Time passed like a blink of an eye, and spring quickly came to an end, with the weather becoming increasingly hot.
The small restaurant's daily income was around one or two silver coins. The introduction of the delivery service had indeed increased their earnings. Although many other shops tried to imitate it, it did not affect the restaurant's income. In addition to that, Ji Wan'er would adjust the recipes in the shop according to the customers' preferences every month.
Where there is a will, there is a way. Ji Wan'er was that determined person.
She diligently managed the restaurant, ensuring that the food tasted great and the service was excellent. As a result, more and more people came, and the income kept increasing.
As for the hot pot restaurant, it was even more successful. Despite another hot pot restaurant opening in the county, it couldn't snatch away their business. After all, Ji Wan'er's hot pot base had an undeniable flavor. Only she knew the secret recipe, and others were clueless. Because she used various spices, others couldn't replicate it.
However, the weather was getting hotter now.
Hot pot is all about that steaming sensation, which is fine during winter when it feels warm, but it becomes quite challenging to enjoy in the summer. After all, people are wearing thick clothes, and sweating profusely, so who has the mood to eat?
These past few days, Ji Wan'er noticed that the increase in earnings was not as significant as before.
Although the weather had just started to heat up, if this continued into the summer, the income in the shop would undoubtedly suffer a significant blow. This was something she didn't want to see.
The most effective way to cool down would be air conditioning and electric fans, but unfortunately, they didn't have them. They had to come up with their own solution.
Ice cubes, although expensive, could still be afforded given the current sales volume.
However, ice cubes alone were far from enough to provide sufficient cooling.
In the following days, Ji Wan'er searched the market for existing fans.
Based on the available fans, she also recalled some pictures she had seen in her past life and created water fans. The water would help the fans rotate while utilizing its cool temperature to lower the indoor temperature.
At the same time, she placed a lot of ice cubes in the room.
As a result, the temperature dropped instantly. If it was cool outside, they would use fewer ice cubes, but if it was hot, they would use more.
As soon as customers walked in, they felt a cool breeze.
Ji Wan'er didn't hesitate to spend money. With a generous amount of ice cubes and the innovative water fans, their income not only did not decrease but also increased.
Seeing this, Ji Wan'er also installed the same devices in the adjacent room. However, it wasn't as hot during meals there, so they temporarily didn't put any ice cubes. Ji Wan'er thought they could add them later when it got hotter.
Not only did the diners feel the heat, but Xiao Qingming also felt hot when studying at night. Ji Wan'er placed some ice cubes in the room to cool it down.
Although the temperature dropped while studying, at night, in the quiet darkness, certain things still made one break into a sweat.
Afterward, Ji Wan'er was so tired that she couldn't even lift her arms. She lay flat on the bed and complained in a hoarse voice, "Husband, aren't you tired from studying lately? How do you still have so much energy?"
"It's fine," Xiao Qingming replied indifferently.
In the darkness, Xiao Qingming stared at the ceiling, lost in his thoughts.
Hearing these nonchalant words, Ji Wan'er suddenly felt a sense of imbalance in her heart. She was already exhausted and couldn't move, but now she couldn't help but turn her face towards Xiao Qingming. Her hands were also restless, reaching out to pinch him.
She couldn't be the only one exhausted while he was enjoying himself, right?
"Ah!" Xiao Qingming couldn't help but exclaim in surprise for a moment.
Hearing Xiao Qingming's cry, Ji Wan'er felt somewhat satisfied and couldn't resist pinching him again. However, this time, she applied less force than before.
This time, Xiao Qingming didn't react.
Ji Wan'er felt that she had pinched him lightly, so she exerted force again.
But after pinching him a few times, she felt that her strength was stronger than at the beginning, yet Xiao Qingming still didn't react.
Just as she hesitated, her entire body was flipped over, and Xiao Qingming followed suit.
Xiao Qingming grabbed Ji Wan'er's hands and placed them beside the pillow, then lowered his head and gently kissed Ji Wan'er's lips. Leaning close to her ear, he whispered, "Attempting to murder your husband?"
Ji Wan'er's voice remained hoarse as she retorted, "Who... who tried to murder you?"
This posture left her feeling a bit at a loss.
Xiao Qingming was becoming more and more unruly.
"You're so shameless!"
"Oh." Xiao Qingming didn't argue, he simply responded indifferently. While his hands didn't move, he firmly imprisoned her, but his lips were not behaving.
"You... you... stop..." Ji Wan'er realized that he was about to continue and voiced her rejection. However, her body's response couldn't deceive anyone. She couldn't help but blush and her heart raced as she followed him into temptation.
"Blame it on your beauty, my dear wife. I can't stay serious."
Ji Wan'er: ...Blame her?
After that, she didn't have time to think anymore as the intermittent sounds filled the room again.
Later, Ji Wan'er lay on the pillow, trying to calm her emotions. She regretted her actions just now. She had intended to "take revenge," but instead, she was the one who fell into a trap.
Xiao Qingming, on the other hand, was quite satisfied, stroking Ji Wan'er's back with his hand.
The next morning, Ji Wan'er woke up late.
In contrast, Xiao Qingming had already gotten up early and gone to the academy. It was said that he was in a refreshed state, without any sign of fatigue.
Ji Wan'er felt discomfort in her body, and she was filled with anger.
She counted the silver notes she had saved, feeling slightly relieved. Currently, she had combined the income from the shop with Xiao Qingming's income, and the total sum of their household assets amounted to over five hundred taels. She exchanged one hundred taels for silver notes and hid them away, leaving only some small silver coins and copper coins for daily expenses.
