each other.

    ¡°Tang Sister Shu is really amazing. In just a few days, she has gotten so close to Sister Yan.¡± The sourness in Ling Jingxian¡¯s words couldn¡¯t hide it: ¡°People who don¡¯t know may think they two are real sisters!¡±

    She and Ling Jingyan had some unpleasant quarrels at first, even if she wanted to get closer, she couldn¡¯t help it for a while. Seeing Ling Jingshu and Ling Jingyan getting along so intimately, she felt inexplicably resentful.

    Ling Jingwan smiled: ¡°Cousin Yan rarely returns to Dingzhou to live for a few days, and I guess she should return to the capital soon. No matter how good our cousin Shu is with her, it is impossible to follow her to the capital. What do you care about?¡±

    It also makes sense.

    Ling Jingxian¡¯s mood suddenly calmed down a lot, she picked up the pastry and put it in her mouth, watching the show.

    She stays in the inner house all day and rarely has the chance to go out as a guest. The people who come and go every day were those few faces, and what she does was nothing more than reading, embroidery, playing the piano, painting, and so on. Today¡¯s opera troupe was singing, and everyone was watching with great interest.

    On the stage at this moment, a white and handsome martial artist stood tall, holding a long knife, majestic. Another funny clown turned somersaults while running, attracting bursts of applause and greetings.

    Ling Jingshu was quiet by nature, she had no interest in listening to operas, and chatted with Ling Jingyan casually.

    The maid Jing Yu came over quietly and said in a low voice: ¡°Miss Nine, the young master doesn¡¯t want to stay here because it is too noisy. He asked you to accompany him back to Qiushui Pavilion!¡±

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t doubt that her brother wanted to go back and immediately agreed with a smile.

    ¡­

    Ling Jingshu stepped into the Qiushui Pavilion with a smile, and called out: ¡°Ah Xiao.¡±

    Ling Xiao didn¡¯t appear, but an unexpectedly handsome face came into view, with a smile on his eyebrows, as warm as a spring breeze: ¡± Cousin Shu.¡±

    It was Lu Hong!

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s smile disappeared suddenly, and her voice became cold: ¡°Why are you here? Where is Ah Xiao?¡± Could it be that he followed Ling Xiao?

    Lu Hong hesitated for a while before telling the truth: ¡°Cousin Xiao specially asked me to come here to wait for you.¡±

    Ling Jingshu: ¡°¡­¡±

    What was Ling Xiao doing? !

    Ling Jingshu frowned, and a not-so-good conjecture flashed in her mind: ¡°Why did Ah Xiao ask you to come to see me? ¡±

    Her disgust and indifference, like a pot of cold water, poured down and extinguished most of Lu Hong¡¯s joy and excitement. The smile on his face was also slightly stiff: ¡°Cousin Xiao also has good intentions, and wants the two of us to have a chance to be alone for a while, talk for a while¡­¡±

    ¡°No need! ¡±

    Ling Jingshu said coldly: ¡°There is a difference between men and women, and so we should avoid suspicion.¡± Moreover, we don¡¯t know each other well at all, so I don¡¯t think there is anything to say. You go away first! ¡±

    Lu Hong couldn¡¯t laugh anymore, and blurted out the words hidden deep in his heart: ¡°Cousin Shu, what did I do wrong? Why do you hate me so much? Why are you so harsh with me? ¡±

    Why?

    Ling Jingshu twitched the corners of her lips, without the slightest smile in her eyes, and ordered without turning her head: ¡°Bai Yu, go and guard the door, and don¡¯t let anyone in. ¡±

    Today there was an opera troupe singing in the mansion, and all the maids and women went to join in the fun. Now there was no one in the Qiushui Pavilion. Bai Yu carefully closed the door and stood guard outside the courtyard.

    Lu Hong stood under the veranda, and Ling Jingshu stood in the courtyard. The two of them faced each other at a distance of about three meters.

    The long-awaited solitude suddenly became a reality. But Lu Hong¡¯s heart sank unsteadily.

    Ling Jingshu, who never looked directly at him, finally lifted her eyes up today. The beautiful, bright, and clear eyes stared straight at him: ¡°Lu Hong, I will tell you the answer to the question you asked me just now. ¡±

    Lu Hong wanted to say something but held back himself.

    ¡°You did nothing wrong.¡± Because you haven¡¯t had time yet.

