Broken Branches

By Yang Liu

    Gu Rulan's family has fallen through the cracks, and she is sold into the Zhu family as a maid.
    The Zhu family is luxurious and grand, but unfathomable, a place more frightening than the dynasty.
    Rumor has it that the second master of the Zhu family is gentle and handsome, with a gorgeous face, an exiled immortal-like figure. His power spreads over the eight counties of Yongzhou, almost monopolizing the south of the Yangtze River. The people mentioned him, both in awe and worship, not dare to say a word.
    The third son of the Zhu family is a flirt, and the maids in the house avoid the evil star.
    Zoran is a beautiful woman, she knows that it is difficult to protect herself, so she is cautious in everything. However, despite how careful she was, after staying in the Zhu Mansion for a while, she was still targeted by the third son of Zhu.
    On that day, the sky was dark, and the wind and rain were wrapped in thunder and lightning.
    She was breathing unsteadily and stumbled out of the third son of Zhu's house, falling right at the feet of the second master of the Zhu family.
    The second master of the Zhu family had a pace, and looked at her faintly out of the corner of his eye.
    Zoran was desperate and begged him in desperation, "Please save me, Second Master ......"
    He lowered his eyes to look at her for a moment.
    His voice tinged with a thin smile, lifting her chin: "Saved you, how do you return?"

• Language: English
• Publisher: Yang Liu
• Release date: Jun 9, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201002435

Book preview

Chapter 2 Where is this taking her?

The next day, Nanny Wang came to the yard to select maids.

Several of the outgoing ones were assigned to Third Young Master's yard, some of the more upright and prudent maids went to Old Madam Zhu's yard, and Usnea was assigned to Third Lady's yard.

Rou Lan and the rest of the lesser-looking maids were assigned to the backyard to do some chores of washing clothes and sweeping.

There are good and bad places to be allocated, and it is naturally easier to be allocated to the master's yard than to do rough work. Therefore, after Nanny Wang left, some of the maids were happy, while others complained.

Among them, Rou Lan was assigned to wash clothes, but it was beyond everyone's expectations. There is a reason for the distribution of these affairs, and those with the most inferior appearance will be assigned to do the rough work, but Roulan...

Numerous maids discussed leaving, while their eyes drifted towards Rou Lan, and there were all discussions.

Rou Lan, who everyone was talking about, was very calm.

Because of what happened yesterday, Roan had already guessed in her heart that she would be assigned to do rough work, but she didn't care. For her, it was much better to go to work in the backyard than to enter the master's yard and work tremblingly under the master's eyes.

Among the maids who were walking out, Song Luo hurried over and took her hand, Rou Lan, why are you being assigned to wash clothes? You are weak, and you don't look like you're ready for rough work. The person who was assigned to Huanyi is stronger than you, but you...how could you...

Speaking of this, Songluo suddenly recalled yesterday, her face became ugly, I know, it must be the ghost of that Wu mama! I asked you to wash clothes, didn't I mean to toss you? I'll go to Wang mama Say it again, and transfer you to another place!

It's alright, I'm willing to do this instead. Rou Lan grabbed Song Luo, smiled at her soothingly, and continued, But you went to the third lady's yard, remember to be careful with your words and deeds, and be careful in everything. .

With such a straight-forward personality, it is not easy for Usnea to survive in such a deep house.

Song Luo was stunned for a moment, and immediately held her hand, I know, don't worry, the third lady is much better than the second lady. According to my inquiries, the third lady is gentle and easy to get along with. There is only a seven or eight-year-old young master, nothing will happen, but you have to worry about yourself!

While talking, the rest of the maids had already packed up and came out.

Seeing that Songluo was still talking to Roulan here, one of the maids with Danfeng eyes turned around and sneered: Yo, are you still reluctant? I don't know who said in the yard yesterday that everyone is Maid, what is the distinction between the noble and the low, and the high and the low will come out today?

Anyone who can serve in the master's yard is not much nobler than a lowly maid who does rough work? After that, the maid covered her mouth and giggled.

Donglian, stop talking... let's go, it's time to go to the old lady's yard. Standing beside Cong Ping, she murmured.

Dong Lian looked back at Cong Ping, What's the hurry, I haven't said goodbye to people yet. After saying that, she looked at Rou Lan and Songluo, and sighed deliberately, Some people , don't think that by virtue of With a charming face, everything will go well. The result of this distribution, what kind of person should be where, isn't it already predestined?

Usnea was burning with anger, her eyes were about to burst into flames, You...

Okay, Cong Ping, we should go, we are the maids in the old lady's yard, it's time to serve the old lady. Dong Lian looked at Usnea, smiled coquettishly, and deliberately emphasized some of the words. Hearing the sound, he turned around and left.

Cong Ping cast a glance at Roulan and Songluo, but still didn't say anything, she lowered her head and followed silently.

The other maids who were watching the fun saw that the fun was gone, and they left with their burdens one after another.

This Donglian is so deceiving! What, do you think that if you go to the old lady's yard, you will be noble? With her appearance, she might be kicked out by the old lady one day! Songluo stomped her foot hard. Hair stood up in anger.

Rou Lan smiled, Usunuo, you can go too, the third lady is still waiting for you to go.

Songluo just wanted to say to stay for a while, but the time was really delayed, she frowned tangled, thinking for a moment, she had to say to her: Rou Lan, you have to take care, if there are other maids bullying you in the future, you will Come and tell me, I will help you!

Rou Lan warmed her heart and nodded, Okay.

At this moment, the two maids next to her, who were also assigned to the third lady's courtyard, spoke out and urged Usnea. Seeing that she couldn't drag her on, she had to let go and leave with them.

There were only Roan and a few other maids in the yard left in the yard. Roan had no baggage to pack, so she waited outside the yard.

After a while, several other rough maids came out of the room. The plump maid at the front squinted at Rou Lan, and said with a smirk, Why, you still don't want to leave? Go to work!

After he finished speaking, he sneered and strode away with a few maids behind him, leaving Rou Lan alone in the yard.