Although five hundred taels was a considerable amount in the county, it was still insignificant compared to the capital.
They needed to save up more assets.
Their monthly income was now over one hundred taels, and this month it would reach about one hundred and fifty taels, but it was still far from enough.
After observing for half a month, Ji Wan'er started to change the menu again at the beginning of the next month. This time, she added many cold dishes. After all, the weather had become hot, and cold dishes were refreshing and appetizing. Some of these cold dishes were local specialties, while others were Ji Wan'er's own creations.
As soon as the cold dishes were listed on the menu, many customers ordered them on the same day.
As for the hot pot restaurant, they added fruit platters and chilled fruit juices.
The chilled fruit juices became incredibly popular.
Eating hot and spicy hot pot and then taking a sip of refreshing and tangy chilled plum soup or watermelon juice felt extremely pleasant. Within just a few days, the daily sales of chilled fruit juices reached fifty. For those high-spending customers who reached one hundred wen, Ji Wan'er directly served them the fruit juice.
During the evenings when Xiao Qingming was studying, Ji Wan'er would also prepare some chilled fruit juice for him.
August's autumn examination was approaching, and now it was already July. Xiao Qingming had to go to the capital in advance to prepare for the exam. There were only a few days left until he left for the capital.
In addition to the fruit juice, she also prepared many brain-boosting and nourishing foods for Xiao Qingming.
During the evenings, they tried not to make any noise or disturb him while he was studying. Not only Ji Wan'er, but Yun Shuang and Zi An would immediately return to their rooms when they saw their brother return and wouldn't come out again.
The whole family was nervous about Xiao Qingming's upcoming examination.
However, Xiao Qingming himself didn't seem as nervous.
After finishing his book, Xiao Qingming stretched his neck and went to take a bath. When he returned, he blew out the oil lamp and skillfully got into bed.
As soon as he got into bed, he embraced Ji Wan'er, who was lying on the inner side, and felt reassured by her scent.
He had originally planned to close his eyes and sleep, but the movement of the arm around his waist let him know that the person in his arms was still awake.
"Why haven't you slept yet?" Xiao Qingming asked softly. At the same time, he lifted his hand to tuck Ji Wan'er's hair behind her ear.
"I can't sleep without holding you." Ji Wan'er snuggled into his embrace, acting spoiled.
Ji Wan'er didn't intend to come into Xiao Qingming's embrace. She wanted to keep her distance from him and not disturb him. However, she found that she couldn't sleep peacefully unless she was in Xiao Qingming's embrace.
With Ji Wan'er being so proactive and Xiao Qingming unable to resist, there was no need to hold back.
Just as Ji Wan'er was beginning to feel drowsy, she was awakened by someone.
Sensing Xiao Qingming's intentions, she immediately thought of refusing, but unfortunately, Xiao Qingming didn't give her the chance.
This wasn't right. She didn't want to disturb Xiao Qingming, but how did she end up disturbing him in the end?
Ji Wan'er regretted it. If she had known, she would have stayed by the wall instead of coming over.
After another bath, looking at Xiao Qingming, who had worked so hard, Ji Wan'er firmly said, "Husband, let's sleep separately tomorrow."
Immediately, Xiao Qingming's face darkened, and he bluntly refused, "Don't even think about it!"
"But... sleeping together will disturb you."
"Worrying too much, my dear."
"Oh."
In the following days, Xiao Qingming remained the same. Ji Wan'er tried to avoid him a few times, but since she couldn't convince him, she stopped hiding and let him be.
Half a month later, Xiao Qingming packed his belongings and money, and set off for the capital to take the exam.
This time, Xiao Qingming didn't go alone. Ji Dazhong and A Yuan also went with him.
It was Nanny Dong's idea.
The autumn examination was not an ordinary test. The exam duration was longer, and it required a lot of physical energy. The candidates had to stay in the capital, and they couldn't be without someone to take care of them. Ji Dazhong, although honest and loyal, was not foolish. After all, he had spent decades in the capital. A Yuan was more flexible and could run errands.
Xiao Qingming didn't refuse Nanny Dong's kindness and accepted it gladly.
During these two months, they saved a lot of money at home. Ji Wan'er gave Xiao Qingming two hundred taels of silver notes to take with him. When they were about to leave, she also gave Ji Dazhong one hundred taels, just in case.
Once Xiao Qingming left, Ji Wan'er became gloomy and lacked motivation in everything she did.
At night, she tossed and turned in bed, unable to fall asleep. Even when she did, she dreamt of Xiao Qingming. Sometimes she worried that he would be robbed on the way, and other times she worried that he wouldn't find accommodation and be deceived.
It wasn't until Nanny Dong came to comfort her that she felt a little relieved.
Yes, Xiao Qingming was not a fool. How could he be deceived? On the contrary, he was very clever. The book had said that he would become a powerful figure in the future. Judging from the events of the past year, Xiao Qingming indeed had the potential to become a powerful figure.
Thinking like this, Ji Wan'er shifted her focus back to the two shops.
The hot pot restaurant had already added three private rooms, and more and more people were coming. The restaurant had limited space, so they could only add two more tables. Any more than that, and it would feel overcrowded.
Ji Wan'er didn't originally plan to expand the shops further, but considering the time when Xiao Qingming would pass the examination next year (which should be in the spring), there were still seven months remaining. Currently, both of her shops were stable, and there wasn't much for her to do. Lately, she had been restless and couldn't resist opening another shop to distract herself.