    ¡°I can guess a thing or two about your feelings for me. However, I have half the affection for you. So, I don¡¯t want to let you have the slightest misunderstanding. ¡±

    In this life, I will never repeat the same mistakes again, and I will never be moved by your tenderness and affection again.

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s tone was very calm, and there was no usual disgust in her eyes looking at him, just like looking at an irrelevant stranger.

    This kind of calm look was even more hurtful than the previous indifference and disgust.

    Lu Hong¡¯s face turned pale slightly, and he forced himself to be calm: ¡°Cousin Shu, the two of us have only been together for a short time, and you are not familiar with my character and temperament. It is reasonable to be wary of me.¡±

    ¡°Like you brother and sister, I also lost my mother when I was young. I know what it¡¯s like not to have a mother. I studied hard since I was a child, hoping to pass the imperial examination as soon as possible. Before meeting you, I never paid attention to girls of the same age, let alone thought of my lifelong event. But that day when I met you in the garden, I fell in love with you at first sight. These days I tried my best to get close to cousin Xiao, just to take the opportunity to see you more times. Cousin Xiao saw that and so specially created an opportunity for me to be alone with you and express my heart.¡±

    ¡°I have already thought about it. After today, I will mention our marriage to my parents. If the heavens are merciful, I will be honored to marry you as my wife, I will give you my heart and soul in this life.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, I will swear to the heavens now. In the heavens, I, Lu Hong, love Ling Jingshu, and I will never change my love in this life. If I break this oath, I will be struck by thunder. If I separate from you, I will die badly.¡±

    ¡­

    The handsome young man confided his heart affectionately.

    This scene was enough to win the hearts of all boudoir girls!

    In her previous life, she was intoxicated with such tenderness and affection and easily gave her heart. Trusting and relying on him wholeheartedly, and full of longing for the future, she married into the Lu family¡­ But who would have thought that in just a few years, he would change his mind! Abandoned his wife, stayed in the capital, and never returned to Dingzhou.

    It was because of him that she fell into such a miserable situation!

    Huge hatred and intense pain were surging in her heart, and Ling Jingshu¡¯s voice was also sharp and excited: ¡°What you think is all your business, and has nothing to do with me. I don¡¯t have any affection for you, and I never had the idea of ??marrying you. Let¡¯s go when you¡¯re done talking!¡±

    All of Lu Hong¡¯s expressions froze.

    A sincere confession, in exchange for an indifferent rejection. No one can face it calmly. What¡¯s more, under Lu Hong¡¯s gentle and polite appearance, he never lacked the sense of superiority of the children of the aristocratic family and the pride of being a young man¡­

    Lu Hong pursed his lips and walked over suddenly. In front of Ling Jingshu, just two steps away from her, he stopped: ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me? Why do you hate me so much and refuse to give me a chance?¡±

    He had a good background and a good father. He was the eldest son of the Lu family and will be the head of the Lu clan in the future.

    He was intelligent since he was a child, had a photographic memory, and was extremely talented in reading, and he had earned the reputation of a scholar early on. The future was limitless.

    He had a good appearance, good demeanor, and temperament, and was praised by everyone as a beautiful boy.

    With him like this, how could Ling Jingshu not like him at all?

    Lu Hong couldn¡¯t restrain his turbulent emotions and suddenly stretched out his hand to hold her hand. Just touched her fingers, before he could hold her slender and soft hand in her palm¡­

    Ling Jingshu¡¯s face turned pale suddenly, her whole body seemed to convulse, and strong nausea surged in her heart, she staggered back a step. Then she vomited out with a wow.

 Chapter 22

    This throw-up was by no means an adjective.

    Ling Jingshu really vomited.

    The stomach seemed to be stirred by something constantly, and the whole body was numb, but the fingers touched by Lu Hong before were hot, as if being burned by a fire.

    Lu Hong was also frightened by Ling Jingshu¡¯s fierce reaction and froze in place. He watched Ling Jingshu¡¯s face contour with pain as she vomited.

    The human body responds most directly and acutely. He only touched her finger, and her reaction was so violent¡­ It turned out that she wasn¡¯t acting, she really hated him!

    The sound of Ling Jingshu vomiting startled Bai Yu who was guarding the courtyard.

    Bai Yu hurriedly pushed open the courtyard door, and when she saw Ling Jingshu vomit in embarrassment, she was both shocked and distressed. She rushed over quickly, supported Ling Jingshu, and patted her on the back: ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong with you? Is there something uncomfortable?¡±

    After vomiting completely, the spasm in the stomach finally subsided.

