第四十二回 云破月来良人避冢妇 莺嗔燕咤娇妾屈家翁 (Chapter 42: The Cloud Breaks and the Moon Emerges, the Gentleman Avoids the Widow; The Oriole Scolds and the Swallow Shrieks, the Concubine Submits to the Patriarch)

It is said that ever since Jin Yanxi parted from Leng Qingqiu that day, he had been deeply concerned.

On this fine and sunny day, Yanxi thought of inviting Leng Qingqiu out for a stroll. However, fearing it might be too presumptuous, he could only call Leng Residence first.

Nanny Han answered the phone and said that Leng Qingqiu was studying and should not be disturbed. Yanxi had no choice but to give up.

Sitting gloomily in his study, he suddenly saw Jin Rong enter to report that the mistress of Leng Residence had sent some gifts. Yanxi looked and saw they were pastries. Delighted, he ordered a return gift.

Thus, through these exchanges, their relationship grew closer day by day.

One day, when Yanxi had some free time, he went to Leng Residence again. He happened to find Leng Qingqiu at home, and the two exchanged some words.

Leng Qingqiu gradually sensed Yanxi's sincerity. Yet, constrained by propriety, she dared not say much. Yanxi took the opportunity to express his admiration. Leng Qingqiu lowered her head in silence.

While they were still talking, they suddenly heard someone approaching from outside. They had to part hastily.

After returning home, Yanxi pondered how to advance further.

Little did he know that at home, Aunt Cui and Peifang were quarreling over trivial matters, creating an uproar.

Yanxi, vexed, could only steer clear.

Meanwhile, Leng Qingqiu also pondered. She felt affection for Yanxi, yet feared their social standings were mismatched. Her heart was torn with conflict.

Suddenly hearing her mother call her, she had to set aside her thoughts and go help her mother with chores.

Thus: The cloud breaks and the moon emerges, the gentleman avoids the widow; The oriole scolds and the swallow shrieks, the concubine submits to the patriarch.