Chapter 20: The Carriage

Mrs. Xue held her hand tightly, refusing to let go, feigning annoyance. “Are you perhaps dissatisfied with the bracelet I’ve given you?”

“No, not at all. It’s just that the gift is too precious. And…”

“And what? Don’t tell me you dislike me?” Mrs. Xue pressed.

“Of course not. I would never dare. Mrs. Xue, you are so distinguished; to receive a gift from you is more than I could ever hope for. But truly, this bracelet is far too valuable.” Liuy Chu Yan glanced toward Lady Han, seeking rescue, but the old lady merely stared thoughtfully at the bracelet.

Seeing she still wouldn’t accept, Mrs. Xue grew slightly displeased, her mouth drawn tight. “Girl, since you’ve called me Aunt, you can certainly accept this bracelet. Don’t keep refusing—it’s unsightly. Look, everyone is watching; those who don’t understand might think I am forcing my warmth on a cold shoulder.”

With Mrs. Xue’s words so insistent, Liuy Chu Yan could not be too tactless. Reluctantly, she loosened her grip, letting the jade bracelet settle securely on her wrist.

“This bracelet is of excellent quality and the design is rather intricate—is it made in the palace?” Second Lady Han, eager to flatter Mrs. Xue, spoke with envy.

Mrs. Xue brightened instantly. “Indeed, this bracelet was bestowed by the Emperor. I am particularly fond of jade, so when His Majesty heard, he granted me several pairs.”

“So it’s an imperial gift?” First Lady Han exclaimed in surprise.

“Today, I feel a particular affinity with Chu Yan, so I’m giving her one. Next time, I’ll present even finer ones.” Mrs. Xue, recognizing the tinge of jealousy in First Lady Han’s tone, smiled mischievously, further provoking her.

In truth, both the eldest and second daughters of the Han family were related to the Duke of Xing’s household, and had met Mrs. Xue several times. Yet, she had never shown them such courtesy as she did to Liuy Chu Yan. First Lady Han, recalling Chu Yan’s background and supposed poor conduct, wondered how she could warrant such favor. Her smile grew cold, her tone sardonic. “Everyone knows our family’s cousin is the cleverest and most precious; our old lady dotes on her so much that even my daughters, Shu Yi and Shu Die, fail to win her affection. Today is your first meeting, and already Mrs. Xue regards Chu Yan with such esteem and gifts her a bracelet. Yet, Chu Yan is inexperienced and dares not accept such a gift. Next time, don’t let people laugh at you.”

First Lady Han’s words were clearly meant to embarrass Chu Yan, her manner affected. Though she was an elder, this was the General’s residence, and Chu Yan could not endure such treatment, lest others look down on her further. Bowing respectfully, she replied, “The old lady does indeed care for me, but I would never dare claim to be ‘precious.’ Everyone knows First Lady Han’s noble birth and how her words and actions exemplify generosity and love. I am clumsy, often incurring her displeasure. Today, I am grateful for Mrs. Xue’s praise.” Though her words sounded proper, those who knew the situation realized Chu Yan was speaking ironically. Distant guests couldn’t hear, but those close by chuckled behind their hands.

First Lady Han realized those nearby were laughing at her; though her words could withstand scrutiny, she sensed something amiss, but having said them, she could only force a smile. “Mrs. Xue, listen to her—such sweet words, truly charming. I like her too.”

Mrs. Xue narrowed her eyes and nodded, but was already somewhat displeased. Chu Yan’s reply showed little respect for First Lady Han; she feared Chu Yan might treat her similarly, and if they were to live under the same roof, it would not bode well. Yet, upon reflection and considering the rumors she’d heard, Chu Yan’s reaction was understandable—after all, First Lady Han had failed to show her dignity before so many, resenting her prominence over the other Han girls. She was indeed blind to the situation. Thus, Chu Yan proved to be outwardly gentle but inwardly strong—not easily subdued.

Through the carved screen, Mrs. Xue glanced at her own son. He was already of age, but due to his elder brother’s unmarried status, things had dragged on. This girl, with her temperament, would suit Xue Ao well—one outwardly gentle, the other tough, each complementing the other. She’d heard that Xue Ao and Chu Yan had met twice and exchanged a few words, and he’d mentioned her several times afterward. Though she didn’t know what the brothers discussed, few girls ever caught Xue Ao’s attention. Since Xue Tan’s mobility was limited, it was Xue Ao who would inherit and uphold the Duke of Xing’s glory; he needed a capable wife.

