Chapter 72: 居心叵測【修】 (1)
Sinister Intentions (1)
Part 1
Hearing the old elderly maid readily agree to her request, the First Lady’s earlier irritation instantly dissipated. She then closed her eyes wearily, her complexion looking somewhat haggard.
Seeing her like this, the old nurse stood silently by, not daring to speak. Having served her mistress for so long, she knew her heart’s burden well—the mistress must have been thinking of the eldest master again. But what man didn’t crave novelty? Especially one like the eldest master. Thinking of this, the old nurse dared not speak. Such matters were not for a mere servant to discuss. Even if her mistress was exceptionally kind-hearted, it was still not her place to utter such words.
Completely unaware of the thoughts swirling within those around her, the First Lady narrowed her eyes. Ji Ling’s defiant expression from moments ago was impossible to forget. Seeing him speak with such righteous indignation, she found herself wondering if, should he one day take another concubine himself, he would recall how solemnly he had sworn his vows to her. This thought only strengthened her conviction that such a day would come. She looked forward to it with eager anticipation.
Unaware of the schemes brewing within the room, Ji Ling returned directly to his own courtyard after leaving. He thought of the game he’d played with Tang Xiaobao earlier today, looking forward to another round before dinner. Only when he reached the corner did he pause briefly, then lifted his foot and walked on as if he hadn’t noticed anything.
Shortly after Ji Ling departed, a head peeked around the corner—a young maid, judging by her appearance. She stared warily in the direction Ji Ling had gone, her expression tinged with apprehension. Only after confirming the coast was clear did she pat her chest, visibly shaken.
“The young miss told me to follow the Third Young Master until he came out. Does that mean I’ve completed my task now?”
The maid scratched her head, recalling her mistress’s instructions. Convinced her assumption was correct, she cheerfully returned to her miss. After all, fulfilling her duty and reporting back was the right thing to do.
After the maid departed, Ji Ling suddenly appeared from somewhere, her expression sour as she watched the receding figure. She pondered for a moment but ultimately chose not to pursue the matter further.
Returning to her miss’s quarters, Sang Jiayi had been seated there waiting for some time. Upon seeing the maid enter, she instructed her to be let in. The maid curtsied the moment she entered. After Sang Jiayi waved off the formalities, she spoke directly, “The young miss was right. After she left, the First Lady sent someone to fetch Third Young Master Ji. Fearing being discovered, I hid carefully outside until Young Master Ji arrived. I intended to follow discreetly, but unexpectedly, he somehow noticed me. To evade him, I had no choice but to let him depart.”
Sang Jiayi nodded at the maid’s account, then asked calmly, “What expression did he wear when he came out?” ”
Recalling her miss’s question, the maid paused briefly before replying, “Young Master Ji seemed expressionless, but I sensed he appeared to breathe a sigh of relief.” After finishing, the maid cautiously glanced at her miss. She noticed her mood had soured considerably, appearing distinctly displeased.
Sang Jiayi didn’t give the maid a hard time; she merely waved her hand, dismissing her. She had chosen this particular maid precisely because of her keen sensitivity to people’s emotions. Now it seemed Ji Ling had refused her aunt. At this realization, Sang Jiayi found herself unable to pinpoint her own feelings. It wasn’t quite anger, nor could it be called joy.
Having witnessed the Ji family’s opulence, she now had no desire whatsoever to return home. Setting aside her wretched father and the unknown hardships awaiting her there, even the Ji family’s wealth was undeniably tempting—not just to her, but to her father as well. Had Tang Xiaobao not been in the picture, Ji Ling truly would have been the best choice. But now it seemed she needed to make other plans. She wondered who else among the Ji family’s eligible young masters, besides Ji Ling, might be suitable. Yet as these thoughts swirled, Sang Jiayi’s expression remained detached, her demeanor seemingly indifferent. Her own clan had proven unambitious; if she sought a promising future, she would have to forge it herself.
After pondering for a moment, she summoned her most astute maid and gave her detailed instructions. Only after the maid fully understood her meaning did she dismiss her. After the maid had left, a fleeting look of sorrow crossed Sang Jiayi’s face. She murmured softly:”This between one person to another person, truly can’t be compared.”
Ji Ling made her way back to his courtyard. Upon entering, he immediately spotted someone sitting there, seemingly unmoved since his departure. His heart melted instantly. Smiling, he approached, “Been sitting here this whole time?”