The maids who were assigned to wash clothes had to do the most work, and the living conditions were definitely worse than other maids. They also entered the Zhu Mansion together. The other maids went to the master's yard, but they had to do dirty work, so they were naturally suffocated.

Rou Lan didn't say anything and followed.

When they arrived at the place where the Huanyi maid lived, it was a large shop, and the plump maid Fenmei led the way in first, looked around, pointed to the largest bunk and said, I want this place, you can choose the rest.

The voice fell, and the maids who followed Fenmei quickly rushed to choose a position.

When Rou Lan arrived, there was only the smallest bunk left.

She had no burden to put away, and was a little tired. She had no problem with the bunk, so she walked straight over and sat down in the corner to rest with her eyes closed.

When Rou Lan passed other people's bunks, a soft and elegant fragrance swept across her face.

Even though she was the same woman, Fenmei's eyes followed involuntarily, she stopped jealously for a long time on Roulan's fair and beautiful face, she slipped down, and saw that her waist was too full to be grasped, and her figure was slender, even though she was wearing the best clothes. Ordinary maid costumes also have a unique sense of beauty, which makes them more and more jealous.

The appearance of these maids can only be considered to be seen, and even if some of them are more handsome, their figure is definitely not so good.

But why does this fox look good everywhere?

The other maids saw Fenmei staring at Rou Lan with a bad expression on her face, and looked in the direction.

Jealousy flashed in one of the maids' eyes, she walked over and lowered her voice, and said to Fenmei, Sister Fenmei, at first glance, that woman is naturally seductive, and she must be restless, but since she was also assigned here, she must be I can't get out, but here is Sister Fenmei, you have the final say, are you afraid that the woman will find the flowers?

After Fenmei heard this, her face became better.

makes sense. At this point, isn't this Hu Meizi at her command?

Just as Fenmei sneered, a shout suddenly sounded outside the house, The one inside, come out quickly!

Hearing this voice, Fenmei and several maids hurriedly stayed out of the house.

There was a small servant standing outside, and when he saw them come out, he pointed to a pile of dirty clothes that had been sent to the ground, with no expression on his face, Are you new here? These clothes will be washed and aired for you today. Do you hear? These are all sent from the second lady's courtyard. Every piece of clothing is very expensive. You all take care of me. If you dare to wash one piece, you will be punished!

It turned out to be the people in the second lady's courtyard, no wonder they were so arrogant. If it were the servants and maids in other courtyards, they would not be so mean.

Judging from what Mother Wu said before, this little servant should be running errands in the Second Lady's Court, and his name is Fu Xian.

Hearing what Fu Xian said, all the maids had to swallow their anger. Even if he is not angry, so what, now that Zhu Fuming is in charge of the second master, who would dare to have a bad attitude towards the people in the second lady's courtyard?

After Fu Xian finished speaking, he was about to leave, but when he turned around, he suddenly saw something out of the corner of his eye, and quickly turned back to take a closer look.

That—you, you come out. Fu Xian stared at Rou Lan, who was standing at the back, his eyes were straight.

Fenmei and the others turned their heads to look at Rou Lan, Rou Lan was startled and called herself for some reason, but she went out anyway.

Fu Xian only knew that there were some maids in the house today, all of them were good looking, but those with a little beauty were picked out of the master's yard. He thought that the maids here were not very good, but he didn't expect to see one. So beautiful.

Wearing such coarse clothes, it is difficult to hide the graceful figure, if...

What's your name? You also work here? As soon as Roan walked out, Fu Xian's eyes were even more presumptuous, almost sticking to Rou Lan's body.

Rou Lan felt uncomfortable in her heart, lowered her eyes, and said restrained: Slave Rou Lan.

Fu Xian grinned and looked at her up and down, This is it, this is it... Rou Lan, right, do it well, if you do it well, it will benefit you in the future. After speaking, she actually wanted to touch Rou Lan. hand.

Rou Lan immediately lowered her head and stepped back, avoiding Fu Xian's hand, Yes.

Fu Xian felt a little embarrassed in front of everyone, so he had to cover up: Okay, then you can go to work.

Before leaving, Fu Xian's eyes lingered on Rou Lan again, and then he left unwillingly.

Forget it, don't rush it for a while, it will take a long time in the future, anyway, this girl is in this robe's yard, can't get out, he can only watch and can't touch?

Fenmei's face was very bad, she gave Roan a vicious look behind her back, she was indeed a fox who seduced men wherever she went.

After Fu Xian leaves, everyone will start to work.

Several piles of clothes were piled up in the yard, and the maids went to get the clothes in wooden tubs, and then took them to the other side where there was a water source to wash them.

Rou Lan also took a wooden tub to put clothes on, but when she got up holding the wooden tub and was about to go next door, the road was blocked.

Immediately, the tub in his hand was taken away by one person.

Fenmei threw the tub that she had snatched aside, pointed to another tub on the ground that was piled high with clothes, and said to her arrogantly, You wash this.

Rou Lan glanced at the dirty clothes that were about to overflow from the tub, paused, and looked up at Fenmei.

Obviously she didn't speak, but Fenmei felt uncomfortable by her calm eyes, and her heart was full of fear, so she could only raise her voice fiercely: Didn't you hear? I'll let you wash that basin!

At this moment, a voice suddenly came in—

What's the noise? It's so loud, if it disturbs the master, can you afford the consequences?

Everyone followed the sound to look over, only to see Wang Mama with a sullen face, standing at the gate of the courtyard.

The maids were all startled, and hurriedly dropped the work in their hands and came over, standing upright.

Mammy Wang is the mama who is in charge of affairs in the backyard. They are all under the control of Mammy Wang, and they dare not disrespect.

Fenmei didn't expect Mammy Wang to come at this time, so she hurriedly retracted in fright, smiled and called out, Mother Wang.

Madam Wang walked over slowly.

She had been in the backyard of Zhu's Mansion for so long, she had seen these things a lot, and she knew what happened at a glance.