Chu Yan’s background matched a sickly man whom no other woman would marry; it was somewhat regrettable, but she was an orphan, while Xue Tan was the Duke of Xing and favored by the Emperor. It was a lofty match for her. As for Xue Ao, perhaps he could wed a princess or a noble lady—that would be ideal.

Chu Yan was unaware of Mrs. Xue’s musings, only sensing her bright, calculating gaze, fingers pinching as if weighing her worth—much like the merchants she’d grown up among, appraising goods. Indeed, she hailed from a merchant family, so shrewdness was expected. Yet this gaze was even more blatant than Xue Ao’s; she could scarcely endure it, lowering her head in embarrassment.

“Mother, why do you keep staring at Sister Chu Yan? She’s getting shy,” Second Miss Xue Huai Yu giggled, hugging her mother’s arm and acting coquettishly, helping Chu Yan out of her predicament.

Chu Yan raised her head slightly, sending a grateful glance.

“Mother, since you’re so fond of her, why not invite her to visit our home tomorrow?” Eldest Miss Xue Huai Jin pressed herself close to Mrs. Xue, eagerly suggesting, “I just spoke with Sister Shu Jing—she mentioned Chu Yan’s needlework is superb. I’m planning to make a robe for my second brother for his birthday but haven’t settled on a design. I’d love to consult her.”

Mrs. Xue looked up at her daughter, who winked back, then smiled calmly and turned to Lady Han. “Aunt, did you hear? My two girls are so taken with Chu Yan, lamenting they didn’t meet her sooner, wishing to take her home. My son Xue Ao’s birthday is approaching, and the sisters are anxious about his gift. Please allow me to borrow Chu Yan for a few days so they can play together.”

“Mrs. Xue’s invitation is an honor; how could I refuse? It’s just, Chu Yan hasn’t seen much of the world, and I fear she might inadvertently offend you,” Lady Han protested, but Mrs. Xue offered several kind words, and soon the two were amicably arranging for Chu Yan and Han Shu Wei to visit the Duke of Xing’s residence in a few days.

Mrs. Xue, having achieved her aim, exchanged a few polite words with Lady Han and returned to her seat, thoroughly satisfied.

At last, some peace. Chu Yan discreetly pressed her temple, only to notice the surrounding guests watching her with complicated expressions. She had drawn much attention today—first with her poetry, then Miss Guan Ju’s invitation, followed by Mrs. Xue’s gift, and now the Xue sisters inviting her to their home. Her prominence must have overshadowed even the birthday hostess.

Fortunately, General Liu and Miss Guan Ju seemed unconcerned—only Miss Guan Ju fretted that, if Chu Yan was invited to the Xue residence, it would be harder for her to visit the General’s mansion. She clung to Chu Yan for quite a while.

Finally, Master Li Du spoke up, saying he and his wife were fond of Chu Yan and would certainly permit Miss Guan Ju to visit her, which settled the matter.

After that, Chu Yan quietly lowered her gaze, determined not to attract further notice.

Seeing her so docile and reserved, most guests withdrew their inquisitive gazes. Only a few girls, usually close to the Xue sisters but neglected today, continued to watch her.

The birthday banquet proceeded: half an hour of wine, another half hour of performances, then half an hour of conversation in the flower hall. After various sundry matters, two hours had passed. By mid-afternoon, guests began to depart, and the ladies of the Duke of Wu Kang’s household bid their farewells and boarded their carriages.

As usual, Chu Yan sat with Lady Han, attended by Song Ling and Yun Ling. The two madams and the third and fourth young ladies shared another carriage, with their maids and attendants in a separate one following behind. Three carriages from the Duke of Wu Kang’s household rolled out.

Lady Han plainly brooded over the events at the banquet; though Mrs. Xue had been cordial, she sensed ulterior motives. She glanced at Chu Yan, wanting to ask something but unsure where to begin, so she closed her eyes helplessly.

Chu Yan herself was deep in thought, not noticing Lady Han’s expression.

The carriage left the General’s mansion and took a stretch of cobblestone road. Occasionally, a stone would jut up, causing the carriage to bump and sway. Suddenly, there was a dull thud from beneath, and the carriage stopped abruptly.