Tang Xiaobao’s eyes immediately sparkled with delight at Ji Ling’s return. He rose and approached his side, saying, “After you left, I felt terribly bored and didn’t want to do anything. So I just sat here waiting for you.”
Ji Ling was deeply touched by Tang Xiaobao’s words, though his expression still carried a hint of disapproval. Glancing at the maid Lühe, who had been quietly attending to him behind him, he said softly, “If you ever feel bored, just ask Lühe to take you out for a walk. After all, this entire area falls under the jurisdiction of the Ji Manor. No one would dare cause trouble for you.”
Tang Xiaobao listened to Ji Ling speak, clearly paying no heed to his words. His gaze remained fixed on Ji Ling, as if his eyes could hold nothing but him.
Observing Tang Xiaobao’s expression, Ji Ling clearly relished the attention. He reached up to ruffle the boy’s hair and murmured, “I’m free today. How about I accompany you to the kitchen to make some pastries?” He made no mention of why the First Lady had summoned him earlier. Tang Xiaobao, clearly delighted by the suggestion, simply nodded at Ji Ling’s words before cheerfully leading him to his kitchen.
Originally, Tang Xiaobao hadn’t planned to make any pastries today. But since Ji Ling had suggested it, he might as well grant her wish. If this were the modern era, he might even add a little playful fun to the mix. But now… At that thought, Tang Xiaobao’s face flushed. He banished those chaotic thoughts from his mind and focused on leading the way.
Ji Ling was clearly accustomed to Tang Xiaobao’s ever-changing expressions. Watching him now, he even found it somewhat endearing. The two walked toward the kitchen, one ahead and one behind, followed by a string of maids and servants.
Only after entering the kitchen with Tang Xiaobao did Ji Ling properly examine this place she had never visited before. In his previous impressions, kitchens were always chaotic, with filth piled in the corners. Yet, whether because this kitchen belonged to Tang Xiaobao or not, it now appeared remarkably bright. Everything was neatly arranged, even somewhat pleasing to the eye.
Upon entering, Tang Xiaobao immediately thought: While Ji Ling and he couldn’t engage in kitchen play, they could still share the joy of cooking together. After pondering, he decided to make the simplest dish—small buns. He grabbed the flour, waved at Ji Ling, and cheerfully proposed, “How about we make buns today?”
“Hn.” Seeing Tang Xiaobao’s smiling face, Ji Ling felt it was only natural to go along with whatever he said. Just as he was about to step over, Tang Xiaobao pulled out a small cloth pouch, opened it, and took out a piece of fabric that looked somewhat oddly shaped. He then proceeded to tie the thing, which had several fabric strips attached, around Ji Ling’s neck. Ji Ling stared at the thing wrapped around his body, feeling rather puzzled. But when he saw Tang Xiaobao put on an identical one himself, he didn’t say anything more.
After putting on the apron, Tang Xiaobao bent down and rolled up the cuffs of both Ji Ling’s sleeves, to prevent him from getting his clothes dirty while cooking. Tang Xiaobao worked with such concentration that he missed Ji Ling’s gaze, lowered and fixed on him, filled with tenderness. He even mused about perhaps sewing cuffs onto the sleeves later—it would make cooking neater. But this world lacked elastic bands or such things; making and wearing something like that would likely prove quite troublesome.
Ji Ling stared at the cowlick of Tang Xiaobao’s head, momentarily feeling as though they’d been married for years. Even without vast estates or great wealth, this simple moment felt profoundly warm. But just as he was lost in thought, Tang Xiaobao had already finished dressing Ji Ling. He then stepped back a few paces, taking in the rather pleasing sight or appearance. He then returned to the dough-kneading station and said to Ji Ling, “Let’s knead the dough first. We’ll tackle the meat filling later.”
Ji Ling nodded, stepping beside him. He watched Tang Xiaobao’s movements and clumsily tried to imitate them. Tang Xiaobao worked on his own while casually instructing Ji Ling. Watching his clumsy attempts, he couldn’t help but chuckle, a hint of smugness in his voice. “I thought you knew how to do everything. Turns out there are still some things you don’t know how to do.”
Facing Tang Xiaobao, who grinned like a sly little fox, Ji Ling reluctantly accepted the fact that he wasn’t as capable as he’d imagined. But he soon proved through action that his clumsiness stemmed solely from inexperience. Once he got the hang of it, his movements quickly became deft and precise.