Seeing Roulan drooping her eyes, Mammy Wang smiled dispassionately and looked at Fenmei, I said this morning, do your duty well, don't make extra troubles, and forget it so quickly? So loud? , I'm not afraid of arguing with the master. It's called Fenmei, right? Okay, I've handed over all these clothes to you today, you can't have dinner before you wash them. Others are not allowed to help.

Fenmei had thought about the wording of the shirk, and was about to put all the faults on Roulan, but she didn't know that Wang Mama punished herself without asking anything, and her face turned white with a swoosh.

She washes so many clothes by herself? ! How can this be washed! Fenmei immediately lost her mind, knelt down in a panic, and begged for mercy: Mother Wang, this slave is not intentional, please forgive the slave!

The maids standing at the back all lowered their heads in trembling, not daring to speak.

Mammy Wang has always been unselfish in managing the affairs of this backyard. They have heard of it before, but now that they have met it, they are truly afraid.

Begging for mercy to no avail, seeing that there was no room for recovery, Fenmei fell to the ground with a sad face, her face pale.

Seeing that things had calmed down, Mammy Wang turned to Rou Lan who was standing beside her, looked her up and down, and said lightly, Come with me.

Rou Lan was stunned for a moment, then raised her eyes to look at Wang Mama.

Where is this taking her?

Madam Wang didn't say much, and looked away, Let's go, the second lady wants to see you.

Chapter 3 Third brother, let go.

Rou Lan didn't know why the second lady wanted to see her. She had heard Song Luo say that the second lady was the most difficult master to serve in the backyard. The romantic third son Zhu Yan was her only son.

Because the eldest master passed away, the big house was vacant, so now the second master has one room, but in recent years, the second son of the big house, that is, the second master Zhu Ci has gradually grasped the power in the family, which is quite a bit of a rivalry with the second master.

Mammy Wang led the way, Rou Lan followed behind. On the way, she passed through several verandahs, and saw the bluestone rockery in the yard, the creeks and ponds swaying gently, the white walls and black tiles, and the small bridges and water corridors, like paintings made by splashing ink in the south of the Yangtze River. tasteful.

It is worthy of being the Zhu family in Yongzhou. Even if it is in business, this luxurious style is comparable to the nobles of the capital.

Rou Lan followed Momo Wang around the corner of the yard, and suddenly bumped into a group of people head on.

Wang mama didn't expect someone to come over from the other end. When she saw who was at the front, she couldn't help frowning, Zhao Xi? You're not serving in the third young master's house, why are you here?

Zhao Xi was also startled when he saw Mammy Wang, his eyes flickered uncomfortably, and he hurriedly smiled and said, Mother Wang, I'm just going out to help Third Young Master handle some things, it's fine.

Zhao Xi was followed by a few servants. The servants worked together to carry a wooden shelf, which was covered with cloth, and it was impossible to see what it was.

Madam Wang glanced over, frowned tightly, and scolded the three young masters for nonsense, but she couldn't say anything, she just waved, Let's go, let's go.

Zhao Xi hurriedly responded, and hurriedly greeted the servant behind them and walked around them.

Rou Lan stood behind Mama Wang with her head lowered, and no one noticed her.

Seeing that Zhao Xi was gone, Mommy Wang shook her head, but she turned her head to look at Rou Lan, and seeing that she was drooping her eyes as if she didn't know anything, she felt relieved, Okay, let's go.

Roan clenched her palm tightly, bit her lip and followed.

Mammy Wang's just glance was both an inquiry and a warning. As a maid in a robe, the less she knows about the master, the better. If she just watched it without any precautions, I am afraid it will not end well.

Mammy Wang thought she didn't know anything, but when Zhao Xi brought people over, even if she lowered her eyes and didn't look at it, how could she not notice anything.

When she just passed by, she clearly saw a pink silk sash hanging down from the edge of the shelf of white cloth.

On the day they entered the Zhu Mansion, the maid explained to them everything that a maid needs to know. She recognized that it was an accessory on the servant girl's clothes, and it was of a higher grade than her current clothes, and it was only for the personal servant girl in the master's courtyard.

Contacting the shape under the white cloth, how could she not guess what was inside?

Rou Lan bit her lip and tried her best to endure it, until her eyes were slightly red, and she managed to keep herself calm.

She grew up under the doting of her father and mother since she was a child. The atmosphere at home is harmonious, and she treats all the servants and servants as family members. Where have you seen such a thing?

These three sons are really not human.

The Zhu Mansion occupies a huge area, but after all, it has a head. Mammy Wang took Rou Lan to the second lady's yard and said to her, Wait outside the door first. After speaking, she stepped over the threshold and entered the house.

After a while, someone let her in.

The furnishings in the room were luxurious, Rou Lan was led by a maid, and she went around the two huanghuali screens, and saw a well-maintained and beautiful woman sitting on the Nanmu Tianyun armchair in the center. Mother Wu stood beside the woman, and when she saw her coming, she stared at her badly.

Rou Lan calmed down, bowed her eyes and bowed, Second madam is fine.

Second Madam Xu Shi raised her eyes to look at her, Are you Rou Lan?

Rou Lan responded: Yes.

Xu shi put down the teacup, looked at her for a moment, and smiled faintly, Sure enough, she was born very beautifully. The appearance of this beautiful woman was not even comparable to that of me back then.

Women have the most accurate intuition about women. At a glance, Mrs. Xu saw that this maid was unusual. Not only was her appearance extremely beautiful, her figure was exquisite, but she also had an innate sense of sparseness around her body.

It was obviously her second lady Xu who was sitting on the chair to interrogate the servant, but in a trance, she felt that it was not this maid who was being interrogated, but herself.

How can she endure this, the dignified second lady?

This girl can't stay.

In the long run, it will definitely be a scourge.

I heard that Mammy Wu in my room wanted you to come to serve me yesterday, but you refuted it? Mrs. Xu stared at Rou Lan, her tone slowly cooled down, What's the matter, is it possible that you think come to me? Are you wronged here?

Knowing that she was in trouble, Rou Lan tried her best to stay calm and explained, "The second lady is precious and precious, and the slaves are clumsy.