    Ling Jingshu was weak all over, her limbs were sore and limp, she leaned on Bai Yu¡¯s shoulder with a bleak face.

    Bai Yu¡¯s voice was already choked with sobs: ¡°It was fine before, why did it suddenly become like this. The servant girl will let someone report to the master and wife, and now invite a doctor¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t disturb anyone.¡± Ling Jingshu¡¯s voice was weak, but she was extremely persistent: ¡°You help me into the house. I¡¯ll be fine after I rest for a while.¡±

    Bai Yu couldn¡¯t resist Ling Jingshu, so she had no choice but to respond. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Lu Hong¡¯s stiff, ugly, sad, and handsome face, and his heart became more and more strange.

    What the hell happened just now? Why did the lady suddenly vomit?

    ¡°Miss is not feeling well, so the servant will help her into the room to rest first. It is inconvenient to see Young Master Biao.¡±(1) Bai Yu said it very euphemistically, but the meaning behind her words was very clear.

    Yes, he should leave too!

    Lu Hong wanted to say goodbye to Ling Jingshu, but when he looked up and saw Ling Jingshu¡¯s embarrassed and weak appearance, he swallowed all the words again.

    Then, turn around and leave.

    When he came, he was full of joy and anticipation and walked briskly. When he went back, his heart was sore and sad, and his feet were as heavy as a thousand catties.

    ¡­¡­

    Lu Hong came out of Qiushui Pavilion in a daze.

    Just a few steps away, he met Ling Xiao.

    ¡°Cousin Hong,¡± Ling Xiao listened to Lu Hong¡¯s footsteps, with a clean line on his lips: ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting here for you. Have you seen Ah shu?¡±

    Lu Hong¡¯s face was stiff, he couldn¡¯t speak at all. No smile came out, just hummed in a low voice.

    Ling Xiao asked curiously: ¡°Have you confessed your feelings to her? How did she react?¡±

    Lu Hong¡¯s expression was obscure, and his voice was a little hoarse: ¡°I was too abrupt. She didn¡¯t have the slightest affection for me at all¡­ . ¡± He can no longer deceive himself by thinking that, in fact, she also has a good impression of him in her heart, but she refuses to show it because she was shy.

    She hates him! She was so disgusted that she didn¡¯t want to look at him anymore! So disgusted that he only touched her finger, and she vomited!

    Thinking of this, Lu Hong felt as if his heart had been hollowed out, empty, and extremely uncomfortable.

    Ling Xiao couldn¡¯t see Lu Hong and didn¡¯t know that Lu Hong¡¯s eyes were full of sadness and loneliness at this moment, and even quietly glowed with water. However, he could hear the trembling and despair in Lu Hong¡¯s voice.

    Ling Xiao sighed secretly and patted Lu Hong¡¯s shoulder comfortingly: ¡°Cousin Hong, don¡¯t be too sad. It¡¯s probably because there is no fate between you and Ah shu. With your family background, character, appearance, and talent, you will definitely learn from it in the future. There will be a good marriage.¡±

    ¡°A good marriage¡­¡± Lu Hong murmured and smiled miserably.

    No matter how many beautiful and lovely girls there were in the world, no one could replace Ling Jingshu.

    Without her, where would he have a good marriage?

    Lu Hong was in a low mood and really didn¡¯t want to speak. Ling Xiao didn¡¯t know how to comfort him, so he thought for a while and said: ¡°Cousin Hong, you are in a bad mood, so don¡¯t go to the theater. Don¡¯t show anything wrong in front of others. Why don¡¯t you go back to the house and stay alone? Be quiet.¡±

    Lu Hong hummed and left with heavy steps.

    Ling Xiao stood there for a while, then walked towards Qiushui Pavilion.

    ¡­

    Ling Xiao has been blind for many years, and he knows the way to Ling Mansion like the back of his hand, especially the way to Qiushui Pavilion, he has walked it countless times. Already thoroughly familiar with the heart, he didn¡¯t need the maid¡¯s help at all.

    As soon as he stepped into the yard, Ling Xiao smelled a strange smell and rustling sounds.

