Одна улыбка может обрушить город

Глава 61

Seeing that Grand Commandant Yang had spoken so vehemently, Madam Jiang had no choice but to reluctantly leave to discuss the matter with the old lady. Hearing this, Yang Huan knew he had succeeded in his unreasonable demands. He hastily kowtowed to his father, suppressing his joy, and left the study with a meek and submissive expression. Once outside, he dashed off to report the good news to Xu Shirong.

Upon hearing Jiang's report, the old lady, though reluctant, ultimately succumbed to the imperial decree, fearing her grandson might become stubborn and, if impeached by the watchful censors, cause further trouble. She could only sigh and nod in agreement, inwardly blaming the Yang family ancestors for producing such a rebellious grandson. She then discussed with Jiang who should accompany him to serve him. Granny Sun was usually reliable, but her advanced age made it difficult to send her away from home. Granny Sun volunteered to go and care for the newborn prince, then return to report the good news to the old lady. The old lady was somewhat relieved and selected three of her trusted maids, along with Xiao Die, making a total of four to go. The manpower was thus settled. Meanwhile, Jiang returned and meticulously prepared additional nourishing foods. Fearing that the Xu family would say they were harsh for even sending a pregnant daughter-in-law away, Madam Jiang specifically sought out Xu Shirong and subtly brought up the topic. Xu Shirong suppressed a laugh and replied that if her mother asked, she should only say that she wanted to go with them. Seeing that she knew how to handle people, Madam Jiang was genuinely pleased. She carefully gave her instructions on how to take good care of herself before sending someone to inform the Xu family.

That night, as usual, Sun's mother made her bed and slept in Xu Shirong's room. Yang Huan thought to himself, "I can't do anything to you here, but you can't do anything to me in Qingmen County." So he left happily without any complaints and slept until dawn.

Chapter Seventy-Six

The next day was the day of preparations for departure. Having received the message the day before, Madam Xu could no longer restrain herself, disregarding the potential disrespect from others, and rushed over early in the morning to visit. Sure enough, there was a hint of complaint in her words. Xu Shirong hurriedly offered a few words of advice, as she had promised Jiang Shi the day before. Seeing that she couldn't persuade her to stay, Madam Xu reconsidered. While it was good for her daughter to stay in the capital, with only her son-in-law away, he might cause trouble with his gluttony, and Jiang Shi might even take the opportunity to add more women to his household. Now that her daughter was going with him, although the journey would be more arduous, she could keep an eye on her husband, and judging from the Yang family's current attitude, they didn't seem to intend to add any more women. Thinking this way, she felt somewhat relieved, repeatedly reminding Xu Shirong to be careful, before hurriedly returning home to deliver the tonics, medicines, and small clothes she had prepared earlier.

When Madam Jiang learned that her daughter-in-law was pregnant, her initial plan was to keep her in the capital to await the birth. She remembered that the girl she had bought earlier, Qingyu, had followed her there for so long without any sign of pregnancy. She secretly asked Xiaodie, who said Qingyu was an extremely honest person. Fearing that Qingyu might not be able to control her son, she had indeed considered taking this opportunity to put another person in her son's room. However, after Yang Huan's outburst, that thought naturally faded.

After a flurry of activity, everything was finally loaded onto the boat, and the people were put aboard. After saying goodbye, the boat headed east along the Bian River. All sorts of food and supplies on board were carefully prepared. For Xu Shirong alone, there were olives, salted and sour honey-fried snacks, coconut strips, and raisins, all individually packaged in jars for easy access.

Yang Huan was finally able to bring Xu Shirong back to Qingmen as he wished, and he was naturally delighted. He had already been reprimanded by Madam Jiang and knew that it was not a good time to cause trouble, so he stayed by Xu Shirong's side during the day, and when Granny Sun told him to sleep in another cabin at night, although he was somewhat unwilling, he obeyed.

The waterway was undoubtedly smoother than the land route, but it was slower. Fortunately, the wind was favorable, and the weather cooperated, so it was only about ten days slower than the usual land route. After traveling for nearly a month and a half, the group finally entered Tongzhou Prefecture and disembarked.