But Mrs Xu didn't take her words, and sneered: Okay, it's okay to be disobedient? How many maids want to come into my yard, but you just don't want to come?

Mammy Wu, who was standing beside Xu Shi, stared at Rou Lan and laughed silently. Little Hoof, yesterday dared to refute her face on the spot, but today I will tell you to go around without food.

Xu shi didn't want to talk any more, and was about to have someone deal with Rou Lan, when a maid came in outside, Madam, the third young master is here.

Before the maid who reported the report could finish speaking, a young man in brocade clothes and Chinese clothes stepped directly outside the door. His appearance was three-points similar to Mrs. Xu, but his clothes were a little messy. Some grey.

Zhu Yan came over and seemed reluctant, but in the way of Mrs. Xu, he bent down and saluted perfunctorily, Son's greetings to mother.

Xu shi looked over and saw that Zhu Yan came here in the morning in such an extravagant state, and couldn't help but get angry and scolded: Yan'er, what's the matter with you acting like this? You went out again last night and fooled around!

After finishing speaking, Xu Shi's sharp eyes stabbed at Zhao Xi who was following behind Zhu Yan, Zhao Xi hurriedly stepped forward and said with an apologetic smile: No, no, madam, the young master has been staying in the mansion recently to study and lead the family. , I was really diligent and hardworking, and I didn't rest well at night.

Xu Shi took a deep breath and looked at Zhu Yan: Yan'er, is it serious?

After waiting for a while, seeing that Zhu Yan didn't speak, he just looked impatiently at the carved table and chairs beside him, Xu shi understood, and became more and more annoyed, and said without arguing: Yan'er, how can you be so unwilling to make progress? In wine color!

Zhu Yan heard this, he raised his head suddenly, Mother, I haven't been to Wanhualou for a while.

You shouldn't go to that kind of dusty place! Xu slapped the hand on the table with the bright red Kodan, You said you are safe? Well, then explain to your mother, when it's dark today , what was carried out of your yard?

Zhu Yan choked, there was nothing to say, and his expression was gloomy.

Confused, Yan'er! Do you know that people in Yongzhou praise your second brother now, but say that you don't want to make progress. If you like a girl, your mother will pick the one you like and send it to your yard, but last night, even if your mother can take care of you You settle it, but if the news spreads, what will the people outside think of you?

Xu Shi said more and more angrily, Look at your second brother, now your grandmother has handed over most of Zhufu's affairs to him! Your father can't even speak in front of your second brother. It really became your second brother!

Zhu Yan didn't care, and sneered: There is only one second brother in the big room, where can you get your prestige? You and your father are in our second room, and my grandson, my grandmother will not hand over the Zhu family to the second. Brother's.

Speaking of this, Zhu Yan's patience has also been completely polished.

He was about to retire, but at this moment, Yu Guang suddenly noticed a quiet figure beside him from beginning to end.

Zhu Yan turned his head to look over, and then, his eyes suddenly froze, and his eyes lit up.

Which house's maid are you?

Zhu Yan said in his mouth, looked at Rou Lan without any cover, and his eyes lingered on Rou Lan's white neck for a while, then gradually lowered, and it didn't take a moment, and soon raised a smile, Mother Wu, this is also You brought it in yesterday? Why didn't you send it to me?

Although Zhu Yan said these words to Wu Mo, his eyes were still fixed on Roan, like a wolf staring at his inevitable prey.

For a moment, Rou Lan's heart fell into an abyss, and she only felt cold all over her body.

If it was said that Fu Xian's eyes were just uncomfortable, Zhu Yan's eyes were naked | naked and wanton, and he would not give up until the goal was achieved.

Originally, she had heard that the three young masters were really assholes and had a romantic nature. This morning, she witnessed his cruelty with her own eyes, but she did not expect that it would be her turn so soon.

Now she is helpless, what should she do?

Sitting in the armchair, Mrs Xu frowned and said, Yan'er, you can't touch this. If you want a new maid, mother will choose it for you.

Zhu Yan was indifferent, staring at Rou Lan's waist, her eyes gradually darkened, she narrowed her eyes, and suddenly turned around and said, Mother, if you give her to me, my son promises to work hard in the future.

Xu Shi choked, and he couldn't believe it.

She didn't expect that a maid could actually let her son, who has always been unable to hold back, say such words. Where has this happened before? She has tried everything she can over the years to make him obedient!

Thinking of this, Mrs. Xu looked at Rou Lan, and felt more and more that this woman couldn't be kept, and she had to deal with it quickly. She only hooked up Yan'er's soul at one time.

But it was the first time that Yan'er had assured her like this. Mrs. Xu didn't want to say no, she smiled and was about to speak, but a servant girl came in and replied, Madam, the old lady asked you to take the third son over there.

Xu Shi was about to say something out of his mouth.

The old lady wants to see them?

Why did the old lady suddenly call us over? But someone else is there? Mrs Xu frowned.

If nothing happened, the old lady wouldn't let her go with Yan'er. At most, she just wanted her grandson to ask Yan'er to come and have a look. Why did she want to call her today?

The maid didn't know either, so she shook her head, The old lady only told you and the third son to go there.

Xu Shi Si Ning couldn't understand for a moment, so he could only say: I see, I told the old lady's people that I and Yan'er will go over here.

The maid stepped back.

Seeing this, Mammy Wu, who was standing beside the armchair, hurriedly stepped forward and whispered to Mrs. Xu, Madam, now you and the third brother are going to the old lady's yard. Since you don't want to leave this maid, why not take it? She brought her over, the old lady doesn't like this kind of coquettish maid, can't she just kick people out?

Xu Shi thought for a moment and nodded. It makes sense, the old lady has always been eating fast and chanting Buddha, she really does not like such a charming girl, even if it is for Yan'er's sake, she will deal with it.

Yan'er, let's talk about this later. Let's go to see your grandmother first. Mrs. Xu stood up with Wu Ma's hand in hand, slowly stroked her hair, and tidied up her appearance.

Before leaving, she glanced at Rou Lan again, You follow.

Rou Lan lowered her eyes and said in a low voice, Yes.