Tang Xiaobao watched the dough take shape swiftly in Ji Ling’s hands, then glanced at him with unmistakable surprise—and a hint of envy.
Kneading the dough with practiced ease, Ji Ling couldn’t help but glance at Tang Xiaobao’s expression. Seeing his delighted look, he felt a surge of happiness.
The two spent the entire afternoon in the kitchen. Even the servants nearby were perceptive enough not to disturb their time together.
Ever since that day when Sang Jiayi learned Ji Ling had rejected her aunt’s proposal, she had been pondering her next move.
Naturally, I could stay here under my aunt’s name, but it would always be an illegitimate arrangement. What will I do when I grow old?
Even Sang Jiayi, usually so composed, couldn’t help but feel a growing restlessness.
The young maid who attended Sang Jiayi, however, was utterly devoted. Seeing her mistress’s gloomy demeanor, she cautiously suggested, “Miss, perhaps you should take a stroll in the garden. It might lift your spirits.” She feared her miss might become ill from brooding indoors. With this thought, her encouragement grew more earnest. “Miss, we rarely see other young masters or ladies here. Perhaps you might meet one or two out there.”
Upon hearing her maid’s words, Sang Jiayi pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement. Having recently arrived at this household, she was treated with deference by the servants simply because she was the niece of the main lady of the house. Yet her aunt struggled to bear children, and the remaining daughters had all married off in succession just a short while ago. The remaining ones were of insufficient status. Even those who had met her briefly upon her arrival out of deference to her aunt’s position had since ceased all contact. As for the second branch of the family, she knew nothing at all. Thus, all the news she received came from her maids’ inquiries, and she was grateful for their sharp wits. Reflecting on this, Sang Jiayi felt torn between relief and melancholy.
Resolved, she instructed her maid to select a long gown—simple yet not shabby, subtly accentuating her graceful figure. Once she was fully dressed and groomed, Sang Jiayi led her maid toward the estate’s garden. Along the way, the servants all recognized her as the niece of the newly arrived First Lady of the Ji household and bowed respectfully.
Arriving at the garden where the flower festival had been held, she observed the flowers, now less vibrant than on that day. A steady smile remained on Sang Jiayi’s face. The garden was quite large, and at this hour, it was uncertain if anyone else remained within. After a moment’s consideration, Sang Jiayi decided to find a spot in the pavilion where the flower festival had been held. From there, she would be able to see anyone passing by at a glance.
With this thought, she led her maid toward the pavilion she remembered, which wasn’t particularly remote. But as soon as she caught sight of its outline, she saw the young man seated within. Judging by the pomp surrounding him, he appeared to be the young master of the Ji family.
After a moment’s thought, she recognized the man’s identity. Just as she hesitated whether to approach, the young man seemed to notice him. After a brief pause, he broke into a smile. That smile carried a certain charm, and even his tone held a hint of roguishness that was almost imperceptible. “You must be the young lady from the Sang family. Since we’ve met, why not come right over? There are no other outsiders here anyway.”
Hearing his casual dismissal of her as an outsider, Sang Jiayi felt amused, though she kept her expression neutral. After a moment’s thought, she lifted her step and walked over. Looking at the young man before her, even though she didn’t recognize him, she addressed him politely: “I wonder which branch of the family you belong to, Brother? Jiayi seems to have never met you before.”
Upon hearing the woman before him state her name, Ji Tao knew his guess had been correct. He discreetly observed her for a moment, noting that even if she wasn’t his aunt’s niece, she was undeniably a striking woman. Not wanting his rudeness to cause her to misinterpret his intentions, Ji Tao smiled at her and said, “It’s only natural you wouldn’t know me, Sang Mei Mei. I’m from the second branch. My name is Ji Tao.”
After exchanging introductions, they settled into the pavilion. Attendants nearby, ever observant, poured them cups of tea before quietly withdrawing to stand guard nearby.
Sipping the expensive tea in his cup, Ji Tao remarked casually, “I wonder what brings Sister Sang here?”
Sang Jiayi observed the man elegantly sipping his tea before her. Comparing him to the intelligence she’d received, she sensed a slight discrepancy. Yet she concealed her thoughts, her lips curving into a gentle smile as she murmured softly, “Since coming here, I didn’t want to trouble my aunt constantly. Feeling bored in my quarters, I thought I’d take a stroll. Never imagined I’d encounter the Fourth Brother here—quite a surprise.”
