Explore Chapter 71 of 'The Story of the Golden Powder Family' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
Since his encounter with Leng Qingqiu on Falling Flowers Lane, Jin Yanxi had been unable to banish her from his thoughts. On this day, under the pretext of a poetry club gathering, he hosted a banquet at his new residence, inviting Mrs. Leng, Song Runqing, and Leng Qingqiu to attend. During the feast, Yanxi deliberately arranged for Leng Qingqiu's seat to be adjacent to his own, to facilitate their acquaintance.
After three rounds of wine, Yanxi raised his cup in a toast to the guests, though his gaze frequently drifted toward Leng Qingqiu. Dressed in a pale blue cheongsam, she appeared elegantly demure, her delicate charm enhanced by the lamplight. Secretly pleased, Yanxi found an opportunity to converse with her on poetry, calligraphy, and painting. As Leng Qingqiu responded with fluency and grace, Yanxi's admiration for her deepened.
During the banquet, Song Runqing proposed playing drinking games. Seizing the chance, Yanxi displayed his literary prowess, succeeding in every round to the astonishment of all present. Leng Qingqiu also participated, occasionally offering clever lines, which Yanxi lavishly praised. A subtle understanding passed between them through exchanged glances, fostering a tacit accord. Mrs. Leng, observing Yanxi's proper conduct and sincere words, developed a favorable impression.
As night deepened and the guests gradually dispersed, Yanxi asked Leng Qingqiu to remain a moment longer, ostensibly to seek her advice on poetic techniques, though his true intent was to express his feelings. Perceptive as she was, Leng Qingqiu had long discerned his meaning but demurred, responding with composed indifference. Impatient, Yanxi drew from his sleeve a handkerchief embroidered with patterns of longing and offered it to her, saying, "This kerchief is a renowned embroidery from Jiangnan, a token for one who understands." Leng Qingqiu declined, but Yanxi gently pressed it into her hand. Their fingers brushed; a blush tinged her cheeks, and she made a hurried departure.
Upon returning home, Leng Qingqiu unfolded the handkerchief and examined it closely. Seeing the characters "Yanxi" embroidered in the corner, her heart skipped a beat. When Mrs. Leng inquired about the banquet, Leng Qingqiu gave only vague replies, secretly concealing the handkerchief beneath her pillow. Sleep proved elusive that night. Yanxi, too, tossed and turned, pondering how to advance further toward matrimony.
The next day, Yanxi sent an invitation for Leng Qingqiu to join him for a garden stroll. Leng Qingqiu hesitated, but Song Runqing added her encouragement, and Mrs. Leng, convinced of Yanxi's sincerity, granted permission. Henceforth, their meetings grew more frequent, a secret affection budding between them, awaiting only the propitious moment to join their lives as one.