Xu Shirong had been in good health throughout the journey, and thanks to her good mood, aside from some seasickness and morning sickness in the first few days, her appetite had improved as the trip progressed. Now around four months pregnant, it wasn't very noticeable through her clothes, but she could feel a slight bulge in her waist and lower abdomen. She recalled that when they left, it was still chilly spring, and now it was late spring/early summer. And when they left, who could have imagined the road ahead would be so winding? If it weren't for their unwavering resolve, how could they have returned hand in hand so smoothly? A wave of emotion washed over her, and she felt that the two of them were closer than before.

Yang Huan was pleased to see that they were almost at Qingmen County. Fearing that Xu Shirong might have suffered from the bumpy road, without needing Sun Mama's reminder, he instructed the driver to travel slowly on level ground, while he rode his horse alongside the carriage. That evening, they found an inn and lodged there early. After traveling for several more days, they finally arrived at Qingmen County without disturbing anyone. By the time they entered the county government office, it was already dark.

County Magistrate Mu had been promoted and had returned early along with several other yamen runners who had escorted the "auspicious omens" to the capital. They were still in the county, partly to await the arrival of the new magistrate and to hand over their duties, and partly out of gratitude, wanting to thank Yang Huan before taking their leave. Therefore, the cooks and other servants in the yamen had all heard the news and had been eagerly awaiting the couple's return. Seeing them unexpectedly was a delightful surprise. Fortunately, they had prepared beforehand, and the house was cleaned and dusted daily, so after a brief flurry of activity, everything was settled. Although the group hadn't rushed their journey, the road was never as comfortable as home. After a meal, they all felt somewhat tired and went to bed early, the night passing uneventfully.

Only then did Xiao Que realize that her mistress was pregnant. Overjoyed, she waited outside the door early the next morning. After Xu Shirong got up, Granny Sun went to the kitchen to oversee the preparation of breakfast. As she combed Xu Shirong's hair, she said happily, "I was wondering why I saw Granny Sun, who served the old lady of the manor, come over last night. It turns out that Madam is pregnant. This time, she will definitely give birth to a handsome little boy. When we go back home, he can run around after the second master's Xi Jie and Qing Ge. It will be so lively!"

Xu Shirong smiled, recalling the last time she was taken back to the Grand Commandant's residence. She hadn't stayed for more than a few days. Although she hadn't seen her uncle and aunt from the second branch of the South Courtyard because they weren't at the residence, their two older children would often come to play in front of her, and they were very close to Yang Huan. In just over half a year, she felt that the two boys seemed to have grown quite a bit taller. In another six months, when she gave birth, she wondered if it would be a boy or a girl, and if the child would resemble her more or Yang Huan more. Thinking this, a smile unconsciously appeared on her face.

Little Sparrow, completely oblivious, continued, "This is wonderful. It will shatter the dreams of those who only dream of climbing up the social ladder! They don't even realize that if it weren't for Madam's pity, they wouldn't be living such a comfortable life today. Instead of thinking about how to repay her, she's done something shameless! She seems so quiet all the time, but it turns out her thoughts behind the scenes are so despicable!"

Seeing the resentment on her face, Xu Shirong knew she was cursing Qingyu. She herself had thought about Qingyu on the way home. Initially, she felt a bit uneasy about it, but after believing Yang Huan and realizing that Qingyu wasn't her choice, that unease had long since dissipated. Remembering she hadn't seen her when she returned last night, she asked about her.

Xiao Que snorted and said, "Why is Madam asking her? If I were her, I would have hanged myself long ago to save myself from making a fool of myself."

Xu Shirong gently tapped Xiao Que's forehead, and she said aggrievedly, "Ever since she did that, she's been cooped up in her room and hardly ever goes out. She probably knows she's too ashamed to face anyone, so how could she dare to come to you?"

Xu Shirong glanced at Xiao Que and said, "It must be that you, girl, said some nasty things to her, right?"

Xiao Que blushed slightly when she was right. Although she stopped talking, her face still showed her dissatisfaction.

Xu Shirong smiled slightly, said nothing more, and when she had a moment, went to Qingyu's room. She used to live there with Xiaodie, but some time ago Xiaodie was taken back, so she lived alone. When she returned last night, Xiaodie had been settled elsewhere, and Qingyu was still alone in that room.

When Xu Shirong went in, she saw Qingyu sitting alone in front of the small window, lost in thought. When she heard the noise and turned around, she was also surprised. In just a few months, Qingyu's face had become so thin that it could be covered by a palm.