Nanny Dong agreed with her daughter opening another shop. She had long wanted to suggest opening a branch store or finding a larger location. After all, her daughter's craftsmanship was excellent, and the shop was running well. Opening another branch would allow them to earn more money.
Next, Ji Wan'er had something to do. She was busy with the new shop every day until late at night, and she no longer constantly thought about Xiao Qingming.
Since they had already opened one restaurant before, setting up this new one was much simpler. They followed the same pattern. By the end of July, Ji Wan'er had opened the new shop.
When a new shop opens, there are naturally some discounts. The previous old shop also had discounts.
Ji Wan'er was running between both shops, incredibly busy. Fortunately, in less than half a month, the daily income reached 500 wen. The old shop used to earn up to two and a half taels of silver, but with the opening of the new shop, many customers near the new shop had gone there, resulting in a slight decrease in income to just over two taels per day.
However, when combined, the overall income was higher than when they had only one shop before.
Ji Wan'er was busy here and had put her heart and soul into the shops.
It was not until one day when Ji Wan'er closed the door of the new shop and went home with Yun Shuang that she realized there was an extra person in the house.
"Husband, you're back!" Ji Wan'er was pleasantly surprised. "Why did you come back so soon? Did you finish the exam?"
She thought to herself that he must not have finished the exam and came back home to visit, planning to leave again tomorrow.
Xiao Qingming: ...
His father-in-law intended to come back in a few days since he looked tired and haggard. However, when he thought about his delicate and affectionate wife at home, he couldn't help but want to rush back immediately. So after resting for only a couple of days and slightly recovering, he returned.
He had initially thought that without him, his wife would have a hard time, unable to eat or sleep well, and would cry every day.
Little did he know, his wife wasn't as he had imagined.
"Today is already the end of August, and I have finished the exam," Xiao Qingming restrained his discomfort and gently reminded her.
"Oh, right, it's the end of the month. Look at me, I just finished my work," Ji Wan'er said, patting her forehead.
A while ago, she had even counted on her fingers to calculate when Xiao Qingming would return. These past few days, with the increase in customer flow at the new shop, she had been busy with its affairs and had forgotten about this important matter.
After speaking, she looked at Xiao Qingming's well-defined cheeks and realized she had said the wrong thing.
How could she forget such an important matter as Xiao Qingming's exam? She blamed herself for this, blamed herself.
"Husband, look at you, you've become thin. These days, I'll cook some delicious food to nourish you well," Ji Wan'er said.
"Mm," Xiao Qingming pursed his lips. It was evident that he was pleased with her words just now.
"Have you eaten dinner? I'll cook you a bowl of noodles," Ji Wan'er suggested.
"Okay."
"Then go freshen up first, and I'll prepare it in a moment."
"Mm."
After Xiao Qingming finished bathing, he stood at the entrance of the kitchen.
Looking at her busy figure inside, he suddenly wished time could stand still at this moment.
He pondered, what is a home after all? It's nothing but her. Wherever his wife is, that's where home is.
Just then, Ji Wan'er turned around and looked at Xiao Qingming.
"You're done showering? The noodles are ready, they just need a moment to cool down. Please have a seat first."
"Mm."
Xiao Qingming took steps towards Ji Wan'er and embraced her from behind.
It had been over a month since they last saw each other, and with Xiao Qingming suddenly approaching, Ji Wan'er trembled all over. This feeling was truly long-awaited.
During such a heartwarming moment, as she thought about herself being busy in the kitchen of the restaurant all day, covered in the smell of oil and smoke, Ji Wan'er wanted to avoid him.
However, Xiao Qingming's grip was too strong, and she couldn't escape at all.
This heartless man!
"I've only been gone for a little over a month, and you've already forgotten about me?" Xiao Qingming complained.
Upon hearing his words, Ji Wan'er hurriedly said, "How could that be? I think of you and miss you every single day."
Unfortunately, some people's words don't match their actions. Even though she said that, Ji Wan'er still tried to hide away.
"Why are you trying to avoid me?" Xiao Qingming didn't want to guess and directly asked.
Ji Wan'er's face showed an embarrassed expression, and she weakly said, "I've been in the kitchen all day, covered in the smell of oil and smoke. I didn't want to bother you with the fumes."
Upon hearing that, Xiao Qingming forcefully sniffed Ji Wan'er's scent and said, "I think my wife smells really good."
Ji Wan'er: ...
Even she couldn't stand the smell on herself.
Looking at the pot in front of her, Ji Wan'er timely changed the subject, "My husband, the noodles are forming clumps. Why don't we eat the noodles first?"
Xiao Qingming glanced at her and let go of her.
Seeing Xiao Qingming release his grip, Ji Wan'er breathed a sigh of relief.
Xiao Qingming was indeed hungry. He ate two large bowls of noodles in one breath, along with two fried eggs, a plate of beef, and two leftover steamed buns from lunch.
After finishing the meal, Xiao Qingming prepared to rest in his room.
Ji Wan'er saw him eat so much and said, "My husband, don't rush to sleep. Move around a bit, or you might get indigestion."
Xiao Qingming gave her a deep look and said, "I won't get indigestion."
Ji Wan'er didn't understand, but she felt that Xiao Qingming's gaze held some profound meaning. However, when she noticed the dark circles under Xiao Qingming's eyes, she didn't insist any further.
He must be tired from all the activities outside. Well, let him rest well today.
After Xiao Qingming left, Ji Wan'er finished tidying up the kitchen and went to take a bath.
When she returned, she found Xiao Qingming already lying in bed, motionless.
Ji Wan'er climbed onto the bed quietly and obediently lay on the inner side. She had a lot on her mind that she wanted to say to Xiao Qingming, but since he was already asleep, she didn't want to disturb him and decided to wait until the next day.