*

The old lady Zhu likes to be quiet, so she lives in the farthest yard. When Xu and Zhu Yan arrived, there were already maids waiting outside to lead them in.

In the house, above the incense burner painted with gold, wisps of sandalwood were scattered. The furniture in the house was simple and elegant, and Roulan followed at the end, and also entered the house.

There was a voice coming from the inside, and Mrs. Xu looked around, then she raised a smile and entered the curtain.

Seeing the people sitting inside, the smile on Mrs. Xu's face suddenly froze indiscernibly, but it recovered quickly, and smiled at Mrs. Zhu, Is your mother okay recently? Nan Yan brought Yan'er. Look at you here.

The old lady Zhu was approaching her old age, but she was still clear and bright, her full hair was tied up with a wooden hairpin, and she was sitting on a chair at this time, when she saw Xu Shi and Zhu Yan, she smiled kindly, Come here. Ah, sit down first.

Vaguely aware that the atmosphere was not right, Mr. Xu didn't dare to say anything, so he had to lead Zhu Yan to sit down.

Rou Lan lowered her head and stepped aside with the other two maids.

The third brother is here? It's not easy to see the third brother on weekdays.

In the silence all around, the voice suddenly sounded in a low voice, magnetic and casual, very pleasant.

Rou Lan was startled and looked up unconsciously.

Into the eye is a figure leaning on the red sandalwood armchair, like a pine-like figure after the snow.

I have heard people say before that the second master of the Zhu family is extremely handsome.

The rumors are true.

A man in a green robe with a jade crown, tall and straight like a tree, leaning on the red sandalwood armchair beside the table in the center, his hands like jade are extremely slender and the joints are clearly defined. He looks elegant, but not weak at all. On the contrary, he is more restrained and composed than Zhu Yan, and has a stronger sense of strength.

Before Xu Shi and Zhu Yan came in, he had loose eyelids, playing with a celadon cup in his hand, and was listening to Mrs. Zhu's speech. At this time, when Xu Shi and Zhu Yan were seated, he raised his eyes and looked at them, his lips always on the side. With a polite smile.

Roan was stunned.

He is the second son of the Zhu family, known as the congratulations of the second master of the Zhu family.

Zhu Yan sat on the top right seat at the bottom. Hearing this, his face was a little ugly, What do you mean by second brother?

After hearing this, Zhu Ci smiled, Why, third brother doesn't understand?

Zhu Yan didn't understand this, but he didn't expect Zhu Ci to be so disrespectful now. He also exposed his shortcomings in front of his grandmother, his face gradually became ugly, and he forced out a sentence, Yeah, it's really not easy... I haven't been in recent times. How to get out of the yard, the second brother can't see it, it's natural.

The smile on Zhu Ci's lips remained unchanged, and he put the porcelain cup he was playing with on the table and made a light bump.

Madam Zhu suddenly remembered something and looked at Mrs Xu, Nan Yan, you have always wanted the third brother to learn from the second master, but is there such a thing?

Xu Shi smiled and said: Yes, now the second master is in charge of many things in this mansion, and he has to deal with the external business, and the master is not very powerful. It is really hard for only the second master to work hard, so I want to let Yan'er learn. Some of the affairs of the chief family can help Dian Er Ye to some extent.

I just don't know the second master... What do you think? Mrs. Xu looked at the congratulatory speech next to Mrs. Zhu with meaning.

Zhu Ci smiled and nodded, It's good.

Xu's heart was overjoyed, and secretly said that in front of the old lady, this congratulatory speech is not good for Yaner to learn from the family, and looking at the old lady's meaning, she really has the intention to let Yaner slowly take over the affairs of Zhu's family.

However, that being the case, in order to make the third brother study the master's house seriously, I will help the third brother manage the shops under the third brother first. When the third brother completes his studies, the second brother will return it to you as it is. chuckle.

After hearing this, Mrs. Zhu also nodded thoughtfully and looked at Zhu Yan, Also, third brother, during this time, you should pay close attention to learning, and let the second master manage the shops under your name, so you don't want to. I have been in contact with your friends in the arena outside of you.

Xu Shi didn't expect the congratulatory words at all, and things seemed to change direction, and he couldn't help being a little stunned.

And Zhu Yan's face was already ugly and couldn't be more ugly.

The reason why he is able to spend so much now is because he has several shops that his father gave him in his hands. He doesn't need to do any management, and he has a lot of money in his account every month. Where can I get the money? !

Second brother, did you deliberately cut off my money? Zhu Yan asked in a rage.

eyelids, and the smile on his lips was thin and indifferent: If this is not the case, how can the third brother learn to be a housekeeper? Let's not say that your mother expects you to take over the affairs of Zhu's family, just talk about what happened this morning, if you don't accept it. The second brother's shop, I'm afraid it will happen more times in the future.

Third brother, you say, yes or no?

Zhu Ci stared at Zhu Yan, and his slender hands like jade were slowly playing with the celadon cups.

Zhu Yan's face changed suddenly.

He thought that the matter had already been handled by Zhao Xi secretly, and no one knew at all, but why did the congratulations get news? Does he have eyeliner everywhere in Zhufu?

The old lady Zhu on the side obviously couldn't understand what the speech was saying, and looked at the speech in confusion, This morning? What happened this morning?

Zhu Ci didn't answer, looked at Zhu Yan with a smile, Third brother, what do you think?

The cause and effect were connected in an instant, and Zhu Yan understood it as if he had been hit in the head.

The mother originally wanted him to learn to be in charge of the family, but was turned against the army by Zhu Ci. Based on the reason for letting him learn to be in charge of the family, Zhu Ci wanted to take away the shop under his name, but his handle was still in Zhu Ci's hands. Can't say a word!

Zhu Yan gritted his teeth in anger, but he could only squeeze out a smile and said slowly: Nothing happened, then I will trouble the second brother and help me manage those shops.

The congratulatory speech smiled and raised his hand slightly. Immediately, the waiting maids filed in with snacks and tea. At the same time, a maid brought the deed to Zhu Yan, Third Young Master, please.