Qingyu saw Xu Shirong and was somewhat flustered. She stood up, knelt down in front of her, and kowtowed, saying, "I heard last night that Madam had returned. I did not go to pay my respects. Please forgive me, Madam."

Xu Shirong woke her up and carefully examined her complexion. She noticed that not only did she look listless, but her eyes had also lost their former sparkle, appearing lifeless. After a moment's thought, she asked, "Qingyu, tell me honestly, did you actually do *that* thing when you got into Lord Yang's bed that day?"

Qingyu's face flushed red and then turned pale, and she lowered her head and remained silent for a long time.

Xu Shirong smiled and said, "Lord Yang told me that he knew nothing about it, and I believe him. Although you came here with the title of concubine, you are actually an innocent girl. Given this situation, I want to hear your side of the story so that you don't bear the blame for nothing."

Tears welled up in Qingyu's eyes, but she bit her lip and remained silent.

Xu Shirong said, "Even if you don't say it, I already know a little about it. Xu Jinrong himself mentioned it to me, talking about your younger brother."

Qingyu's eyes widened suddenly, and she said in a trembling voice, "Madam..."

Xu Shirong sighed and said, "It's better if you don't want to talk about it. After what happened, I know you wouldn't be able to live a good life even if you stayed here. I specifically asked my mother-in-law for your indenture from that day, and I'll return it to you now. From now on, you can make your own way in life. Since Xu Jinrong brought your brother back, I'll give you some capital so you can find your brother to live with. What happens next depends on your own fate. As for Xu Jinrong, you can rest assured. Although he's a villain, I don't think he's completely despicable. I'll have someone pass on a message to him, telling him not to cause any more trouble for you and your brother."

Qingyu knelt down again with a thud, kowtowing repeatedly, saying, "Thank you, Madam, thank you, Madam..."

Xu Shirong laughed and said, "I'm glad you don't blame me for being heartless when I kicked you out like this. Why thank me? Actually, I should thank you. If it weren't for your scolding that day, my simpleton might not have known to come looking for me for a long time."

Qingyu blushed and lowered her head, remaining silent.

Xu Shirong stood there for a while, feeling a heaviness in her waist. Seeing that she had finished speaking, she turned and left. At the door, she heard Qingyu whisper behind her, "Madam… that night, someone took me to a neighboring county and brought me into the magistrate's residence. I went into Lord Yang's room and sat there the whole time. Only when dawn was approaching did I take off my clothes and lie down. Lord Yang hasn't woken up yet. There was nothing between us…"

Xu Shirong nodded and smiled, then pushed open the door and went out. Xiao Que, who was waiting outside, hurriedly stepped forward to support her, muttering discontentedly as she walked out, "I've never seen Madam so gentle. I didn't hear a single scolding from her all day. If it were me, I would have kicked her out with a stick long ago."

Seeing her chattering, Xu Shirong suddenly remembered Yang Huan mentioning his feelings for Erbao on the way, and smiled, "Don't meddle in other people's business. Now that something has happened to you, you'd better make up your mind quickly." Seeing Xiao Que's blank expression, she leaned close to her ear and whispered something. Xiao Que was both ashamed and angry, her face turning bright red. After a long pause, she said fiercely, "If Madam says I have to do this, I'll close my eyes and obey him. But if Madam decides for me, he can forget about it!"

Seeing her like this, Xu Shirong suddenly recalled the time she saw her delivering snacks to Shi An by the seawall, and a sense of realization dawned on her. However, Shi An would likely be transferred soon, and she hadn't noticed any particular interest in her before. It seemed the young girl's feelings were going to be wasted. She sighed, patted her hair, and smiled, "I'll follow your own decision. A good girl like you, whoever marries you will be blessed with good fortune."

Upon hearing this, Little Sparrow happily helped him back into the house.

