The days after their wedding unfolded like a vibrant tapestry before Pei Yichen and Jiang Lian'er.
In the early morning, the first rays of sunlight gently filtered through the intricately carved window, casting a warm glow on the soft silk quilt. Jiang Lian'er slowly awakened, while Pei Yichen, already awake, could not bring himself to rise. Instead, he quietly gazed at her, his eyes filled with affection and adoration. As he noticed Jiang Lian'er stirring, he tenderly brushed a strand of hair from her forehead and smiled, saying, “Lian'er, good morning. A new day has begun.” Jiang Lian'er’s cheeks flushed slightly as she playfully scolded him, “You keep staring at me like that; aren’t you afraid of getting tired of it?” Pei Yichen gently took her hand and kissed it, replying, “How could I ever tire of it? I wish I could gaze at you day and night.”
They rose together and made their way to the courtyard. The flowers and plants in the garden appeared particularly vibrant under the morning dew. Pei Yichen accompanied Jiang Lian'er as they walked among the blossoms, occasionally picking a newly bloomed flower to tuck into her hair, smiling as he said, “My wife is already naturally beautiful; with this flower in her hair, she becomes even more captivating.” Jiang Lian'er lightly patted his arm, her face radiating happiness.
At that moment, the maids brought in a carefully prepared breakfast featuring Jiang Lian'er’s favorites: crystal shrimp dumplings, red date and barley porridge, along with various delicate pastries. Pei Yichen attentively served her food, watching her enjoy each bite with satisfaction filling his heart. “Lian'er, eat more; you’re too thin. I want to make you plump and rosy,” he urged. Jiang Lian'er laughed in response, “You’re just being silly! If I really do get fat, you better not complain.” Pei Yichen quickly reassured her, “How could I ever complain? No matter how you change, you will always be the most beautiful in my eyes.”
After breakfast, Pei Yichen prepared to attend court. Before he left, Jiang Lian'er adjusted his official robes and cautioned him, “In the court, things can change rapidly; you must be careful and not act recklessly.” Pei Yichen held her hand firmly, his gaze resolute. “Lian'er, don’t worry; I will be cautious. Take care of yourself at home. If you feel bored, just call a maid to accompany you for a walk.” With that, he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead before turning to leave.
Jiang Lian'er watched Pei Yichen’s retreating figure with a heart full of concern. She understood that he had great ambitions for the world and wished to bring happiness to the people. All she could do was support him silently from behind. So she returned to their room and began organizing the books and documents Pei Yichen usually read, sorting important papers for easier access when he returned.
During her leisure time, Jiang Lian'er kept herself busy as well. She enjoyed practicing calligraphy and painting in the study. Whenever she completed a piece of work, she would show it to Pei Yichen for his opinion. He would always appreciate it sincerely and offer heartfelt praise: “Lian'er, your writing has become more graceful and lively; your paintings are vivid and lifelike. It seems I have married a talented woman.” Hearing this made Jiang Lian'er happy inside but she feigned modesty: “You just know how to flatter me; I’m only passing the time.”
Meanwhile, in court, Pei Yichen gradually made a name for himself through his talent and integrity. He often discussed state affairs with other ministers and proposed many constructive ideas and suggestions that earned him recognition from the emperor. Yet he never became arrogant or complacent because he knew that behind him was Jiang Lian'er silently supporting him; he could not let her down.
As night fell each day after a long day’s work at court, Pei Yichen returned home. Jiang Lian'er would always wait by the door for him; upon seeing him approach, she would rush to greet him. Hand in hand they would enter their room together, sharing stories about their day’s experiences and amusing incidents. Sometimes Pei Yichen would bring back small gifts for Jiang Lian'er—a beautiful hairpin or a rare ancient book—these little gestures made her feel his deep affection.
On one moonlit night, Pei Yichen and Jiang Lian'er found themselves in the pavilion of their courtyard. The moonlight poured down like water over them as if draping them in a silver veil. Pei Yichen gently embraced Jiang Lian'er and gazed up at the bright moon above them. With deep emotion he said, “Lian'er, being able to accompany you through this life is my greatest happiness. I wish to walk hand in hand with you through every spring, summer, autumn, and winter; to witness all the splendor and simplicity of this world together.” Leaning against him with tears of emotion glistening in her eyes, Jiang Lian'er replied softly: “I feel the same way; you are my support in this life. I will always be by your side.”
Their love deepened over time like fine wine aging gracefully—captivating all who witnessed it. They supported each other through thick and thin while writing their beautiful story together—a couple admired by many—adding warmth and romance to this complex world around them.
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