Xu shi looked at those deeds, and finally came to his senses, her beautiful eyes, which were well maintained without a single wrinkle, were filled with sullen anger, unable to hold back her pressure.

Well, she thought she had won a chance for Yan'er in front of her grandmother, but who would have guessed that Zhuci's strategy would be successful. If Zhuci took away the shop in Yan'er's hands, most of the property of Zhu's family would go to Zhuci's hands. ? !

Thinking of this, Mrs. Xu was even more angry and had nowhere to vent. Seeing the maids serving the cakes one after another, she poured her anger on Rou Lan who was standing next to her. She kept her voice low and ruthless because Mrs. The command said:

What are you still doing! Didn't you see that Brother Yan wants someone to serve you?

Rou Lan lowered her eyes, took a deep breath, and said, Yes.

She walked over slowly, came to Zhu Yan's side, poured a cup of tea and handed it over, trying her best to keep her hands steady, Third Master, please use tea.

Zhu Yan just pressed his handprint on the deed, and was in a very bad mood. At this time, when he saw Rou Lan coming over to serve tea, the hands in front of him were as creamy, white and beautiful, which made people imagine.

Zhu Yan squinted and watched for a long while, then suddenly grabbed Rou Lan's arm, pulled her towards him with force, and hummed, That's how you serve people?

At this time, the other maids prepared tea and retreated, so only Rou Lan was left in the hall. When Zhu Yan's words came out, they immediately attracted everyone's attention.

Greetings put down the teacup and looked up.

However, the moment his eyes fell on Rou Lan, he suddenly paused and his eyes froze.

There was a small birthmark that looked like a peach blossom on the skin on the side of her neck.

Zhu Ci looked at Rou Lan, her eyes slightly deep.

He suddenly recalled a dream that he had repeated every day and night not long ago.

The dream was beautiful, and the woman sobbed softly in a soft voice, the sound was like the cry of an eagle. He couldn't see the woman's appearance, but he only remembered a peach blossom birthmark on the side of her neck, pale pink, against the whiteness of her skin, which he kissed countless times.

On the other side, Rou Lan was already a little panicked. She tried to earn it, but she couldn't. She was at a loss, and her eyes were a little red.

The next moment, the man's low and magnetic voice suddenly sounded behind him, with an imperceptible chill.

Third brother, let go.

Zhu Yan froze and turned to look.

Zhu Ci stared at him, a smile still on his lips, but his eyes were cold.

Chapter 4 What I want, I haven't got yet...

The moment this sentence sounded, the whole room was shocked, and the room was so quiet that you could almost hear needles falling.

Er Ye has always been gentle and elegant, and he is like a jade, and he has never refuted people's face like this on the spot.

Not to mention for a woman.

Besides, the second master of the Zhu family has never been close to women. It is a well-known fact in Yongzhou that there are no women around. How can he help a maid speak now?

Zhu Yan turned his head to meet Zhu Ci's gaze, only to feel that his heart was cold and his face was even worse. He gritted his teeth and said slowly, Second brother, you're just a servant girl.

- What does congratulations mean? He has everything, and even a maid has to fight with himself?

Xu Shi, who was sitting on the side, was also stunned, and the secret thought in his heart was broken, and he looked at the blessing. She wanted to use Madam Zhu's hand to dispose of Rou Lan, but she didn't expect this to happen. Could it be that Zhu Li also fell in love with this girl?

The old lady Zhu was also a little surprised. Only then did she start looking at Rou Lan, looked at Rou Lan carefully, and then looked at Zhu Yan, Third brother, isn't this the girl in your courtyard?

Naturally not.

The old lady Zhu could see clearly, and pointed out the key point in one sentence - this is beating Zhu Yan, since he is not the maid in his courtyard, then he has no reason to hold on to others.

When the grandmother spoke, even if Zhu Yan was reluctant, she had no choice but to shake off the hand holding Roan, her face covered with a dark haze.

Rou Lan hurriedly took two steps back, lowered her head, rubbed her sore wrist, and stepped back to stand.

Looking at the angry grandson, the old lady couldn't bear it, and persuaded her kindly: Third brother, I look at this girl. She should be a newcomer. It's normal for her to be inattentive, so why bother her.

Zhu Yan did not answer. Yu Guangli, Zhu Ci leaned against the desk, staring at him coldly.

Without needing to speak, the overwhelming coercion covered his head, making him extremely uncomfortable and unable to breathe. The resentment in Zhu Yan's heart became more and more intense, and suddenly stepped forward and knelt down, saying to Mrs. Zhu, Grandmother, Sun I beg you to give this maid to your grandson.

The old lady Zhu was stunned for a moment, but she didn't expect Zhu Yan to be so solemn, and quickly said: Third brother, what are the family doing while talking and kneeling, get up quickly!

But after speaking, seeing Zhu Yan motionless, the old lady Zhu had no choice. After thinking for a moment, she sighed, Third brother, but this is absurd, you have enough maids in the yard.

She treasures this grandson, and she always gives whatever she wants. There are also the most maids in the house. Could it be that there is still a lack of this maid?

Zhu Yan said with a sullen face, The grandson is willing to dismiss all the old maids. No matter what, he has to settle for this maid. What kind of Yaner Meier was in the original courtyard, how could it compare with this superb one?

Mrs. Zhu didn't expect Zhu Yan to be so stubborn, she looked at Roulan again, and she understood the reason.

Really beautiful, extraordinary beauty, one more point is too little and one point is weak. It was the first time she saw such a beautiful girl at her age. No wonder the third brother liked it.

Seeing the baby grandson kneeling motionless, the old lady Zhu still softened her heart. That's all, it's just a maid, and brother Yan is kneeling and trying to dismiss the original servants, why don't you just...

The old lady Zhu looked at Zhu Ci and said tentatively, What about the second master? It's just a maid.

Rou Lan stood in the corner with her head lowered, bit her lip, her curled eyelashes trembled low, and crystal water droplets faintly fell.

After a while, she closed her eyes, her fingertips sank into the palm of her hand, and it was painful.

