“You know how to blend incense?” An Jiu discovered another side of Chu Dingjiang she hadn’t known about and was curious to learn more.
Seeing her interest, Chu Dingjiang smiled and explained, “In the past, noble families often dabbled in such pursuits. I experimented with it for a while but eventually gave it up.”
“Why did you give it up? It seems quite nice,” An Jiu said as she approached the incense burner. A fresh scent wafted towards her, immediately clearing her mind.
“It can be a distraction from more important matters,” Chu Dingjiang said, bringing her a cup of water. He leaned against the window, watching her, the severity of his expression softening into a faint smile. “There were expert perfumers who specialized in the art of incense. I had no intention of pursuing it seriously; knowing a little was enough. This is called ‘Clear Spirit’ incense. Inhaling it can clarify one’s thoughts, making it popular among strategists. I’ve made some slight modifications to the scent.”
Originally, the incense was quite potent, creating a sensation of coolness rushing to one’s head when lit. Chu Dingjiang had made it gentler.
As An Jiu was about to speak, she suddenly sensed several familiar presences approaching.
Soon, she heard Sheng Changying’s voice, “Careful, take it slow.”
“Mr. Chu, your guests have arrived,” the waiter announced from outside.
“Let them in,” Chu Dingjiang said, setting down his cup.
An Jiu’s eyes brightened.
The door opened, and Sheng Changying entered, supporting Zhu Pianpian. They were followed by Sui Yunzhu, Li Qingzhi, and a young apprentice healer.
An Jiu, having seen Mei Jiu pregnant before, immediately recognized Zhu Pianpian’s condition. “You’re pregnant?”
Zhu Pianpian was in high spirits and playfully affected demurely. “Yes, I’m over six months along now.”
An Jiu paused before asking, “Whose is it?”
A vein throbbed on Zhu Pianpian’s forehead as she gritted her teeth. “Can’t you see the child’s father supporting me right here?”
An Jiu nodded, falling into contemplation.
“My lady, have some water,” Sheng Changying said, pouring a cup for Zhu Pianpian before greeting Chu Dingjiang.
“Please, sit down. We should have a reunion dinner for the New Year,” Chu Dingjiang said.
As everyone took their seats, a commotion erupted outside. Mo Sigui’s angry voice rang out, “Who dares to stop me!”
Hua Rongjian’s arrogant threat followed, “Make way for this young master!”
Chu Dingjiang signaled to Sui Yunzhu, who rose and went to the door. “Let them in,” she said.
The two boisterous men strode in. Upon seeing everyone gathered, Mo Sigui immediately exclaimed, “Chu Dingjiang, you didn’t invite me! You narrow-minded, despicable little man!”
As a physician, Mo Sigui inevitably had intimate contact with patients. Chu Dingjiang could understand and accept this, but it didn’t prevent him from finding Mo Sigui’s presence irritating. His attitude was naturally less than cordial. “Sit or get out?”
Hua Rongjian glared at Chu Dingjiang. “Look at his attitude! Sigui, let’s leave!”
As he finished speaking, he realized Mo Sigui had already seated himself next to Sheng Changying.
Everyone at the table watched as Hua Rongjian stood there awkwardly. He coughed and shouted at the waiter, “What are you standing there for? Can’t you see this young master has no seat?”
The waiter cautiously glanced at Chu Dingjiang and, seeing no objection, quickly responded, “Of course, of course. I’ll bring a seat for the young master right away.”
A seat was added next to Mo Sigui, which pleased Hua Rongjian. He was about to instruct the waiter to move the chair next to An Jiu when Chu Dingjiang’s cold gaze swept over him. “Sit down or leave.”
Mo Sigui laughed gleefully at Hua Rongjian’s predicament.
“The pot calling the kettle black!” Hua Rongjian grumbled as he reluctantly sat down. However, he soon cheered up, realizing he was seated directly across from An Jiu.
Well, this position wasn’t so bad after all.
As the dishes were being served, Mei Yanran finally arrived.
“I was delayed by some matters. I apologize for being late,” she explained.
Mo Sigui expressed his understanding, knowing that at this special time, she probably wanted to have a reunion dinner with her daughter.
Chu Dingjiang stood up and invited Mei Yanran to take the seat of honor.
“Oh, you’re pregnant!” Mo Sigui exclaimed, staring at Zhu Pianpian’s face for a moment before turning to Sheng Changying with a teasing smile. “Well done! Congratulations!”
Zhu Pianpian’s belly was hidden by the table, so those sitting opposite couldn’t see it. However, no one was surprised; Mo Sigui could diagnose a person’s condition just by looking at their face.
Sheng Changying’s face reddened slightly as he cupped his hands in gratitude. “Thank you.”
Mo Sigui clicked his tongue, noticing An Jiu’s thoughtful expression. “Hey, An Jiu, are you thinking about having one too?”
All eyes turned to An Jiu.
She pursed her lips, pondering for a while.
She remembered seeing Mei Jiu’s chubby son, feeling the weight in her arms, so soft and fragile. Usually, she could effortlessly kill a strong man, but holding a baby made her feel that the slightest pressure might break it, softening her heart.