Yang Huan returned to Qingmen County and devoted himself entirely to the seawall. After about ten days, he finally had some free time. Once he had some free time, he couldn't resist the urge to seduce Xu Shirong. However, Granny Sun was a stubborn woman. No matter what he tried, she remained unmoved, sleeping in Xu Shirong's room every night to wait on her. He couldn't get a single chance to steal her away. The more he couldn't have her, the more frustrated he became, and he inevitably went to her several times. Finally, he felt unsatisfied and missed her terribly. He felt that even doing nothing but holding her and smelling her scent would be enough. He shamelessly approached Granny Sun several times to beg, but each time she refused him, leaving him fuming and helpless. He thought to himself that he had previously thought that returning to Qingmen County meant he had everything under control, but Granny Sun was actually a powerful and influential woman who had repeatedly thwarted his plans. After feeling down for a while, Xu Shirong overheard him mentioning that it would be Sun Mama's birthday in a few days. He said that Sun Mama had been taking good care of him these past few days and asked what kind of gift he should give her. Reminded of this, Xu Shirong suddenly came up with an idea. Overjoyed, he hugged Xu Shirong and showered her with kisses, leaving her completely bewildered. She didn't know why he was so happy about Sun Mama's birthday.

Chapter Seventy-Seven

Xu Shirong asked him a question, but seeing that he only smiled and didn't answer, she didn't press him further. They discussed setting up a few tables of wine in the backyard of the county government office on that day, inviting everyone in the family to join in the festivities, and giving her a silver medal; she would surely be pleased to receive such respect. Yang Huan readily agreed, nodding in agreement.

Before long, it was Granny Sun's birthday. That evening, without even the cook lifting a finger, they ordered fine wine and food from Spider Tower. The women sat at one table in the courtyard, and the men at another, with a musical troupe playing instruments and singing. Granny Sun was invited to the seat of honor, and everyone, from the cook Xiao Que to Xiang'er, took turns offering their birthday wishes, creating a lively atmosphere. Even Yang Huan and his wife, Xu Shirong, came over to give her a half-bow, reciting their blessings. Granny Sun repeatedly said she didn't deserve it and tried to return the gesture, but Yang Huan stopped her, saying, "Granny Sun has worked so hard, even Grandmother respected her greatly in the past. Now, after so much hard work, on her birthday, you deserve only a half-bow from us. We are truly unworthy. Let us toast Granny Sun, wishing you abundant blessings, longevity, and endless peace." He then raised his cup in gratitude.

Seeing that the young master had given her so much face today, Madam Sun was both comforted and delighted. There was no reason for her not to drink, so she accepted the cup and downed it in one gulp. Xu Shirong also went up to offer a toast, and Madam Sun happily accepted and drank as well. Yang Huan then said to the remaining people, "Today is Madam Sun's special day. Everyone must make sure she's happy. Let's all have a good time! There's plenty of food and drink."

As soon as he finished speaking, everyone cheered and, beaming with joy, rushed to feed her wine and serve her food. Those at Erbao's table outside, though unable to come in, loudly toasted her from behind the door. Having lived most of her life, this was the first time Mama Sun had felt so dignified. Overjoyed, her face flushed, she accepted all the toasts offered, gulping down the wine. Before long, her speech became somewhat slurred.

Xu Shirong sat with her for a while, noticing that Madam Sun was already somewhat drunk. Little Sparrow was still trying to get her to drink, and just as she was about to speak up to stop her, Yang Huan quietly squeezed her hand. Xu Shirong was startled, turned to look at him, and saw Yang Huan smiling and whispering, "That wine is so sweet. If she drinks too much, we can just let her get a good night's sleep. Why are you stopping her? Don't spoil the fun. You must be tired; let me take you back to your room." He then helped her up.

Seeing the strange glint in his eyes as he smiled, Xu Shirong suddenly understood. Seeing the large crowd around her, she didn't know what to say and could only get up and follow him. The group behind her, seeing that both family heads had left, became even more unrestrained.

Yang Huan carefully helped Xu Shirong to her room and sat her down. He personally fetched water for her to wash her face. Once everything was settled, he locked the door, jumped onto her bed, hugged her tightly, and kissed her passionately a few times. He said triumphantly, "Let's see how she tries to drive me away tonight!"

Xu Shirong laughed and punched him lightly, but he grabbed her hand and rubbed it against his face a few times before letting out a long sigh and saying, "I've forgotten when we last slept together. Tonight, you'd better let me hold you as much as I want." As he spoke, he pulled her towards him with his arm around her shoulder.

Xu Shirong exclaimed and used her arm to push him away, saying, "Be careful. Don't press on my stomach."