Everyone has to push her into the wolf's den.

As long as the second master nodded, she would have no chance to save her.

In the silence, the congratulatory speech that everyone was watching was still that casual and relaxed expression.

His eyes were as black as lacquer, and his long body was leaning against the red sandalwood table.

Along with his movements, the porcelain cup collided with the table from time to time, making a very slight noise.

The voice is small, but it touches everyone's heart.

Mrs. Xu and Mrs. Wu couldn't help but feel uneasy, staring at the congratulatory speech, for fear that he would say a single word.

After a while, Zhu Ci slowly raised the corners of his lips, stared at Zhu Yan, and said:

What if I don't allow it?

*

Rou Lan still returned to Huan Yi's yard.

All this is like a dream. It seemed that she was only taken away by Mammy Wang for a moment, and was brought back soon after, nothing happened.

But, there is something different.

After she went back, Mammy Wang opened a separate room for her to live in, and her attitude towards her also changed. Her words were very different from her unselfishness at the beginning, and she also took the initiative to relieve her daily routine of washing clothes so that she could take care of herself. rest.

The next morning, Rou Lan walked out of the house and took the tub to put her clothes on, but just as she stood up, the tub was taken away.

The maid holding her wooden tub looked at her with a bright smile: Rou Lan, I'll wash for you, I'll wash for you, you just need to remember that my name is Alan.

Rou Lan frowned, unable to understand. Seeing A Lan walking away happily with the wooden basin, she could only go and refill it.

This time, she just walked to the well, and another maid came over to pick up her wooden basin, Rou Lan, I'll come, I'll come, you go to rest, don't get tired.

Rou Lan was startled, seeing that the maid had already moved neatly and threw the bucket down to fetch water, she had nothing to do, she hesitated for a moment, and had to turn around and leave.

She only took a step when she heard the servant girl behind her hurriedly say: Rou Lan, what do you have to do? Find me next time. My name is Xian'er, and I will definitely help you.

...

At the same time, in an imperceptible corner not far away, two figures looked at it with envy.

One is Fenmei, and the other is the maid named Manxiang who flattered Fenmei that day.

Looking at the scene just now, Fenmei was full of jealousy, her eyes fell on the slender figure, almost a hole was burned, and she said angrily: How could this be? She was taken away by Wang mama once, how can she come back? Is everyone like this?

It's pity that she washed clothes all day yesterday. After she was exhausted, she found out that she had no food to eat. She was so angry that her hands were broken!

Manxiang next to him gritted his teeth: I heard that this Hu Meizi is not only favored by the third son, but also favored by the second master.

What, Second Master?! Fenmei stared.

How can it be! The third son is romantic and addicted to women's sex, it is not surprising to see this fox, but how could the second master also be interested in this fox? That is the second master! There has never been a servant girl in the house, and they had no way to see the second master once they squeezed their heads!

Impossible, you must have misheard the news! Fenmei was determined.

Manxiang glanced at Fenmei, contempt arose in her heart, and her flattering attitude vanished without a trace —a stupid and stupid woman who was punished for washing her clothes on the first day she came here, and is still stubborn now !

If it wasn't for the second master, how could the other maids help this Hu Meizi? Besides, didn't you see the attitude of Wang Ma's mother to this Hu Meizi yesterday? Wang Ma's temper towards Wu Ma's mother has never been so good.

Fenmei was stunned for a while, thinking that it made sense, she couldn't help but panic, What should I do?

Manxiang sneered: What are you afraid of? Sister Fenmei, do you think that the second master will treat her differently? Even if the second master is interested in her, he is only temporarily confused by her skin. Besides, are we just a decoration in this courtyard? It's not that easy for that fox to enter the second master's courtyard.

When Fenmei heard this, she couldn't help looking at Manxiang.

The light was obscured by the corner of the wall, and the shadow fell on Manxiang's face, showing a dash of jealousy.

Fenmei looked at Manxiang and couldn't help being a little scared, but she quickly thought about it, that's right, this Hu Meizi is just a moment of prestige, and she will definitely end in a tragic end. Thinking like this, the fear in her heart fades.

*

The night in September was still hot, and everyone else had fallen asleep. Roan tossed and turned on the couch for a long time, but couldn't fall asleep.

She propped herself up a little, her hair unrolled behind her, loose like a waterfall. Looking out the window, the full moon is in the sky outside, no clouds and no stars.

Roan put on some clothes, got out of bed and pushed the door out.

Outside Huanyi's yard, there is a small pond with a few lotus flowers, swaying gently in the night wind.

The Zhu Mansion was huge and luxurious, and the pond was full of living water. Rou Lan squatted down by the pond, staring at the bright moon on the pond.

A slender figure was reflected on the pool surface. After a while, with a very light choking sound, the pool surface was like a mirror being shattered, and layers of ripples rippled in an instant.

Why are you crying? With the sound of footsteps approaching, a low voice sounded not far away.

Rou Lan was startled, she wiped her face a little helplessly, and followed the voice.

When she saw who was coming, she was stunned for a moment and stood up, thinking that she had read it wrong, Second Master...

Why is the second master here? This ...isn't this the yard of the Huanyi maid?

Not far away, Zhu Ci was dressed in a long white robe with a straight front and stood facing the moonlight. He was as handsome and refined as jade.

Someone bullied you?

The voice was low and casual, and it sounded very nice in this quiet night. Rou Lan shook her head and stood a little awkwardly, No.

After saying this sentence, Rou Lan didn't know what to say, she just felt her heart beating like a drum.

The second master is a gentleman, unlike the third son, she knows it. But for some reason she was even more cramped in front of the second master, and she didn't know how to put her hands and feet.

Zhu Ci looked at her against the light and narrowed his eyes slightly.

Under the moonlit pond, the sparkling pond surface reflected the waves, the woman with the waist like a beam bowed her head, revealing a slender and fair neck, and a pale pink peach blossom embellished on the side of the neck, which was as fat as jade, which was very charming.

There was silence all around, Zhu Ci took two steps towards her.

