Feng Wushuang burst into laughter.
Already extremely handsome and charming, that perfectly timed smile was indeed heart-stirring.
But not to Yun Jinnian.
"Thank you, Fourth Miss!"
"There’s no need for formality, Mr. Feng. In fact, I should be thanking you for yielding the private room at Huiquan Tower to me that day, and for also helping my three half-sisters go to Xiaocheng Mountain, then escorting them home!"
"It was but a small effort; Fourth Miss, you should not take it to heart!"
Yun Jinnian laughed, "Mr. Feng, let’s not continue with this back and forth of thanks. In a few days, after I return to the Capital City, I will visit your residence!"
After chatting for a while, Yun Jinnian left.
Feng Wushuang watched Yun Jinnian as he walked away, smiling again.
Even though they hadn’t exchanged many words, he was quite satisfied; he had to attend court and couldn’t linger at Huguo Temple.
As he left and bid farewell to Yun Jinnian, on his way down the mountain, he encountered Dai Hanmi and Dai Hanbo, accompanied by maids and servants, climbing uphill.
He didn’t know Dai Hanmi, but he recognized Dai Hanbo.
The two greeted each other, one descending and the others, Dai Hanmi and Dai Hanbo’s party, continued upwards.
"Third Brother, was that Scholar Feng just now?"
"He is so handsome. If I didn’t know his past, I wouldn’t see any difference between him and those noble young masters from the Capital!" Dai Hanmi said, lifting her skirt to climb further.
"He is no simple man!" Dai Hanbo remarked.
"I’m aware. Such a person, appearing so gentle and gracious – his mind is full of schemes!" said Dai Hanmi, glancing back at the bearers, Minxian, and the young servant.
Taking a deep breath, she continued upward.
"Perhaps you should ride in the sedan chair," suggested Dai Hanbo.
"No need. Since we’re here to pray for our grandmother’s well-being, sincerity is a must. If I can’t endure this little hardship, then what sincerity is there to speak of!" said Dai Hanmi, continuing to climb with her skirt hoisted up.
Dai Hanbo, holding an umbrella, nodded, "Yes, let’s go together!"
By the time the two reached Huguo Temple, it had grown completely dark.
The Little Monk arranged the Zen quarters, prepared hot water, ginger soup, and vegetarian meals. After the siblings had eaten,
Dai Hanmi then said, "Third Brother, should I go see Jinnian? It’s been quite some time since I last saw her!"
"If you want to go, then go. Ask the Little Monk where her Zen quarters are, and I’ll take you there!"
The two shared an understanding.
After calling the Little Monk over and inquiring, they learned of Yun Jinnian’s quarters. The Little Monk led the way, with the siblings following at a leisurely pace.
"Third Brother, Huguo Temple is really vast!"
"Third Brother, do you think Jinnian will be surprised to see us?"
"I think so too. I’m looking forward to seeing Jinnian!"
Although she had an older sister, her sister had married early, and she only remembered her sister being very affectionate, extremely so.
But she yearned for a younger sister, one she could dote on...
And just then, Yun Jinnian appeared, saving her grandmother.
For various reasons, Yun Jinnian became her sworn sister and also her dear younger sister.
When Hemei saw Dai Hanmi, she was visibly taken aback, then smiled, "Miss Dai, your grandmother has come!"
"Where is your Miss?" asked Dai Hanmi.
"The Miss went out for a walk. Miss Dai, please come inside and wait; I’ll have Henuan go find the Miss!" Hemei said, then signaled to Henuan, who immediately went out.
Dai Hanmi was quite astonished, "Is she out alone?"
"The Miss won’t go far!"
As Hemei spoke, she brewed tea for Dai Hanmi and Dai Hanbo, "Miss Dai, Master Dai, please enjoy your tea."
Yet Dai Hanbo felt perplexed.
Yun Jinnian’s maids, who usually followed her every step, were not present, which was very strange...