Chapter 629 - 187 Accident
The spring rain that had persisted throughout the day finally ceased at night.
Recently, tranquility prevailed in the Jiang Residence, as if nothing had ever happened. Jiang Youyao had been found, mad indeed, but her madness was of a quiet kind. The old madam kept Jiang Yuanbai close, caring for him daily with such attentiveness that she scarcely had a moment to spare. The two brothers, Jiang Yuanbai and Jiang Yuanping, were busy with government affairs, returning home late every evening.
In the third branch, Lady Yang entered with several bolts of new fabric and immediately called out, "Yu Yan, come here."
Jiang Yuyan emerged from behind the door, carrying a lamp that cast a dim light in the room. The fabrics in Lady Yang’s hands were elaborately patterned, and she held them up against Jiang Yuyan’s figure, saying, "You can have two new outfits made from these."
"Mother, I can’t wear these..." Jiang Yuyan shrank back slightly. Her looks were plain, and she had always dressed simply, disliking ornate clothes as they only accentuated her ordinary appearance. Lady Yang, however, seemed oblivious to this, insistent on adorning her with all manner of fine and imposing garments.
"There’s nothing you can’t wear," Lady Yang glared at her, "You’re always dressed in that drab gray, what kind of image does that present? In a few days, I’m taking you to a banquet. You should look pretty, since you’re of marriageable age. If the ladies see you looking attractive, they will surely take more notice of you. Don’t you want to marry a decent husband?"
Jiang Yuyan nodded meekly without answering. She dared not argue, as she had to heed Lady Yang’s words. However, Jiang Yuyan understood that she couldn’t compare to Jiang Li, who had a Father serving as Grand Secretary, nor was she as pretty as Jiang Yue. Given her lineage and appearance, there was not much to be proud of; the prospect of marrying her Ideal Gentleman seemed unlikely.
"Mother, where did these floral fabrics come from?" asked Jiang Yuyan.
"Your sister sent them," Lady Yang replied. "In Marquis Ningyuan’s Mansion, they have plenty of fabric. She chose two bolts to send for your dresses, always thinking of you, she is. You should learn more from your sister."
Jiang Yuanxing walked in from outside just in time to hear Lady Yang scolding Jiang Yuyan. Like Lady Yang, who was fierce, Jiang Yue was shrewd, while Jiang Yuyan shared Jiang Yuanxing’s simple-mindedness. Thus, Lady Yang was always displeased with Jiang Yuyan, urging her to emulate Jiang Yue. But how could one easily change their nature?