However, just as she settled down, the person beside her moved closer.
She had just opened her mouth when her words were swallowed.
After a while, Ji Wan'er finally managed to speak.
"Wait... Wait, I... I have something to tell you."
Xiao Qingming didn't stop his movements and hoarsely replied, "Hmm, go ahead, my wife. I'll stretch a bit to prevent indigestion."
Ji Wan'er: ...
After a long pause, Xiao Qingming turned to his side, picked up Ji Wan'er's hair, and sniffed it, wearing a satisfied expression on his face.
As if he had just remembered Ji Wan'er's words, he asked, "What did my wife want to say just now?"
Ji Wan'er: ...
She had nothing to say.
Early the next morning, Ji Wan'er felt sore all over her body.
Looking at Xiao Qingming still asleep beside her, she had originally planned to tease him. However, seeing the fatigue on his face and his slightly thinner cheeks, she couldn't bear to do it.
She leaned down and gently kissed his dry lips before getting out of bed.
When Xiao Qingming returned, Ji Wan'er's attention was no longer fully focused on the shop. She briefly visited a few shops in the afternoon and then came back.
Xiao Qingming had slept for a long time, only waking up around noon.
Seeing Xiao Qingming looking exhausted, Ji Wan'er couldn't understand how he had been so energetic the previous night.
As Xiao Qingming glanced over, Ji Wan'er's face flushed, and she said, "What do you want to eat? I'll make it for you."
"Anything will do."
There were many ready-made dishes in the kitchen, so Ji Wan'er selected a few for Xiao Qingming and also prepared a large bowl of egg soup, which she brought over.
Xiao Qingming still had a good appetite.
If others didn't know, they would probably think he had suffered and been mistreated for the past month, starving for a whole month.
After eating to his heart's content and feeling drowsy, Xiao Qingming pulled Ji Wan'er onto the bed to sleep together.
The next morning, Xiao Qingming started reading again, while Ji Wan'er went busy herself in the shop.
By evening, Nanny Dong and her family came over.
Upon arriving at the shop, Nanny Dong followed and busied herself for a while. When it was time to close, she asked, "Where's your husband? Why haven't I seen him? Is he still asleep?"
These past two days, she had heard from the men in her family that her son-in-law had a particularly tough time with the exam. When they went to the imperial examination hall to pick him up, his legs were so weak that he needed the support of his father and Ah Yuan to get on the carriage.
She heard that her son-in-law was considered lucky; many people fainted right after coming out.
Her son-in-law's health wasn't great, so they rested for two days, and then he was anxious to return home.
When they brought him here, although her son-in-law seemed to be in good spirits, his body wasn't in great shape, appearing weak.
"No, he stayed at home and studied all day today," Ji Wan'er explained.
Hearing her daughter's words, Nanny Dong was extremely surprised. He had just returned from the capital after taking the exam, and now he was already studying again.
"How is his health?" Nanny Dong asked.
Thinking about Xiao Qingming's performance these past few days, Ji Wan'er's face slightly flushed, her gaze shifting as she casually said, "He's doing fine."
Nanny Dong didn't know what her daughter was thinking and thought that she wasn't taking her husband's health seriously. She quickly said, "Your father told me that they had a particularly tough time with the exam, and many people fainted. They've been resting at home for a few days, but haven't fully recovered. You should take good care of your husband these days."
Take care of Xiao Qingming's health?
He didn't seem weak and in need of care.
Ji Wan'er picked up the fan nearby and fanned herself.
"The weather has cooled down today, and the wind is strong at night. Be careful not to catch a cold," Nanny Dong advised her daughter.
Ji Wan'er cleared her throat and said, "I understand, Mother."
"You!" Nanny Dong scolded.
Afraid that Nanny Dong would say something else, Ji Wan'er quickly said, "Don't worry, Mother. I'll remember. By the way, what should we eat today? You mentioned that the weather has cooled down, so how about having hot pot? We have plenty of meat at home, which would be perfect for replenishing my husband and Father. Huaijing will be taking the exam next year, so he should also have some nourishment."
"Okay, let's do as you say."
During the meal, Nanny Dong was very considerate and didn't bring up the topic of the exam. She just kept urging Xiao Qingming to eat more meat.
Observing Nanny Dong's enthusiastic demeanor, Ji Wan'er thought to herself that it wasn't her husband who needed physical replenishment, but rather, it was her.
As if sensing her thoughts, Xiao Qingming picked up a piece of pig's blood and put it in Ji Wan'er's bowl.
"Wife, you should eat more and replenish yourself."
Ji Wan'er blushed and retorted, "Mother asked you to eat more. You should replenish yourself properly, husband."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Qingming tilted his head slightly and leaned closer to Ji Wan'er, whispering in her ear, "Do I really need replenishment? Doesn't my wife know that?"
In the misty atmosphere, Ji Wan'er's face flushed even more.
When it was time to tally the accounts in early September, Ji Wan'er was pleasantly surprised to find that the monthly income of the three shops had reached 180 taels, an increase of 30 taels compared to before.
At this rate, it was likely to reach 200 taels soon.
As the business turnover increased, Ji Wan'er's enthusiasm for her work also increased.
When Nanny Dong came over, Ji Wan'er excitedly shared her joy with her.
Nanny Dong was a little anxious to see her daughter still busy with shop matters.
"The exam results should be announced soon, right? Have you asked someone to inquire in the prefectural city?" Nanny Dong asked.