Rou Lan was too nervous, so the movement in her ears became clearer. She heard footsteps at this time, and immediately took a step back in a panic, such as Xiaolu panicked, Second Master...

Congrats step meal.

After a while, he seemed to have reacted, lowered his eyes, and smiled casually, Go back.

Hearing these words, Rou Lan felt as if she had received an amnesty order, she let out a light sigh of relief, and hurriedly turned around and ran away.

When Zhu Ci saw the petite figure, he flew away and ran into the yard, his eyes a little deep.

run so fast.

Why is he so scary?

Second Master, Second Master, I've finally found you! Behind him, Go Bai hurried over and said, You're too late to deal with things today, why don't you rest at this hour? No... ah, this is a rough servant girl. How did you get here?

The congratulations did not speak. He stood sideways, and the moonlight silently cast a shadow on half of his side face, but he couldn't understand the emotions in his eyes.

Why?

He didn't know either.

He hadn't slept well for a long time.

No matter how busy the directors are during the day, if you feel tired at night, after falling asleep, you can always dream of the pale pink peach blossom , which fills the room with fragrance, lingering all night.

He was talented just now, and he just came out for a walk to get some air, but who would have thought that he had come around here.

Gobai saw the congratulatory speech without saying a word, and scratched his head suspiciously, Second Master?

Go to Bai, Zhu Ci looked at the lotus swaying in the wind in the pond, and suddenly laughed very lightly, Tell me, is there something missing in my yard?

Gobai was even more confused: What's missing? Is there something missing in the second master's yard? He didn't remember anything missing.

There was no response, Gobai was about to ask, but the congratulatory speech had already turned around, Yuebai's clothes moved slightly, and walked carelessly in the direction where he came.

Gobai was confused, and looked in the direction Zhuci had just been looking at, only to see a few lotus flowers, and couldn't help but find it difficult.

What does the second master mean? Is there something missing from the second master?

But the second master is so powerful, how can he get what he wants?

After thinking about it for a long time, I still couldn't understand it. Gobai couldn't help but yawned tiredly, without embarrassing himself, and quickly turned around and went back.

Chapter 5 What does the second master like?

Blessed House.

Three sons' yard.

At first, there was the sound of a woman laughing at the silver bell from the closed room, but after a while, the situation suddenly changed, something seemed to be overturned in the room, smashed the china, and then chaos broke out, and the woman cried The voice came out with a burst of pleading.

Zhao Xi stood outside the house, and he was used to it, and there was no extra expression on his face.

Not long after, with an angry go away, the door of the house was opened, and Yu Meier, who was disheveled, ran out and fled from here. Traces of what happened.

The unbearable atmosphere in the room showed that the owner of the room was in a worried mood. Zhao Xi rolled his eyes and saw Zhu Yanhei appearing behind the door with a sullen face. Not being considerate? That servant called Yan Lin to you, Yan Lin is already waiting in the side room."

Let them all go away!

Hey, yes. Zhao Xi replied with a smile.

Zhu Yan's face was extremely pale.

At his grandmother's place two days ago, he was not only taken away by Zhu Ci and lost face, but also rejected his request for a maid. At that time, his grandmother had obviously let go of that maid to him, but Zhu Ci said The words made the person he was about to get lost, how could he be reconciled?

In the past two days, he was in a very bad mood, and he called all the maids in the yard to serve him, but none of them could compare to that maid! Either it's too flattering, too coquettish and annoying, or it's stupid and stupid and only knows how to please, and it has no taste at all!

Zhu Yan's eyes were bloodshot, his body smelled of alcohol, and his anger had nowhere to show. Thinking of this, he kicked the door heavily.

At this moment, a person walked in from outside the yard, and Zhao Xi, who was standing outside, looked at the person and said, Mother Wu.

Madam Wu walked outside the house with a smile on her face, Third Young Master.

Zhu Yan looked over with a gloomy face.

Wu Momo was unprepared, she was taken aback by Zhu Yan's appearance, she shrank her neck, and hurriedly said with a smile: Third Young Master, Madam, please come over if you have something important to do.

No. Zhu Yan let out a gloomy sentence, without turning his head, he kicked the door blocking the way and walked into the house.

Madam Wu hurriedly said, Third Young Master, it's about Rou Lan's maid.

The voice fell, and Zhu Yan's footsteps really stopped.

Third Young Master, you weren't with the second master at the old lady's place that day... This old slave thinks that it's not right for you or the lady if you continue like this.

But speaking of this, seeing that Zhu Yan's face was even worse, Wu Ma hurriedly smiled and said: No, this is not what this old slave means, Third Young Master, don't be angry! It's like this, a few days later, it happens to be the birthday banquet of Zhu Lao Furen, Madam thought of a plan, and waited until the birthday party... This matter is a bit risky, and Madam wants to invite you to discuss it together. As long as this plan is completed, you will not be able to get that maid?

This sentence successfully moved Zhu Yan, Zhu Yan glanced coldly at Wu Momo, and nodded with a sneer, Okay.

Zhao Xi hurriedly said: Third Young Master, you should change your clothes, otherwise the second lady will be angry when she sees you like this.

Madam Wu consciously retreated outside, Old slave is waiting for the third son outside.

Zhu Yanlue looked at himself and saw that the clothes were messy and there were suspicious red marks on them, so he frowned impatiently, and said coldly, Call Yanlin over to serve.

Yes. Zhao Xi hurriedly went to the next door and asked Yanlin to come over to change clothes.

*

September 22 is the birthday of the old lady.

On the birthday, there will be a big banquet in Zhufu, and many guests will be invited. Because of this, the servants and servants of Zhufu will be busy early.

Although there are many maids in Zhu's house, and the division of labor is orderly and orderly on weekdays, but this birthday banquet is approaching, there are more things to do, and the maids who originally washed clothes will also be temporarily transferred to help with other tasks.

On the birthday of the old lady, I wish the mansion was decorated in red, and the mansion door opened to welcome guests.

In the backyard house, the old lady Zhu, with white hair on the temples, sat with a young girl, laughing at