The coachman hurried down, bent to inspect, and exclaimed, “It’s broken!” Looking up, he met Yun Ling’s curious gaze from the lifted curtain, his expression anxious. “Miss Yun Ling, the wheel is damaged; we can’t go any further.”

“Is it just a short distance? Can’t you manage a bit more?” Yun Ling pressed.

“No, the axle pin has come loose. If we continue, the entire carriage bottom might collapse.”

“How could this happen? Didn’t you check before leaving? If it was broken, you should have fixed it earlier. Now you panic only after it fails on the road?” Song Ling stepped outside and scolded the coachman.

The coachman didn’t argue; he knew the fault was his, and his wages would be docked. Further words were useless.

Chu Yan pulled Song Ling back. “Let it be. Carriages breaking down happens often enough. Let’s see what we can do. The other carriage is already full with the madams and young ladies, and Lady Han can’t ride with the servants. You two hurry back to the manor and ask them to send a proper carriage. We’ll wait here for a while.”

The coachman, relieved, sent two people back for a replacement.

Second Lady Han had already alighted, learning the situation with difficulty. Had she known, she would have arranged four carriages; now, with only three, they couldn’t squeeze everyone in, and Lady Han was left stranded.

“What’s happened?” As the group fretted, a carriage sped up behind them; Mrs. Xue had sent someone to lift the curtain and inquire.

“Mrs. Xue,” Second Lady Han greeted with a smile, “unfortunately, our old lady’s carriage wheel is broken. We only brought three carriages today, so we must send for another.”

“Oh dear, we can’t let Aunt be stranded in the middle of the road. Why not ride in our carriage?” Mrs. Xue suggested, leaving no room for refusal. “We brought several carriages—one for me, one for the girls, and another for the young master. He was detained by General Liu and will be sent home later; his carriage is empty. So Aunt can walk a few steps and ride in the young master’s carriage.”

Second Lady Han hesitated, glancing at Chu Yan through the lifted curtain.

Chu Yan dismounted and approached Second Lady Han, greeting Mrs. Xue. “Mrs. Xue, I’ve sent for a carriage; it will be here soon. Thank you for your concern.”

Mrs. Xue’s face grew stern. “You’re still calling me Mrs. Xue?”

Seeing her genuinely upset, Chu Yan curtsied. “Aunt, I was being too formal. Please don’t take offense.”

With her apology, Mrs. Xue’s expression brightened. “That’s better. Aunt knows you’re considerate and didn’t want to trouble me. But the Duke of Wu Kang’s residence is still three streets away, and harnessing a carriage takes time. You can’t leave Lady Han waiting here for so long. The wind is strong today; beware of catching a chill. I’ve heard she suffers from headaches, so you must be careful. Ride in the young master’s carriage.”

Chu Yan still hesitated, but recalling Lady Han’s headaches, she wavered.

Mrs. Xue, seated in her own carriage, patted her thigh. “If I didn’t have matters at home, I’d escort you myself. But since you refuse my carriage, I insist. If you keep declining, I’ll carry Aunt back myself!”

“How could I trouble you, Aunt…” Chu Yan began, accidentally calling her ‘Mrs. Xue’ again, earning a glare and quickly correcting herself.

First Lady Han, not wanting to take responsibility, left the matter to Second Lady Han and Chu Yan. Still, as the household matron, she couldn’t let Second Lady Han overstep. Moreover, she disliked lingering on the roadside, fearing loss of face, and came over leisurely. “Mrs. Xue is so considerate; we are truly grateful. Next time, we’ll personally visit the Duke of Xing’s residence to thank you.”

“First Lady Han is too polite,” Mrs. Xue nodded. “Then it’s settled.”

Second Lady Han was actually willing; this road was busy, and it would be embarrassing for the Duke of Wu Kang’s household to be seen in such a predicament. But it was, after all, the Duke of Xing’s carriage. If it accompanied them home, the young master would have to retrieve it, causing further trouble.

Mrs. Xue noticed Second Lady Han’s concern, understood her hesitance, and leaned from the window to wave behind her. “Ao, follow them and escort Aunt home to the Duke of Wu Kang’s residence. If time permits, fetch the young master from the General’s mansion.”

Chu Yan followed her gaze and saw Xue Ao riding a horse at the rear. The black-maned horse snorted impatiently and flicked its tail, matching its master’s dour expression—a pair truly made for each other.