Ji Wan'er had no idea when the results would be announced. Xiao Qingming hadn't mentioned it, so she hadn't sent anyone to check. Even if she knew, she wouldn't be able to go to the prefectural city.
"No, I haven't."
Seeing her daughter being so nonchalant, Nanny Dong gave her a slap and said, "How can you be so calm? This is a big deal. If Qingming passes the exam, he will become an official, and you will be an official's wife. It's completely different from your current status."
Ji Wan'er knew that Xiao Qingming would pass the exam, and to her, it didn't make much of a difference. She had been nothing before, so she didn't feel much. Now she was the wife of a scholar, but she still didn't feel much.
These were just things that Xiao Qingming's status brought to her.
"It's still about eating three meals a day, there's not much difference." Ji Wan'er replied.
Seeing her daughter's attitude, Nanny Dong first became worried, then let out a long sigh.
"I don't know whether to be happy or worried seeing you like this."
Ji Wan'er smiled and poured a cup of tea for Nanny Dong. "Nowadays, I can support myself, and Qingming has passed the exam. It should be a cause for celebration."
Nanny Dong took a sip of tea and calmed down. She said, "Because of this matter, I haven't slept well for the past few days, and your father is worried every day. But you, you eat well and have a rosy complexion."
Ji Wan'er smiled again without saying a word.
"In the past, I hoped you would marry someone capable and become an official's wife. You were also like that, proud and wanting to marry a wealthy and powerful man to live a good life. It would have been best if you could live like you did in the capital when you were a child..." Nanny Dong paused for a moment and continued, "But now, your attitude has become more calm. You don't force your husband to strive for success, and you don't care much about these things."
"Mother, there are different ways of living, and being happy is the best." Ji Wan'er replied.
Nanny Dong looked at her daughter again and saw that she truly didn't care. She said, "Well, being happy is the best. If you're happy, then I can rest assured. If you don't want to check, then don't. If your husband really passes the exam, there will be people coming to share the good news."
Ji Wan'er nodded with a smile, "Exactly."
Although Ji Wan'er didn't care, Nanny Dong's words still reminded her. That night, as they went to sleep, she glanced at Xiao Qingming.
She had been looking at him so frequently that Xiao Qingming had long noticed. He turned around, embraced her, kissed her forehead, and asked in a low voice, "Aren't you feeling well?"
Ji Wan'er: ...
What is this man thinking all the time!
"Can't I just look at you?"
"How could that be? I wish my wife would keep her eyes on me every day and not look at anyone else." Xiao Qingming said.
Ji Wan'er laughed.
"Do you have something to tell me, Madam?" Xiao Qingming understood.
Ji Wan'er responded, "Yes. Do you know that the exam results will be announced in the next few days?"
Regarding the exam, she hadn't asked since Xiao Qingming returned, and today was the first time she brought it up.
"I know," Xiao Qingming replied.
He liked the current situation very much. In the past, every time he finished an exam, his family would ask how he did. His grandfather would ask, followed by his grandmother, and then all the elders and juniors in the family would ask. When he went out, people in the village would ask as well. When he returned to his study place, his teacher and classmates would ask.
Being asked so many times, he didn't know how to answer anymore.
And back then, he never passed the exams, so he could always see the disappointment in others' eyes.
As time went on, he didn't want to bring up the topic of exams anymore.
His wife was different from everyone else.
Whether it was the last exam or this one, his wife never inquired about how he did, and she never put any pressure on him. Even though it had been half a month since the exam, nobody had asked him about it. This made him feel comfortable and allowed him to focus on preparing for the next exam.
"Do you want to go and see?" Ji Wan'er asked.
"Do you want to go and see, Madam?" Xiao Qingming asked in return.
Saying that she didn't care about Xiao Qingming's exam results would be false, even if she already knew the outcome from the book. But now that the plot had changed, who knew if there would be any surprises. However, she didn't feel inclined to travel a long distance and squeeze with others to watch.
Seeing Ji Wan'er's silence, Xiao Qingming understood.
"Then let's wait at home."
Upon hearing these words, Ji Wan'er's eyes lit up, and she looked at him.
"You're quite confident," Ji Wan'er said.
"Do you think I won't pass, Madam?" Xiao Qingming asked in return.
This question made Ji Wan'er unsure of how to respond. After pondering for a moment, she said, "How could that be? You will definitely pass."
Xiao Qingming chuckled lightly and said, "It seems that Madam has more confidence in me than I do. I only said we would wait for the news at home, but Madam already knows that I will pass."
Ji Wan'er said, "...Clearly it was you—" She stopped halfway through her words.
No, Xiao Qingming hadn't actually said it. He only mentioned waiting for the news; he didn't say he would pass. But his tone just now clearly implied that he would.
Ji Wan'er raised her hand and pinched Xiao Qingming's waist, asking, "Did you do it on purpose?"
Xiao Qingming grabbed Ji Wan'er's hand.
Ji Wan'er couldn't move her hand, so she kicked him in the leg.
As a result, Xiao Qingming pinned her down.
He leaned in closer and said in a deep voice, "Madam, are you not planning to sleep tonight?"
Hearing this familiar tone, Ji Wan'er's heart trembled. Thinking about last night's passion, she still felt uncomfortable now. She quickly withdrew her hand and foot, wrapped herself in the blanket, and said in a muffled voice, "I'm going to sleep, I'm already asleep."
Xiao Qingming chuckled and embraced her along with the blanket.
Ten days later, the person delivering good news arrived at their home.
Xiao Qingming had passed.
Furthermore, he achieved the top score and became the number one scholar, making him the youngest number one scholar in the history of the dynasty.