    Ling Xiao frowned. Just as he was about to open his mouth to ask, Bai Yu¡¯s voice rang out: ¡°Sixth Young Master, why are you here?¡±

    ¡°Bai Yu, what are you doing?¡± Ling Xiao asked without answering, ¡°Where is Ah Shu?¡±

    Bai Yu hesitated for a moment, Finally, he told the truth: ¡°Just now, the young master of the Lu family was talking to the young lady alone, but for some reason, the young lady vomited out of her stomach. She is resting in the room now! The maidservant is here to clean up¡­¡±

    Before she finished speaking, Ling Xiao¡¯s expression changed, and he immediately went to Ling Jingshu¡¯s bedroom.

    Because he was flustered and lost his former composure, he almost tripped and fell.

    Jing Yu exclaimed, and rushed forward to support Ling Xiao: ¡°Master, be careful!¡±

    Ling Xiao¡¯s thin chest rose and fell rapidly, took a few deep breaths, and settled down: ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine. I want to go in and see Ah Shu.¡±

    Jing Yu was worried and followed Ling Xiao closely. After Ling Xiao pushed the door and entered, he stopped, closed the door gently, and stood outside.

    ¡°Ah Shu,¡± Ling Xiao groped to the side of the bed, with an anxious expression on his face: ¡°How are you doing now?¡±

    The moment Ling Xiao pushed the door and entered, Ling Jingshu opened her eyes.

    Her face was still a little pale, without any blood, and her voice was a little weak: ¡°I¡¯m fine, don¡¯t worry.¡±

    ¡°You vomited it all up, why are you fine.¡± Ling Xiao sat on the side of the bed, with an expression of annoyance and self-blame: ¡°It¡¯s all my fault, I shouldn¡¯t have made up my own mind and arranged for Cousin Hong to meet you privately.¡±

    Speaking of this, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a little strange. What did Lu Hong do to make Ling Jingshu react so violently!

    Ling Jingshu saw the doubts in Ling Xiao¡¯s heart, but she didn¡¯t want to explain further, and said lightly, ¡°I¡¯m really fine. I suddenly felt nauseous just now, so I vomited it out. Just take a short rest. You don¡¯t have to worry, and don¡¯t talk about what happened today. Don¡¯t tell others.¡±

    Ling Xiao solemnly agreed, hesitated for a moment, and then asked in a low voice: ¡°Ah Shu, do you really not like Cousin Hong at all?¡±

    Ling Jingshu replied firmly without hesitation: ¡°Of course No. If I can, I don¡¯t want to see him at all.¡±

    She only had a deep-rooted hatred and disgust for him, and she never wanted to have anything to do with him in this life.

    Ling Xiao didn¡¯t ask about the bottom line anymore. Ah Shu hated Lu Hong and didn¡¯t want to see him, so he will make sure not to let him appear in front of Ah Shu from now on.

    The two didn¡¯t speak, and the room fell silent.

    Ling Jingshu looked down at her fingers, the place touched by Lu Hong still had a strange burning sensation, which made her feel nauseous and very uncomfortable.

    This feeling was really not right¡­

    Ling Jingshu tentatively stretched out her hand and held Ling Xiao¡¯s hand. Xiao¡¯s hands were soft and warm, and the familiar touch was reassuring. The feeling of nausea that was just around the corner subsided like a tide.

    Ling Jingshu secretly heaved a sigh of relief.

    Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t dare to rest for too long, and after about half an hour, she went to the stage with Ling Xiao. The theater troupe was singing five daughters¡¯ birthday wishes, the singing was wonderful and lively, and everyone watched with great interest, but no one noticed Ling Jingshu¡¯s departure and return.

    Only Ling Jingyan asked with a smile: ¡°Why have you been away for so long?¡±

    Ling Jingshu replied nonchalantly: ¡°I don¡¯t like to listen to operas, I just went back to Qiushui Pavilion and slept secretly for a while.¡±

    Holding her hand and whispering: ¡°Grandma¡¯s birthday banquet will last for three days, and this troupe will sing for three days in a row. It¡¯s going to be quite lively these few days¡­¡±

    Ling Jingshu listened absent-mindedly. . There was nothing strange about the hand being held by Ling Jingyan.

    It seems that it was because she hated Lu Hong too much that she hated his touch so much.

    ¡­¡­

    In the afternoon, the troupe finally broke up.

    The guests who came to celebrate the birthday said goodbye one by one, and the Ling family was busy again. After seeing off the guests, the evening family banquet was about to start.

