Chapter 55

As soon as he left Rong Lian's courtyard, he ran into Madam He.

"Aunt He, are you here to see Second Brother?" Rong Xi greeted her politely.

Madam He shook her head with a smile, her voice gentle as water. "I came to see Eldest Brother. I only learned you were not in your courtyard after going there."

Rong Xi led her into the study.

Tall-legged desks and chairs were arranged within. Madam He was startled for only an instant. Seeing Rong Xi sit down, she drew a sheet of paper from her sleeve and said, "These are merely my humble thoughts. I ask Eldest Brother to look them over."

"Please, sit," Rong Xi said.

Madam He smiled gratefully and sat with restrained propriety, taking up barely half the seat.

"Aunt He, if you need anything, you may tell Elder Liu," Rong Xi said with a smile, without looking through the paper. "I do not mean to interfere in your affairs."

He worried that Madam He might misunderstand.

Madam He smiled. "Eldest Brother is kind-hearted, and I am deeply grateful. But I have one more presumptuous request, and I hope you will grant it."

"Aunt He, there is no need to stand on ceremony."

Madam He said, "Eldest Brother has seen much of the world. I have lived deep within the household for more than ten years and have only pondered a few foolish ideas. Sorry for the trouble, but please see whether they might be feasible."

Rong Xi's interest was immediately piqued. He unfolded the paper and examined it closely, then abruptly lifted his head to look at Madam He.

He had not paid attention before, but only now did he realize that Madam He's complexion and appearance seemed no different from those of a young maiden.

Her skin