With a slight smile, he gripped Han Xuzi’s hand tightly, "Because Grandfather will never let me fall!"
"You, child, sure see things clearly!"
Yun Jinnian laughed as well.
Both knew that, after this time, there would be no more chances to hold hands.
Yun Jinnian would not be so bold.
Han Xuzi was concerned that Yun Jinnian had grown up and was a young lady now, and being seen by others would cause gossip.
Han Xuzi called softly, and Yun Jinnian responded in a gentle voice.
"No matter what you do, Grandfather will not stop you, but Grandfather hopes you can discern people’s hearts, see clearly the good and the bad, and not be used by those with ulterior motives. One mustn’t harbor the intent to harm others, but one should never be without the precaution of guarding oneself. If someone wants to harm you, you mustn’t be soft-hearted!"
Yun Jinnian’s eyes reddened slightly.
No one told her these things in her dreams, there was only the exploitation and grinding down by the Yun Family, and in the end, she didn’t even know how to resist.
Resentment and hatred turned into indifference as calm as water, rippleless and undisturbed.
With Chu Liange’s appearance, at one moment she thought a divine being had descended to rescue her. She was overjoyed and sincerely welcoming, only to end up with such a fate.
Her limbs severed, tongue plucked out, her clever and lively son turned into an imbecile who eventually, horrifically, consumed her flesh.
"Grandfather, I understand and will also keep in mind your teachings!"
Han Xuzi rubbed Yun Jinnian’s head, "Over at Zhuangyong Marquis Residence, Grandfather will visit every few days from now on. We’ll just tell others Grandfather is going for a medical consultation, and you can run errands to deliver medicine!"
Yun Jinnian did not understand.
"The innocent man is guilty of the crime of possessing a precious gem. Jinnian, wait a few years, and you’ll understand!"
Yun Jinnian remained silent.
No matter what Grandfather meant, she would listen, "I’ll heed Grandfather’s advice!"
"Come, tell Grandfather about old Madame Dai’s illness, and let Grandfather give you some advice!"
"Hmm, the old Madame has been poisoned for many years, and this time the poison flared up because she was agitated, which, coupled with immense grief and anger, led to the attack. She also got too worked up, resulting in a stroke that paralyzed her!"
"Do you have a way to heal her?" Han Xuzi asked.
"First, the poison must be treated, then acupuncture to clear her meridians. Let the old Madame sit up first, then gradually help her to walk. She is actually quite fortunate. Although she has forgotten many people and many things, her speech is clear and articulate. Even if she can’t be completely cured, she can be healed to a good degree, about seventy to eighty percent!"
Yun Jinnian spoke confidently, with sound reason and evidence.
"Your future accomplishments will certainly surpass Grandfather’s!"
Receiving Grandfather’s praises, Yun Jinnian felt happy inside, lowered her head and pursed her lips, revealing a slight smile.
Han Xuzi watched, feeling both joy and admiration.
This child, even when happy, smiles so modestly, unassuming and not arrogant. She always thinks before she acts—who could truly outwit her?
Upon learning that Dai Hanmi had sent an invitation, Yun Jinnian was momentarily astonished, but understanding why Dai Hanmi was coming, she did not dwell on it and went to discuss with Mrs. Han how to receive Dai Hanmi.
This was the first time she would have a friend come to visit her.
Yun Jinnian did not say it aloud, but her heart was full of joy and anticipation. So she attended to the details with Mrs. Han meticulously, even preparing the return gift by hand well in advance.
A bottle of Detoxification Pills and a bottle of Beautifying Pills, taken from Han Xuzi’s pharmacy with his approval.
Yun Jinnian also took two hairpins that Han Xuzi had someone bring for her from Jiangnan and a bottle of rouge.
She placed them in a brocade box early, waiting to give them to Dai Hanmi the next day.
With friends coming to visit, her heart was filled with joy.
Sharing a bed with Mrs. Han at night, Yun Jinnian awoke several times, feeling warm and cozy. With curved lips and a soft smile, her eyes sparkled brightly.