Normally, the person delivering good news should go to the Xiao family's village. However, it was well-known in the county that Xiao Qingming studied in the county town and had opened a shop there.
It takes two days on a fast horse to go from the capital city to the Xiao family's village, while it only takes half a day to reach the county town. Which option do you think they would choose?
Upon learning this news, Nanny Dong's heart was filled with shockwaves.
She knew that her son-in-law was talented, but she never expected him to be this remarkable. She had only judged him based on his appearance, thinking he was a steady person who could focus on his studies. She would have been satisfied if he passed the provincial exam as a scholar. Whether he would become a top-ranked scholar was beyond her speculation.
Unexpectedly, not only did her son-in-law pass the provincial exam, but he also ranked first.
The difference between passing the exam and achieving the top rank was considerable; it could be described as a vast chasm.
Nanny Dong was well aware of what it meant to become the top-ranked scholar.
Even in prestigious households like the Marquis's residence, passing the exam alone would be cause for celebration, ancestral worship, and gratitude towards the ancestors. This was because it signified that the offspring had entered the official career path.
But if someone from a family could become the top-ranked scholar, it would not be as simple as a burst of joy at the ancestral gravesite.
The pleasant surprise came too suddenly, and Nanny Dong was momentarily overwhelmed. However, she managed to maintain her composure when facing the people who came to congratulate her, smiling and responding to them.
Late at night, in the silence, Ji Wan'er also looked at the man sitting at the table reading a book.
She couldn't figure out how Xiao Qingming had suddenly become so exceptional.
She remembered that the book mentioned Xiao Qingming's academic achievements before he became the top-ranked scholar were not as outstanding. So when he achieved the top rank in the capital, there were many people gossiping behind his back.
Some said he became the top-ranked scholar solely because of his good looks, while others claimed he achieved it through flattery and sycophancy. There were even those who believed he had an inappropriate relationship with certain influential figures in the court.
Before, she had worried about it. In the book, Xiao Qingming studied hard because of his hatred. Now that the hatred was gone, would he lose his motivation to study?
But the reality proved to be quite the opposite. Without hatred, Xiao Qingming studied even better.
This also proved that Xiao Qingming was indeed capable of studying and had a sharp mind. In the past, he had failed repeatedly, but now he suddenly succeeded. Could it be that he had a sudden breakthrough?
So what was the trigger for his breakthrough?
Ji Wan'er propped her chin on her hand and quietly watched Xiao Qingming.
Unable to hold back any longer, Xiao Qingming paused his writing and looked at Ji Wan'er, who was earnestly staring at him.
"Wife, if you keep looking at me like this, I won't be able to finish this article tonight."
Upon hearing this, Ji Wan'er suddenly realized that she had been staring at Xiao Qingming for so long and quickly snapped out of it. Had she disturbed Xiao Qingming's studying?
She hastily flashed an embarrassed smile at Xiao Qingming and said, "You continue, you continue. I... I'll go to sleep first."
Xiao Qingming chuckled and shook his head as he watched her quickly get into bed to sleep.
While lying in bed, even though she was no longer looking at Xiao Qingming, Ji Wan'er still pondered the question from earlier.
She remembered asking Xiao Qingming multiple times before if she had influenced his studying. And each time, his answer was no, and he even mentioned a few times that she was his motivation for studying.
Could it be true? Was it really because of her?
The original protagonist in the book had stimulated Xiao Qingming, and as a result, Xiao Qingming studied hard. Now, Ji Wan'er hadn't provided any stimulation, yet she was also studying hard. Moreover, she was studying even better than in the book.
Doesn't this indicate that love is more important than hatred?
Just the thought of the significant impact she had on Xiao Qingming made Ji Wan'er unable to sleep out of excitement.
When Xiao Qingming finished writing an article and lay in bed preparing to sleep, Ji Wan'er was still awake.
Every time Xiao Qingming got into bed, his first action was to embrace Ji Wan'er. This time, without him doing anything, Ji Wan'er voluntarily snuggled into his embrace.
Seeing Ji Wan'er take the initiative, Xiao Qingming felt touched.
"Husband, I have a question to ask you."
"Yes, wife, please go ahead."
Ji Wan'er licked her slightly dry lips, grabbed onto Xiao Qingming's clothes, and earnestly asked, "Are you really studying so hard because of me?"
Xiao Qingming's eyes dimmed slightly as he held the person in his arms. Looking at the expectant eyes, he asked in a deep voice, "Does my wife not believe the things I said before?"
Filled with anticipation of validation, Ji Wan'er felt delighted and quickly said, "I believe, I truly believe in you."
Xiao Qingming kissed the rosy lips in front of him and said, "But your words just now sounded like you didn't believe."
"You heard it wrong. I don't believe in anyone except you."
"It's better that way." With that, Xiao Qingming deepened the kiss.
After the kiss ended, Ji Wan'er held onto Xiao Qingming's clothes and murmured, "I didn't dare to believe before. Husband, you are so excellent. How could it be because of me?"
Xiao Qingming squinted his eyes slightly and hoarsely said, "Oh? It seems that my usual behavior hasn't been clear enough. Tonight, I'll let you know just how important you are to me."
Normally, in such situations, Ji Wan'er would definitely push back, but today, upon hearing those words, her inner excitement and joy surpassed her shyness and nervousness. She grabbed onto Xiao Qingming's collar, urging him closer and deepening the kiss.
On this night, the two of them moved in sync, rising and falling together, indulging in each other.
