On the twentieth day of the twelfth month, lanterns and festive decorations adorned the Feng Residence. The Yellow Silk Decree rested on an incense altar, and joy filled the household.
Wei Nisheng, however, did not visit.
According to etiquette, on the day the betrothal gifts were delivered, the man did not enter the woman's family home.
Such was the custom.
He therefore only sat briefly in the Small Courtyard at the Wei Residence, listening to Cui Fu report on the festivities at the Feng Residence. He nodded with a contented smile and asked nothing more.
Afterward, Qu Niang brought him a bowl of red jujube porridge. He took two sips, set the bowl down, and rose to straighten his robes and headwear.
"Are you going out, young master?" Qu Niang asked.
"Yes. To meet someone." Wei Nisheng took a visiting card from his desk and slipped it into his sleeve, then added,
"Go to the Feng Residence on my behalf today.
It would be improper for me to visit. If Fu Niang has anything to say, bring her message back."
Qu Niang agreed and turned to change her clothes.
Wei Nisheng stepped out through the courtyard gate. Cui Fu already had the carriage harnessed and ready.
He climbed aboard and said only, "To Riverview Tower, south of the city."
Riverview Tower stood on the banks of the Qinhuai River. Though only two stories tall, it was one of the capital's most renowned teahouses.
From a window seat, one could watch boats coming and going on the river, their sails passing in shifting silhouettes.
The river did not freeze in winter, and grain transport continued as usual, the creaking of oars never ceasing.
When Wei Nisheng arrived, someone was already waiting in a private room upstairs.
The man wore