    The Ling family has been in Dingzhou for a hundred years and has a large number of people. This branch of the Ling family is a serious lineage. Old Madam Ling had a very high seniority, and today was her 70th birthday, so many people from her clan came to celebrate her birthday.

    Though it was a family banquet in name, there were more than a dozen seats. The male and the female relatives naturally have to sit at separate tables.

    Lu An glanced at his table, but he didn¡¯t see Lu Hong. He couldn¡¯t help but frowned, and called Lu Qian to ask, ¡°Ah Qian, where¡¯s Ah Hong?¡±

    Lu Qian lowered his head and replied, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen my eldest brother either.¡±

    He didn¡¯t know why Lu Qian was behaving awkwardly and avoiding him for the past few days. When they met, he did not take the initiative to speak. When he asked a question, Lu Qian didn¡¯t dare to answer. And that look of avoiding him was really depressing.

    Lu An ordered with a displeased face: ¡°You go and look for him quietly, and you must come back before the dinner begins.¡±

    Lu Qian responded and hurriedly went to look for his brother.

    Seeing Lu Qian leaving, Lu An¡¯s mood was not much better.

    He had been in Dingzhou for a few days, socializing with several brothers-in-law every day, and there were quite a few officials in Dingzhou City who come together to get close. However, after all, in Ling¡¯s natal family, many things have to be restrained¡­ At the banquet, at most, some singers will be invited to accompany the wine, so don¡¯t think about sleeping.

    For Lu An, who can¡¯t be without sex all day long, such a day was tantamount to the torment of the Qing Dynasty, and it was really not interesting to face Ling¡¯s mediocre and decrepit face all day long.

    In a trance, a pretty face with beautiful eyes suddenly came to mind.

    Lu An had always liked beautiful and enchanting mature women, and most of the concubines in the mansion were also of this type. He never thought that he would be attracted to a girl who was not yet a woman.

    1. Cousin from the father¡¯s side.

 Chapter 23

    Lu Qian stood outside Lu Hong¡¯s bedroom and knocked on the door: ¡°Brother, the dinner party is about to start. Father asked me to call you. If you don¡¯t go, it will be too late.¡±

    There was no movement in the room.

    Lu Qian did not leave, and continued to knock on the door persistently: ¡°I know you are in the room, open the door quickly.¡±

    After a while, Lu Hong¡¯s voice sounded in the room: ¡°I have no appetite, so I won¡¯t go to the dinner party.¡± In the voice some strange hoarseness.

    A strange light flashed in Lu Qian¡¯s eyes, and he softened his voice: ¡°Brother, you open the door first and let me in.¡±

    How could he see anyone in such a distressed state?

    Lu Hong responded without thinking: ¡°I¡¯m in a bad mood, and I want to be alone for a while. You go first!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t feel relieved until I see you with my own eyes.¡± Lu Qian¡¯s stubbornness was not easy to deal with, a slightly immature voice penetrated into Lu Hong¡¯s ears through the thick door panel: ¡°If you don¡¯t open the door, I¡¯ll tell my father right away, saying that you are obviously fine, but you deliberately shirked not to go to the dinner party.¡±

    Lu Hong: ¡± ¡­¡±

    After a while, Lu Hong finally came to open the door.

    At this time, it was getting late, and there were no candlesticks lit in the room, so the light was dim.

    But Lu Qian still noticed Lu Hong¡¯s pale handsome face and red eye sockets at a glance. He vaguely guessed what was going on, forced himself to suppress the joy in his heart, and asked pretendingly concerned: ¡°Brother, what happened? Why did you hide in the room alone and cry?¡±

    One person hid and cried it¡¯s shameful enough, what¡¯s even more shameful was to be found out and be asked about it. It was the bottom line!

    Even if the other party was his younger brother who he has been close to since childhood, Lu Hong still felt his face was hot. What¡¯s more, the confession was rejected and Ling Jingshu vomited on the spot, and he really couldn¡¯t say it¡­

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± Lu Hong tried his best to understate: ¡°I¡¯m just not in a good mood, but I¡¯m much better now. ¡°

    Lu Qian glared at Lu Hong with dissatisfaction: ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a fool? If something didn¡¯t happen, why would you hide in the room and cry alone.¡±

    Lu Hong refused to answer this question.