It was the first time Ji Wan'er realized that such an act could bring such immense pleasure. Of course, afterwards, all that remained was exhaustion. She had no idea when she fell asleep or when it ended.
1
All she knew was that the next morning, she woke up at the hour of Si (9-11 am).
Xiao Qingming, who remained composed even after hearing that she had passed the examination, was still sleeping beside her.
Although she was somewhat angry at Xiao Qingming for going too far last night, the thought that his behavior was all because of her, and that her influence on him was far greater than she imagined, made her feel sweet.
With her eyes closed, she reached out and embraced Xiao Qingming, nuzzling against him.
This action woke Xiao Qingming up, and he looked at the person in his arms, raising his hand to touch her dark hair. With his eyes closed, he savored the memories of last night.
Nanny Dong arrived at noon, just as the two of them had gotten out of bed.
Xiao Qingming was busy attending to everything, while Ji Wan'er rested on the couch.
Seeing her daughter's appearance, Nanny Dong understood everything and smiled, her face gaining a few more wrinkles.
"Mother-in-law, please have a seat. I'll have someone bring some food."
Seeing her son-in-law's unchanged attitude from before, Nanny Dong felt relieved. She had come today to congratulate her son-in-law and also to gauge his attitude. Little did she know that many people, after passing the examination and becoming a scholar, would treat those around them differently.
Fortunately, her daughter's husband was not that kind of person and still treated them as before.
However, despite the happiness, as she watched her daughter's weak appearance during the meal, Nanny Dong couldn't help but feel a bit distressed.
Sometimes, having a daughter who is too beautiful is not necessarily a good thing.
After the meal, she quietly spoke to her daughter, saying, "You two are still young, so exercise restraint and be careful with your health."
Ji Wan'er's face turned red, and she shyly replied, "Yes, mother, don't worry. It's not like that every day, just occasionally... occasionally..."
Nanny Dong gave a few more instructions to her daughter before finally leaving.
In the county, it had been many years since they had produced a top scorer in the imperial examination.
Now, suddenly, there was one, and everyone was extremely curious. They all came to gather and observe.
Business in the shops instantly boomed. They were packed every day, from morning till night.
The prosperous trend continued until the end of September.
At the beginning of October, when Ji Wan'er counted the money, she discovered that the three shops combined had earned over two hundred taels of silver.
It had to be said that this was truly the celebrity effect.
Since Xiao Qingming had achieved such an honor, business flourished.
When Xiao Qingming returned, Ji Wan'er took the initiative to give him a kiss and said, "Husband, you're truly amazing."
Seeing the puzzlement in Xiao Qingming's eyes, Ji Wan'er explained the situation in the shops to him.
Naturally, Xiao Qingming was also happy about it. After some affectionate moments between the two, Xiao Qingming went back to his studies.
Although he had passed the examination, Xiao Qingming didn't slack off for a single day. Even on the day of his success, he had been studying and writing articles. Moreover, Ji Wan'er could feel that Xiao Qingming was working harder and harder in his studies. It was more challenging than ever before. She often saw a solemn expression on his face.
It seemed that no matter the time, the higher the level of examination, the more difficult it became, and the more energy it required.
After passing the provincial examination, some people would choose to take the national examination in the following spring, while others would wait for two years to prepare before taking it again.
Xiao Qingming planned to take the examination next year.
If he plans to take the exam next year, it will be in March. At the latest, he needs to go to the capital in February to rush for the exam. Many candidates go to the capital after the Chinese New Year. So, counting from now, there are two months until the New Year, five months until the exam, and four months until Xiao Qingming goes to the capital.
Time is really tight.
Ji Wan'er's role is not to disturb him.
And she improves in terms of cooking.
In the past, Ji Wan'er used to sleep in, but now that she doesn't have to cook every day in the shop, she is not tired anymore. So, every morning when Xiao Qingming wakes up, she wakes up too.
Xiao Qingming has refused a few times, but Ji Wan'er insists.
She and Yun Shuang Zi An need to eat as well, so they also have breakfast every morning, just a little earlier.
Moreover, seeing Xiao Qingming enjoy the food she cooks makes her happy.
Every morning, Ji Wan'er prepares delicious food for Xiao Qingming.
Sometimes, she simmers a pot of chicken soup at night and buys some oil cakes the next morning, or she makes egg pancakes. Sometimes, she makes tofu pudding and serves it with fried dough sticks and soybean residue pancakes. Sometimes, she cooks a pot of lean meat and preserved egg congee.
She knows how to make a variety of dishes without repeating them for half a month.
In addition to breakfast, at noon, Ji Wan'er also prepares four dishes in the kitchen and has them delivered to Xiao Qingming. There are both meat and vegetarian dishes, light and spicy ones, noodles and rice, along with a bowl of soup and a dessert after the meal.
Although Xiao Qingming is working hard in his studies now, it's visible that he has gained some weight.
This may not be noticeable from the outside, but when she holds him at night, Ji Wan'er can clearly feel it. A while ago, she could feel his ribs when he was skinny, but now he has gained some flesh.
From this perspective, feeding Xiao Qingming is also beneficial to herself.
With Xiao Qingming being taken care of, Ji Wan'er continues to ponder about her own shop business.
Although the business in the shop has become more popular due to Xiao Qingming's reputation, she doesn't stop there. She believes that there are still many areas that need improvement.
For example, the menu in the newly opened shop should not be exactly the same as the menu in the old shop.
Because the old shop is closer to the school, while the newly opened shop is closer to the dock and the escort agency. The customer base of each shop is not consistent.
Therefore, Ji Wan'er has improved the menu of the new shop according to the taste and habits of the customers.