Gazing at Sang Jiayi’s face, Ji Tao thought: Even setting aside her status, marrying her for her own sake would be a worthwhile endeavor. After all, she was a beauty ah.
He looked at her, his smile broad and hearty, and said, “If Sister Sang doesn’t mind, I’ll take you out exploring another day. Having grown up here, I know all the fun spots—I promise you won’t be bored.”
Sang Jiayi didn’t know what he meant by those words. She pondered them silently for a moment, but ultimately decided not to mention how Ji Ling and the others had already taken her to numerous places. Given the current situation, she wasn’t sure whether she should agree or not.
Seeing the conflicted expression on Sang Jiayi’s face, Ji Tao instantly grasped what was troubling her. After a moment’s thought, he said softly, “Don’t worry. If you feel uncomfortable, I’ll invite others to join us. That way, even if others find out, they won’t gossip about it.”
“No, Fourth Brother, you misunderstand. It’s just that I’ve only just arrived here and haven’t finished exploring the Ji family courtyard yet, so…”
Hearing Ji Tao’s words, Sang Jiayi’s face flushed with embarrassment. She tried to explain herself, her gaze so soft it seemed it might melt into water. Her smile remained as gentle as ever. The tone of her voice still felt incredibly soothing, like a cool breeze on a summer day, calming him completely.
For a moment, Ji Tao stared at her blankly. This woman before him seemed different from any he’d encountered before, even stirring a desire to cherish her. As this thought took root, a surge of lust ignited within him. If he could claim this woman as his own, what kind of scene would unfold in bed? The more he thought about it, the more excited he became.
Originally, when he heard his uncle intended to hand over the position of family head to Ji Ling and force him to marry this woman, his heart had been filled with rage. Later, dark thoughts had crept in—what exactly was he lacking compared to that sickly weakling? Why did his uncle entertain such notions the moment that man’s health improved? He had even vowed silently that he would seize both the woman and the position of family head.
After Sang Jiayi finished speaking, she saw Ji Tao staring straight at her, lost in thought. The expression in his eyes made her feel slightly uneasy. But soon, Ji Tao broke into a smile again, appearing cheerful and bright, as if the earlier gloom had been nothing but a figment of Sang Jiayi’s imagination. The man before her laughed, seemingly unconcerned by her refusal, and continued, “If Sister Sang doesn’t mind, there are several places within this estate quite suitable for leisurely strolls. As the master of this house, I’d be honored to show you around.”
Seeing that refusal was futile, Sang Jiayi hesitated before accepting. Instantly, she witnessed the man across from her flash an even brighter smile, one that seemed almost foolishly earnest. Yet Sang Jiayi’s mind raced with speculation. What was this man’s scheme? If she couldn’t refuse later, she’d feign illness—he couldn’t possibly examine her personally. She knew little of the second branch’s affairs, and this man presented a perfect opening.
Each harboring their own hidden motives, they conversed with surprising ease and shared a pleasant rapport.
Throughout their conversation, Ji Tao found himself growing increasingly fond of the woman before him. He thought her not only beautiful, but her temperament perfectly suited his tastes. Seeing her gaze at him with such warmth, he recalled his status as the Ji family’s legitimate heir—the future clan leader was undoubtedly destined to be him. Licking his lips, he found himself saying without thinking: “Sister Sang, do you think I could be your ideal husband?”
The words had barely left his mouth when Sang Jiayi across from him froze. It suddenly dawned on her what had been causing that persistent sense of unease all along. She looked at the man before her with suspicion, uncertainly asking, “Fourth Brother, did you say something wrong?”
Gazing at Sang Jiayi’s exquisite features, Ji Tao spoke with surprising directness. His eyes held a hint of earnestness as he declared earnestly, “Sister Sang, I mean every word. I hope you’ll consider it.”
Upon hearing Ji Tao repeat her words again with such earnestness, Sang Jiayi immediately glanced nervously to either side. Fortunately, she had dismissed the servants earlier since no attendants were needed here; they likely hadn’t overheard. The thought of how others might perceive her if they’d overheard those words, this instantly extinguished any lingering goodwill toward the man before her. Her gaze turned icy as she spoke, enunciating each word deliberately:
“Fourth Brother, when you made those flippant remarks, did you ever consider how they might affect me? I feel unwell and must retire now.”
With that, she hurriedly departed with her maid, her steps so hasty it seemed as though something was chasing her.
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?