eunoia | bl | tgcf

Chapter 6: Part Two

Chapter 6
The Third Son and a Beautiful Cloud

Part Two
A portrait and a poem

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Huh?

He hadn't even taken out the talismans yet!

"Wao, gege, you're amazing! You scared all those ghosts away!"

"Thank you for protecting us, Xie Lian."

Xie Lian: "... ... ..."

He really has no words to speak because he himself does not understand what just happened.

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Now that Xie Lian introduced the shrine of the Prince of Xianle, he now has another concern in his heart.

Where shall Yunmei sleep?

There is only a single straw mat in his home and he could share it with San Lang but it would be inappropriate if Yunmei joins them. Hence, he suggested;

"What about you two sleep together and I-"

"No." Was their firm reply, not allowing him to rebut.

"Xie Lian, it is okay." Yunmei rummages in the small bag she brought with her. "I have money. I can buy us one bed each."

"No, no! How can I ask you to buy so much? You shouldn't spend money carelessly. It's fine if you buy one for you to use or for San Lang, too. I'm fine sleeping on the straw mat."

"Xie Lian, what you are saying is no longer being thoughtful but foolish. It is I who is willing to buy things for you, out of my own pocket. Learn to accept what is given out of the willingness of other's hearts." Yunmei holds the crown prince's hands. "Think of it this way, the things I give you are like the offerings for a god, alright?"

Her words are straightforward, just like her personality but they are warm and touching. Xie Lian feels his heart become full and he cannot help but smile brightly. "Okay, I understand." Although he accepted this act of good will, Xie Lian still wonders deep in his heart;

Do I really deserve this?

Once she receives his understanding, she tosses the bag of money to San Lang, who blinks upon catching it. Yunmei points at the curtain and says with a curt tone, "Buy three beds, bedsheets, pillows, blankets, and lamps. Hire some villagers to help you deliver them here. Oh, also buy some ingredients for dinner. The vegetables and meat must be fresh, and do not forget to buy seasonings.

"Do not forget plates and cups as well. Ah, also, purchase tea, any kind will do. Remember all of them, San Lang."

Xie Lian: "..."

San Lang: "... ... ..." You're getting back at me, aren't you, Yun-ge???

...

A tantalizing smell permeates the air. Xie Lian gulps, almost losing composure when he realizes that this must be the smell of the dishes Yunmei cooked. To his surprise, the young lady knows basic survival skills and can even make a mouthwatering dish.

While she cooks, Xie Lian prepares the table, placing three plates, three pairs of chopsticks, and three cups on the table that San Lang bought earlier along with the others. It is smooth to touch, not a single saw dust staining it. Looking at its craftsmanship, the table must have cost quite the sum of money.