This approach has had a significant impact on the shop, and the income gradually increased.
By the end of the year, the monthly income had reached four hundred taels.
Now the family has accumulated nearly two thousand taels, and in addition, Xiao Qingming passed the exam this year. It's a year of abundant harvest. The family should have celebrated, but Ji Wan'er didn't do so.
"Mother, Xiao Qingming has been studying very hard lately. Let's just have a simple meal for the Chinese New Year. We can gather again after the spring exam next year," Ji Wan'er said.
Nanny Dong sighed and said, "It's not only Qingming, your younger brother is the same. He will participate in the provincial examination next year, and he has been studying so hard recently that he almost forgets to eat and sleep. I don't know if he can pass the exam..."
Ji Wan'er held Nanny Dong's hand.
"Mother, you shouldn't put too much pressure on yourself. We'll take care of them. Whether they can succeed in the exam or not depends on themselves."
"You're right."
However, not having a big celebration doesn't mean they won't gather. On the night of the Chinese New Year's Eve, everyone still gathered together.
Nanny Dong first showed concern for the two scholars and then encouraged Zi An, who had just started studying, saying, "Zi An, you've grown so quickly, almost becoming a young adult. In the future, you should study hard, just like your elder brother."
Zi An glanced at his elder brother and nodded emphatically.
Then, Nanny Dong turned her attention to Yun Shuang, who was becoming quieter and quieter.
"In the blink of an eye, Yun Shuang has grown into a young lady. In a few more years, she'll be talking about her future husband's family."
As soon as these words were spoken, Yun Shuang's face immediately turned red, and she lowered her head without saying a word.
"I heard from Madam Qian, who works at the shop, that Yun Shuang's craftsmanship is excellent, and her embroidery skills are nearly at a professional level," Nanny Dong said.
Ji Wan'er looked at Yun Shuang, who was now just slightly shorter than her, with a face full of satisfaction and said with a smile, "Yes, she has always had a knack for handiwork since she was little."
Then, Nanny Dong and Ji Wan'er began discussing the matter concerning Yun Shuang.
As they were talking, Yun Shuang suddenly stood up and solemnly said, "Sister-in-law, I feel like I've learned enough. I don't want to continue studying. After the Chinese New Year, I want to start doing embroidery and sell my works."
When Yun Shuang said this, Ji Wan'er and Nanny Dong exchanged a glance and understood Yun Shuang's intention.
Ji Wan'er refused Yun Shuang, saying, "There's no need to rush. You should continue learning. Madam Qian came from the palace, and her craftsmanship is excellent. Those skills cannot be learned in just one or two years."
Feeling rejected, Yun Shuang spoke softly, "But I'm already better at embroidery than others and can start earning money."
Although the family's situation had improved, Yun Shuang still felt like she was useless. Sister-in-law sent her to learn the craft, and she had to pay a monthly fee, which was similar to the cost of her younger brother's education. She didn't want to spend the family's money anymore; she wanted to earn her own money and show filial piety to her sister-in-law.
She truly believed that her embroidery skills were already very good.
"You're still young, learn a little more. The family doesn't lack this money, let's talk about it in a few years," Nanny Dong also advised.
Nanny Dong's thoughts were that her son-in-law was already a successful candidate in the imperial examinations, and most likely he would pass the next year's exam and become a Jinshi (the highest-ranked scholar). By then, the family's situation would naturally be different. Her son-in-law would definitely receive an official position, and Yun Shuang would become an official's daughter.
If it were an ordinary woman from a common family whose embroidery works became known outside, it would be acceptable. However, if it were the daughter of an official, if her skills were widely recognized, it would harm her reputation.
Nanny Dong wondered if her daughter could think of these things.
With these thoughts in mind, Nanny Dong looked at her daughter.
Her daughter didn't look at her. Nanny Dong thought that regardless of whether her daughter understood or not, she should advise her a bit later.
At this moment, Ji Wan'er said, "Do you think our shop's business is good?"
Yun Shuang was puzzled why her sister-in-law would ask such a question, but she answered truthfully, "It's good."
"How good is it?"
"It's one of the best in the county. Many people know about our shop."
"Then, think about why our shop's business has surpassed others in such a short time."
"Naturally, it's because of your skills, sister-in-law. Your craftsmanship is excellent, and the food you make is delicious, so everyone comes to our place to eat."
"Then think about it, if it were someone with poor craftsmanship, would the business be as good? Would they be able to earn as much money?"
As the conversation reached this point, Yun Shuang gradually understood her sister-in-law's meaning. She shook her head in embarrassment.
"As the saying goes, sharpening the knife doesn't hinder the cutting of firewood. It's a good thing that you want to earn money and support the family. However, if you complete one embroidery piece now, you may be able to sell it for two taels of silver. But if you study for another year, perhaps you can sell them for ten taels, twenty taels, or even more, just like your master. If it were you, which option would you choose?"
Yun Shuang looked up and looked at Ji Wan'er. "Sister-in-law, I..."
"I know you are a sensible child. If you want to earn money, then study diligently under your master and don't disappoint my expectations of you."
Yun Shuang nodded heavily, silently vowing to work even harder.
Nanny Dong, seeing her daughter's response, didn't say anything more. She felt that her daughter's thoughts were sometimes different from ordinary people, but surprisingly good.
Embroidery works and embroidered products were not the same.
If Yun Shuang could excel in this field in the future, it would be impressive, and when the time came for marriage, the prospective groom would also take notice.
Turning disadvantages into advantages was a good approach.
Soon, the sound of firecrackers resounded from all directions. The new year had arrived.