    Lu Qian¡¯s eyes flashed, and suddenly he said: ¡°Brother, did you go to see our cousin Shu this afternoon?¡±

    Lu Qian suddenly exposed a secret that he thought he had hidden so well that no one knew about it. His face flushed instantly, but he didn¡¯t deny it and nodded silently.

    ¡°You like Cousin Shu,¡± Lu Qian¡¯s tone was very affirmative: ¡°So you want to express your love to her. But¡­Cousin Shu rejected you. So you feel sad, and you hid in the room and cried secretly.¡±

    It was all a hit!

    However, Lu Qian could never guess the most embarrassing scene.

    Lu Hong nodded in embarrassment, thought for a while, and then told Lu Qian: ¡°Second brother, you should know this matter well, but don¡¯t tell our father and mother.¡±

    It would be too embarrassing if such a thing spread.

    A flash of joy flashed across Lu Qian¡¯s eyes, but he obediently replied: ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t tell others.¡± Was she really not moved at all? You are so outstanding, how can she not like you?¡±

    Lu Hong¡¯s fragile heart was ruthlessly trampled once again, and his expression became more bitter: ¡°Cousin Shu told me very clearly, she doesn¡¯t have any affection for me. I¡­I won¡¯t go to her again in the future.¡±

    Speaking of the last sentence, his eyes turned red again.

    For the first time in his life, he fell in love with someone. He was full of joy and looked forward to expressing his heart, but he was mercilessly rejected. Lu Hong¡¯s young heart has been broken into pieces.

    She loathed him so much, how could he have the face to appear in front of her again?

    ¡°Brother, don¡¯t be too sad.¡± Lu Qian hurriedly comforted his heartbroken brother: ¡°You have no fate with Cousin Shu, and there is nothing you can do about it. You will definitely meet better women in the future.¡±

    For example, the distinguished Princess Changping of the Great Zhou Dynasty!

    ¡­

    A few years later, Lu Hong will go to Beijing to take part in the exams, shine in the general and palace exams, and be appointed as the number one scholar by the Emperor. He also caught the eyes of Princess Changping.

    Princess Changping¡¯s biological mother was Empress Xu, and King Yan, who later became the crown prince, was the younger brother of the same mother. She was the most honorable woman in the Great Zhou Dynasty, and Lu Hong will become her husband and son-in-law of the Great Zhou Dynasty, and he will be prosperous and rich all his life!

    Although all this was not what Lu Hong wanted, he never thought of becoming a heartless person who abandoned his wife. But the Lu family saw that the wealth of the sky was close at hand, so how could they allow Lu Hong to refuse?

    Lu Hong was put under house arrest in his Second uncle¡¯s mansion, and the family letters he wrote never reached Ling Jingshu¡¯s hands but fabricated and exaggerated bad news came frequently. Ling Jingshu almost collapsed and shed tears all day long.

    Later, Lu An took Ling Jingshu by force, secretly ordered someone to imitate Ling Jingshu¡¯s handwriting, and wrote a last letter to Lu Hong. This letter also completely crushed Lu Hong.

    A loving couple, under the ambition and conspiracy of Lu¡¯s family, hated and resented each other and broke up completely.

    Until the moment of her death, Ling Jingshu didn¡¯t know the truth of the matter. She was reborn with hatred, and hated Lu Hong to the bone, how could she fall in love with Lu Hong again?

    And he was the only one who knows all the secrets! (1)

    Let this secret be hidden in his heart forever! Let Ling Jingshu be kept in the dark forever, and always hate Lu Hong.

    In this life, it was impossible for Lu Hong and Ling Jingshu to become husband and wife again. He will be Ling Jingshu¡¯s lover in this life.

    Thinking of this, secret joy and excitement flashed in Lu Qian¡¯s heart, and there was still a concerned expression on his delicate face: ¡°Brother, with your current appearance, it is really not appropriate to go out to meet people, lest you arouse suspicion. I will go back right away. Report to our father that you have a headache and you need to rest in the house.¡±

    Lu Hong got up his spirits and thanked: ¡°Thank you for your trouble, and  for covering it up for me.¡±

    ¡°We are brothers of the same blood, you being so polite to me, isn¡¯t it too outlandish.¡± Lu Qian grinned, and his delicate and clean face became more and more lovely.

    After Lu Qian left, Lu Hong¡¯s expression of barely holding on suddenly became sluggish.

    ¡­¡­

    When Lu Qian returned to the dining room, the dinner just started.

    Seeing that Lu Qian was alone, Lu An frowned unhappily.

    Every time Lu Qian saw his father¡¯s face, Ling Jingshu¡¯s haggard, thin, pale, and numb face appeared in Lu Qian¡¯s mind, and bloody and violent impulses surged in his heart.

    He quickly lowered his eyes and said in a low voice: ¡°Father, brother feels a headache and has already slept and rested. He can¡¯t come to the dinner party.¡±

    In front of everyone, Lu Ann nodded his head without saying anything more.

    Lu An was the son-in-law of the Ling family, with a dignified status, at the dinner, both peers and juniors came to toast. Although Lu An can drink well, he couldn¡¯t help toasting round after round and got drunk that night. Originally wanted to see Lu Hong, but forgot about it.

    When Lu Hong appeared the next day, most of his slumped expression had been concealed, and the redness and swelling in his eyes had also subsided. It doesn¡¯t look like much energy, but it doesn¡¯t make people suspicious.

    ¡°My son greets my father!¡± Lu Hong stepped forward to greet Lu An.

    Lu An had a headache because of a hangover, and his complexion was not pretty. He frowned and asked, ¡°What happened to you yesterday? You were safe at noon, why did you start to have a headache in the afternoon? You didn¡¯t even come to the dinner.¡±

    Lu Hong already prepared, immediately replied apologetically: ¡°Back to my father, after the luncheon yesterday, I had nothing to do, so I wandered around in the garden for a while. Probably the wind was strong, and my head hurt a little. Yesterday was my grandmother¡¯s birthday, so if I asked the doctor to come in, it could have been unlucky. So I kept silent, rested alone in the house, and didn¡¯t have the energy to attend the dinner party. After a night of sleep, my energy is much better.¡±

    This explanation was reasonable.

    Lu An¡¯s face softened a little: ¡°You are quite thoughtful. It was indeed not appropriate to invite a doctor into the mansion yesterday.¡±

    Ling¡¯s side would not let go of the opportunity to be a good person and immediately said: ¡°The birthday banquet will be held for three consecutive days. God, I can¡¯t let Ah Hong just endure it like this for three days. I¡¯ll send someone now and quietly invite a doctor.¡±

    ¡°Thank you mother for your concern.¡± Lu Hong politely declined: ¡°However, I¡¯m really much better now, no need for calling a doctor for me.¡±

    When Lu Hong said this, Madam Ling no longer insisted on asking for a doctor, but instead smiled and said, ¡°Ah Hong, you are sixteen this year!¡±

    Why did she suddenly ask his age?

    Lu Hong was a little surprised and replied: ¡°Yes. My birthday is in July, and I will be sixteen in three months.¡±

    Lu Qian didn¡¯t know what to think, and the smile disappeared from his eyes.

    Sure enough, he heard Ling say with a smile: ¡°Speaking of which, you are not too young anymore. It¡¯s time to think about lifelong affairs. Do you have a favorite girl in your heart? If so, you might as well say it and make a marriage arrangement earlier. It doesn¡¯t hurt to get married in two years.¡±

    These words are full of hints.

    It¡¯s just that she didn¡¯t say clearly that she wanted to propose marriage to the Ling family.

    It was like this in the previous life, Lu Hong expressed his intentions, and then the Ling family proposed the marriage to the old lady Ling, and the Ling family accepted the marriage without much hesitation. Everything will come to fruition¡­

    Will Lu Hong still be as honest as he was in his previous life about his feelings for Ling Jingshu?

    Lu Qian raised his heart in his throat and stared at Lu Hong unconsciously.

    Lu Hong was so clever, he can understand what Ling¡¯s words mean. If it was the first two days, he would have been ecstatic and immediately confessed that he liked Ling Jingshu. But yesterday, Ling Jingshu had clearly rejected him¡­

    No matter how much he liked Ling Jingshu, he couldn¡¯t do such a brazen thing.

    Lu Hong gritted his teeth and replied, ¡°I¡¯m really touched that my mother cares so much about my life-long affairs. However, I just want to concentrate on studying now, and I don¡¯t want to get married.¡±

    Such an answer surprised Ling.

    Ling subconsciously glanced at Lu An. Lu An was also surprised and asked

    bluntly: ¡°You don¡¯t like sister Shu?¡±

    Lu Hong: ¡°¡­ ¡°

    1. Such a despicable characte